Pro-X-Travel

Delta Air Lines Expands BusinessElite Service from New York

New flat bed seats now available on all flights to London-Heathrow, U.S. BusinessElite added to Los Angeles, San Francisco

Delta Air Lines today announced a significant expansion of BusinessElite service from New York. The airline has added full-flat beds to all flights between New York-JFK and London-Heathrow, and in September will begin to introduce new BusinessElite service on transcontinental flights between Delta's JFK hub and Los Angeles and San Francisco.

Today's announcement is part of Delta's continued focus on the New York market including the recently announced plans to create a domestic hub at LaGuardia and the re-launch of the revitalized Red Coat program that began at Delta's international hub at JFK.

With the expanded service, Delta will offer customers:

• Fully flat beds with 180 degrees of recline and 77 to 82 inches of legroom in the BusinessElite cabin of all flights between New York and London. The new seats are arranged in a one-two-one configuration, allowing each customer direct aisle access and enhanced privacy.
• Popular cradle-style seats with 150 degrees of recline and 55 inches of pitch in the BusinessElite cabin on all transcontinental flights between New York and San Francisco and Los Angeles. These seats are the same as Delta's business class offering on 757-200ER international flights and offer personal on-demand games, music and movies at every seat.
• Wireless Internet access for both business- and economy-class customers on all flights between New York and Los Angeles and San Francisco by the end of the year.

"Delta's frequent business travelers tell us that the comfort of a flat bed seat with direct aisle access is a must-have on flights to and from London, and that a true BusinessElite experience is critical when flying to and from the West Coast," said Ranjan Goswami, Delta's director of Customer Experience. "Today, we are responding to our road warriors' requests with a significant enhancement of the level of business class service offered from our JFK hub."

Delta customers in Atlanta and Detroit also benefit from the BusinessElite enhancements with full-flat bed seats available on all flights between these hubs and London-Heathrow and Minneapolis routes will be added in September. Routes served with Boeing 777-200LR aircraft already feature full-flat seats, including flights between Atlanta and Dubai, Johannesburg, and Sydney (via Los Angeles).

More information on Delta's new full flat bed seats is available at delta.com.

Since making a strategic decision to build New York into a hub earlier this decade, Delta has made major investments across the tri-state region, boosting its economic impact to more than $13 billion annually. Along with adding more than 30 new international routes at JFK, Delta has created more than 2,000 jobs across the state, invested heavily in New York sponsorships and advertising and completed more than $70 million in facility upgrades at JFK's Terminals 2 and 3.

Delta Air Lines is the world's No. 1 airline. From its hubs in Atlanta, Cincinnati, Detroit, Memphis, Minneapolis-St. Paul, New York-JFK, Salt Lake City, Paris-Charles de Gaulle, Amsterdam and Tokyo-Narita, Delta, its Northwest subsidiary and Delta Connection carriers offer service to 376 destinations in 67 countries and serve more than 170 million passengers each year. Delta's marketing alliances allow customers to earn and redeem either SkyMiles or WorldPerks on more than 16,000 daily flights offered by SkyTeam and other partners. Delta's more than 70,000 employees worldwide are reshaping the aviation industry as the only U.S. airline to offer a full global network. Customers can check in for flights, print boarding passes, check bags and flight status at delta.com.

Virgin America Announces Bag Fee Changes

Virgin America today announced changes to the airline’s baggage fees. Effective for all bookings made on or after Aug. 21, 2009, for travel starting on or after Sept. 10, 2009, the airline has changed its baggage fee to a flat $20 rate for all checked items (excluding the first and second bag for First Class travelers; and the first bag for Main Cabin Select and Refundable Fare travelers).  Previously, the airline’s fee was $15 for these checked items. Virgin America maintains one of the most generous first bag weight limits in the industry – up to 70 lbs.

Beginning today, any Main Cabin guest who books a non-refundable ticket for travel starting on or after Sept. 10, 2009, will be charged a flat rate of $20 for each checked bag ($20 for a first checked bag and $20 for the second through the tenth checked bag).   Guests who purchased Virgin America tickets before today or who book and travel before Sept. 10, 2009, will be charged per the airline’s previous bag fee rate.   Guests can pay checked bag charges when they check in at airport kiosks, on-line or at any airport ticket counter.

The fee changes are as follows:

Fee Changes	New Fee-Main Cabin	New Fee-Main Cabin Select and Refundable Fares	New Fee-First Class
First checked bag,   up to 70 pounds	$20 (previously $15)	No fee	No fee
Second checked bag fee	$20 (previously $15)	$20 (previously $15)	No fee
Third-tenth checked bag fee	$20 (previously $15)	$20 (previously $15)	$20 (previously $15)

Under the new fee rules, First Class guests will continue to receive up to two checked bags for free.  Guests in the carrier’s premium Main Cabin Select service or those who purchase Fully Refundable Main Cabin fares will also continue to receive one checked bag for free.  All weight and size policies remain the same, and the airline’s carry-on baggage policy has not changed. 

Virgin America’s fee structure remains competitive with, or lower, than its major network competitors.  The airline continues to invest in the innovative amenities and low fare, award-winning service for which it is known – including beautifully designed new planes, power outlets at every seat, and Red™ – the most advanced entertainment system in the U.S. skies.  Software upgrades made this month to the touch-screen Red system allow for even greater functionality and speed – and expansion of its already robust entertainment library.  In May, Virgin America became the first U.S. airline to offer WiFi on every flight.

Virgin America flies to San Francisco, Los Angeles, New York, Washington D.C., Seattle, Las Vegas, San Diego, Boston, Orange County and as of Nov. 18, 2009 – South Florida (Fort Lauderdale).  The airline currently offers daily flights from: SFO to LAX, SFO to JFK, SFO to SAN, SFO to IAD, SFO to LAS, LAX to JFK, LAX to IAD, SFO to SEA, SEA to LAX, JFK to LAS, BOS to LAX, BOS to SFO, SFO to SNA and as of Nov. 18, 2009 – SFO to FLL and LAX to FLL.  Virgin America has flown close to five million guests since its inaugural flights in August 2007 and now counts over 950,000 Elevate loyalty program members.

Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts Opens Its 28th Hotel in China

Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts, Asia Pacific's leading luxury hotel group, opened Shangri-La Hotel, Ningbo today - its third property in the Zhejiang province after Shangri-La Hotel, Hangzhou and Shangri-La Hotel, Wenzhou - to complement its current portfolio of 27 mainland China hotels.

Long known as a major trading and shipping hub, Ningbo is situated across the Hangzhou Bay from Shanghai. It is one of China's oldest cities, steeped in history and boasts a number of cultural relics. In modern times, Ningbo has become a major exporter of consumer and electrical products, textiles, food and industrial tools, and is one of China's busiest port cities.

Ningbo is a two-hour drive from Shanghai via the Hangzhou Bay Bridge and a two-hour flight from Hong Kong. The 563-room Shangri-La Hotel, Ningbo is located in the heart of the central business district, at the confluence of the Fenghua, Yuyao and Yong Rivers. As the city's latest luxury hotel, it is a 20-minute drive from the airport and within walking distance of Ningbo's largest shopping area, Tianyi Square, and major tourist attractions.

"The city of Ningbo is fast becoming an integral centre of trade and commerce on China's East Coast. The launch of Shangri-La Hotel, Ningbo is a natural step in strengthening our presence in the Zhejiang province and meeting the needs of increasingly sophisticated business travellers," said Madhu Rao, managing director and chief executive officer, Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts. "More importantly, the opening of Shangri-La Hotel, Ningbo is an affirmation of our strong commitment to maintaining Shangri-La's position as the largest luxury hotel group in China."

With luxury and technology in mind, the guestrooms at Shangri-La Hotel, Ningbo feature broadband internet access, as well as integrated audio-visual equipment. Guests can interface personal electronic devices such as MP3 players, iPods and digital cameras in their rooms - the first hotel in Ningbo to offer such technology. Guestrooms measure from 45 square metres upwards, while suites range in size from 90 to 225 square metres.

Shangri-La Hotel, Ningbo also provides comprehensive event solutions to corporate clients, meeting organisers and the local community. With 5,000 square metres of meeting and banqueting space, facilities include a 2,000-square-metre, column-free grand ballroom - the largest of its kind in the Zhejiang province - and a variety of function rooms suited for any event. In addition, a purpose-built VIP interview room, the first-of-its-kind in the city, offers an excellent facility for guests to hold high-level dialogue.

With a health club comprising the city's largest lap pool (25 metres), a gym and two tennis courts, Shangri-La Hotel, Ningbo is the ideal location for business travellers and local residents to unwind. A fully-equipped and spacious spa with nine private treatment rooms further complements the leisure facilities at the hotel.

Shangri-La Hotel, Ningbo also offers guests a range of dining experiences, including 13 private dining rooms at the hotel's signature Chinese restaurant, Shang Palace, which serves fine Cantonese cuisine and local culinary delights in a contemporary, yet elegant setting. Yi Cafe, showcasing open kitchens and views of the city's three rivers, provides all-day dining. The Lobby Lounge is the ideal venue for meetings and relaxation. Featuring seafood and the most premium cuts of meat, the Lobster Bar and the Grill also provides guests with nightly live jazz performances and chic cocktails.

To celebrate the opening of Shangri-La Hotel, Ningbo, a special introductory rate of RMB818 per night is available for single or double occupancy in a Deluxe room, including daily breakfast. The rate is subject to a 15 per cent surcharge.

American Airlines Announces Changes to Checked Bag Policy for Travelers to, From or Through Europe and India

Changes to Bag Policy Apply to Tickets Purchased On or After Sept. 14

American Airlines is implementing revisions to its baggage policy for customers traveling between certain locations in Europe, India and the United States, including U.S. territories such as Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

The revised policy takes effect for tickets purchased on or after Sept. 14, 2009. The changes apply to transatlantic travelers on any flight operated by American Airlines for travel to, from or through India, as well as the following European countries - Belgium, England, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Spain and Switzerland.

Customers who purchase certain economy class tickets on or after the effective date will be able to check one bag for free and will pay $50 for a second checked bag.

Here are some examples of exceptions for travelers who will not pay any checked bag charge (other exemptions may also apply - see www.aa.com/bag for details):

• American's AAdvantage program members who have achieved AAdvantage Gold, AAdvantage Platinum and AAdvantage Executive Platinum levels, as well as oneworld Alliance Emerald, Sapphire or Ruby members;
• Passengers booked in First and Business Class cabins, as well as those who purchase full-fare tickets in the Economy Class cabins;
• Active U.S. Military personnel traveling on orders or personal travel;
• Active U.S. Military dependents traveling on orders.

Customers may pay checked bag charges at an airport Self-Service machine or at any airport ticket counter.

More information about American's checked baggage policies for domestic and international itineraries is available at www.aa.com/bag.

Southwest Airlines Takes Next Step Toward Wi-Fi

Southwest Airlines and Row 44 are continuing plans to roll out wi-fi beginning in the first quarter of 2010. Beginning this fall, Southwest will be moving to the next step of certifying Southwest's full fleet with plans to begin fleetwide rollout of the Row 44 satellite service in the first quarter of 2010. The airline has been testing the service on four aircraft since Feb. 2009 and has received fantastic Customer feedback on the product.

"We have concluded our testing for inflight wi-fi and are very happy with both the technical performance of the system and the response of Customers who have used it," said Dave Ridley, Southwest Airlines Senior Vice President of Marketing and Revenue Management. "We are pleased to be continuing with our plans to offer satellite-enabled broadband access through California-based Row 44."

"Row 44 is thrilled to be the in-flight wi-fi service of choice for one of the most Customer-focused airlines in the world," said John Guidon, Row 44 Chief Executive Officer. "We are excited about moving forward and delivering Southwest's Customers a rich menu of in-flight connectivity and entertainment options."

During the testing phase, Customers have been utilizing the service for anything from e-mail to streaming video. Those interested in using the service during the test period have had the opportunity to log on to the service via their own personal wi-fi enabled device (laptops, iPhones, wi-fi enabled smart phones, etc). Additionally, the airline has been testing a variety of price points for the service and will continue testing price points through the end of 2009.

Air Canada becomes first North American airline to release an App for Apple iPhone and iPod Touch devices

New application advances strategy to give travelers convenient mobile options

Air Canada today became the first North American airline to release an Apple iPhone/iPod touch application. The free App will make it convenient for travelers with Apple devices to retrieve electronic boarding passes, track flight information in real-time, receive notification of itinerary changes and obtain other details about Air Canada flights.

iPhone Applications now available on iTunes.com! Shop Now!

"Air Canada continues to be an industry leader in offering customers mobile and wireless services that provide real-time information and convenient functions for people who are on the move. We are significantly expanding these options with the release of our Air Canada App, which will enable travelers using an Apple iPhone or iPod touch device to check-in, board and obtain other details about Air Canada flights. This is only the first iteration of our App and we will continue to add new features in response to customer demand," said Ben Smith, Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer. "In addition to our Apple App, Air Canada is introducing more cutting-edge technical innovations that will enhance and simplify our self-service and mobile options for customers who like the freedom of managing their own travel."

Available free on-line from the Apple App Store on iPhone or iPod touch or at www.itunes.com/appstore/, the new App was developed for Air Canada by IBM Canada. It will among other things enable users of Apple iPhone and iPod Touch devices to: keep track of and update all of their Air Canada and Jazz flights from a single location; receive messages and link to their electronic boarding passes; access Air Canada Mobile check-in to select a seat and retrieve an electronic boarding pass; book flights using an Air Canada Flight Pass; rent a car or access other convenient travel links; and find and track any Air Canada or Jazz flight.

iPhone Applications now available on iTunes.com! Shop Now!

Air Canada, recognized as an industry leader in self-service and mobile technology - it was the first airline in the world to introduce 2-D Electronic Boarding Passes in 2007 - is also refining and expanding its existing products to better meet the needs of customers. Among other things Air Canada is:

• Adding new functions to airport kiosks, offering customers the option to purchase an upgrade, reprint boarding passes, and obtain an electronic boarding pass, including at international airports.
• Enhancing its boarding passes to provide more and new travel information such as check-in and baggage drop-off times.
• Offering easy-to-use, personalized flight notification so customers can be automatically updated through their mobile devices about changes to their itinerary. For greater ease, customers can also create a "My Message" in-box on computer and mobile devices to receive all Air Canada communications in a single, convenient location.
• Providing additional mobile detail about the status of Air Canada flights, including gate information, flight status, diversions, arrivals and local weather conditions.

Montreal-based Air Canada provides scheduled and charter air transportation for passengers and cargo to more than 170 destinations on five continents, including 58 communities across Canada and 57 destinations in the United States - by far the most of any carrier within Canada or between Canada and the United States. Canada's flag carrier is the 13th largest commercial airline in the world and serves 33 million customers annually operating a modern fuel-efficient fleet with an average age of just nine years.

Air Canada is a founding member of Star Alliance, providing the world's most comprehensive air transportation network for Canadian domestic, transborder and international travel. Air Canada aircraft offer customers individualized seat-back in-flight entertainment systems with hundreds of hours of complimentary digital audio-visual entertainment. As well, customers can collect Aeroplan miles for future rewards through Canada's leading loyalty program.

In 2008, the readers of Business Traveler magazine voted Air Canada "Best In-Flight Services in North America," "Best Airline for Business Class Service in North America" and "Best North American Airline for International Travel."

EPA Recognizes Southwest Airlines (Dallas & Houston Operations) for Leading Green Power Purchase

Southwest Airlines' Dallas and Houston operations were recognized today by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for its leading Green power purchase and for its support and participation in the Agency's Fortune 500 Green Power Challenge. The Dallas and Houston operations are purchasing nearly 16 million kilowatt-hours (kWh) of Green power, which is enough to meet 30 percent of the facilities' purchased electricity use. Southwest Airlines' Dallas and Houston operations are buying renewable energy certificates (REC) from Reliant Energy.

Earlier this week, the EPA updated each of its National Top Partner lists, highlighting some of America's largest Green power purchasers. Southwest Airlines (Dallas & Houston Operations) currently ranks No. 32 on EPA's Fortune 500 List. Each list highlights EPA Green Power Partners that have completed the largest annual voluntary purchases through July 7, 2009. EPA updates its Top Partner Lists quarterly at http://www.epa.gov/greenpower/toplists/.

Southwest Airlines (Dallas and Houston operations) is purchasing Green power in support of EPA's Fortune 500 Green Power Challenge. EPA is challenging Fortune 500 Corporations to collectively exceed 10 billion kilowatt-hours Green power purchasing by year end 2009.

"This was a wonderful initiative by our Green Team, and we are proud to be recognized by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency," said Gary Kelly, Southwest Airlines Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer. "Purchasing Green power helps our Company become more sustainable, and it helps us in our mission to do the right thing by Our Planet, Our Communities, and Our People."

Green power is electricity that is generated from environmentally preferable renewable resources, such as wind, solar, geothermal, biogas, biomass and low-impact hydro. These resources generate electricity with a net zero increase in carbon dioxide emissions, while offering a superior environmental profile compared to traditional power generation sources. Green power purchases also support the development of new renewable energy generation sources nationwide.

"EPA commends our leading partners for their continued commitment to protecting the environment by using green power," said Kathleen Hogan, Director of the Climate Protection Partnerships Division at EPA. "By supporting green power, Southwest Airlines is reducing its greenhouse gas emissions, supporting clean energy technologies, and contributing to a clean energy future."

About Southwest Airlines

Efficient operations are the hallmark of our Company and the foundation of our environmental commitment. Over the decades, Southwest has been at the forefront of such efficiencies as paperless tickets, quick turnarounds, installation of winglets, and, more recently, the installation of fleet-wide advanced avionics, engine washing, and aircraft performance management. This focus on efficiency not only makes good business sense, it is the right thing to do. For more information on how Southwest Airlines cares for the environment, visit www.southwest.com/cares.

Southwest Airlines (NYSE: LUV) currently serves 67 cities in 35 states, and announced service to Boston Logan beginning Aug. 16, and service to Milwaukee beginning Nov. 1. Based in Dallas, Southwest currently operates more than 3,300 flights a day and has more than 35,000 Employees systemwide.

About EPA's Green Power Partnership

The Green Power Partnership is a voluntary program that encourages organizations to buy green power as a way to reduce the environmental impacts associated with purchased electricity use. The Partnership currently has more than 1,100 Partner organizations voluntarily purchasing billions of kilowatt-hours of green power annually. Partners include a wide variety of leading organizations such as Fortune 500 companies, small and medium sized businesses, local, state, and federal governments, and colleges and universities. For additional information, please visit http://www.epa.gov/greenpower.

TRAVELOCITY GLOBAL ACQUIRES INDIA'S LEADING HOTEL DISTRIBUTION NETWORK, TRAVELGURU

Positions Travelocity Global as leading provider of hotel options in India

In evidence of its commitment to growing its business around the world, Travelocity Global today announced that it has acquired India's leading online hotel distribution network, Travelguru.

The addition of Travelguru builds on Travelocity's existing businesses, teams and relationships in India , which include Travelocity India , its online travel agency site, various supplier and redistribution relationships, as well as global support teams in the country. It also complements Sabre Holdings' highly successful Airline Solutions business in India and its global technology center in Bangalore .

Travelocity Global is one of the world's largest online travel companies, with its Travelocity, lastminute.com and ZUJI businesses worldwide generating more than USD$10 billion in gross travel sales annually.

Travelguru distributes a portfolio of more than 4,000 hotels in India , most of which are independent properties, and it has a strong domestic customer-base. This focus and product breadth complements Travelocity's existing distribution of branded, chain and luxury properties in India , which are available to travellers domestically on Travelocity India , as well to international inbound travellers booking on Travelocity's global network of online travel sites.

Travelocity Global plans to keep both of its online travel businesses in India : Travelocity India and Travelguru.

Mr Roshan Mendis , regional vice president of Travelocity Asia Pacific confirmed: "Travelguru will continue to operate as a stand alone business and brand in India , focused on growing Indian hotel demand, Indian hotel supply and a wide distribution network. Travelocity India will continue its full service online travel agent (OTA) focus, which includes international and domestic air, hotel and package travel. We will look to leverage the benefits of increased access to hotel content across our sites and our distribution partners, and to leverage synergies in product, technology, partnerships and innovation across both businesses over time."

Mr Ashwin Damera, Chief Executive Officer, Travelguru said, "Travelocity is a good fit for Travelguru, and I am excited about our future as part of Travelocity Global. The mutual vision we have for Travelguru is to continue the successful hotel business we have today, and to grow and evolve by working hand in hand with Travelocity's local and global team."

Both Travelocity India and Travelguru businesses will work together to bring significant benefits to Indian hotel suppliers, with increased distribution and greater demand, redistribution partners with greater breadth and depth of Indian supplier content, and to Indian travellers with the broadest of choice of travel deals across all products in India .

Continental Airlines to Join Star Alliance on Oct. 27, 2009

Continental Airlines has announced that it plans to join Star Alliance on Oct. 27, 2009. As previously announced, Continental will end its participation in SkyTeam after its last scheduled flight on Oct. 24, 2009.

Continental's transition from SkyTeam to Star Alliance is a strategic change, originally announced in June 2008, that will enhance travel options and competition. Continental's network will have a distinct fit in Star Alliance, with Continental's New York hub at Newark Liberty International Airport playing a particularly important role for Star Alliance travelers.

Continental's OnePass members do not need to make any changes to their OnePass accounts and will continue to utilize their mileage as normal. Mileage balances will not be affected by the transition.

Through Oct. 24, 2009, OnePass members can continue to earn and redeem miles and make reward reservations on SkyTeam partners.

When the transition to Star Alliance occurs on Oct. 27, 2009, OnePass members will begin earning base miles and Elite Qualification Miles/Points and be able to redeem miles on Star Alliance airlines.

Continental provides alliance updates on its web site at: continental.com/alliancenews.

Southwest Airlines Launches Nationwide Fare Sale

Don't miss out on one-way fares as low as $59!

Ready, set, go! It's On with Southwest Airlines' newest fare sale! Southwest is offering Customers additional discounts with airfares starting as low as $59 one-way to select destinations nationwide. Fares must be purchased by Sept. 3, 2009, and are available for travel everyday except Fridays and Sundays from Sept. 9, 2009, through Jan. 7, 2010. To get these special fares online, visit www.southwest.com. Examples of fares include (see Additional Fare Rules below):

• $59 one-way between Las Vegas and Phoenix
• $59 one-way between Baltimore/Washington and Manchester
• $89 one-way between Los Angeles (LAX) and Seattle
• $89 one-way between Cleveland and Minneapolis/St. Paul
• $109 one-way between Dallas Love Field and Chicago Midway
• $109 one-way between New York LaGuardia and Ft. Myers

After 38 years of service, Southwest Airlines, the nation's leading low-fare carrier, continues to differentiate itself from other airlines--offering a reliable product with exemplary Customer Service. The first two checked bags fly for free (size and weight limits apply), there are no fees for a window or aisle seat, and, as always, snacks, sodas, and smiles are all complimentary!

Southwest Airlines is the most productive airline in the sky and offers Customers a comfortable traveling experience. Southwest offers all premium leather seats and plenty of legroom with a young all-Boeing 737 fleet. Southwest Airlines (NYSE: LUV) currently serves 67 cities in 34 states with service to Milwaukee starting Nov. 1. Based in Dallas, Southwest currently operates more than 3,300 flights a day and has more than 35,000 Employees systemwide.

ADDITIONAL FARE RULES

Southwest Airlines sale fares are available for purchase Aug. 18, 2009, through 11:59 p.m. PDT on Sept. 3, 2009, and travel must take place between Sept. 9, 2009, and Jan. 7, 2010. Blackout dates apply from Nov. 24, 2009, through Dec. 1, 2009, and Dec. 18, 2009, through Jan. 4, 2010. Fares do not include a federal excise tax of $3.60 for each flight segment. A flight segment is defined as a takeoff and a landing. Fares do not include airport-assessed passenger facility charges (PFC) of up to $9.00 and U.S. government-imposed September 11th Security Fee of up to $5.00 one-way. Travel to/from Washington, D.C. (Dulles) starting at $69 one-way. Seats are limited. Fares may vary by destinations, flight, and day of the week. Fares may vary by flight and day of travel and will not be available on some flights that operate during very busy travel times and holiday periods. Fares are available for one-way travel. Fares may be combined with other combinable fares. When combining fares, all rules and restrictions apply. Fares are nonrefundable but may be applied toward the purchase of future travel on Southwest Airlines. Fares are not available through the Group Desk. Any change in the itinerary may result in an increase in fare. Standby travel requires an upgrade to the Anytime fare. Fares are subject to change until ticketed. Offer applies to operated published, scheduled service only.

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Southwest Airlines Begins Boston Logan Service

Carrier Now Operates Ten Daily Nonstop Flights to Two Destinations: Chicago Midway and Baltimore/Washington International

Southwest Airlines today celebrated the airline's new service at Boston Logan with a uniquely Boston-flavored celebration. Southwest Customers and Employees dined on New England clam chowder and enjoyed the patriotic music of a Minuteman Marching band and a Town Crier who officially proclaimed the opening of Southwest's Logan service. Southwest Airlines Chairman, President and CEO Gary Kelly joined Massport CEO and Executive Director Thomas J. Kinton, Jr., Massport Aviation Director Ed Freni, and Greater Boston Convention and Visitors Bureau President and CEO Patrick Moscaritolo in a morning news conference at Logan to launch the airline's new service.

"Today is a great day for the people of Southwest Airlines as well as New England travelers. With our new service here at Logan, Southwest can fully serve the entire Boston area," said Kelly. "Finally all Bostonians can experience our unmatched record in Customer Service, our low fares, and our legendary ontime service, all with the convenience of being located at Logan's Terminal E."

Southwest Airlines is now serving Boston travelers from Logan with ten daily nonstop flights - five daily nonstops to Chicago Midway and five daily nonstop flights to Baltimore/Washington International. In addition to the ten daily nonstop flights, Southwest Airlines' new service out of Boston Logan will offer direct or connecting service to 48 other destinations, including: Las Vegas, Phoenix, Denver, Los Angeles, Houston, and San Francisco, just to name a few. Southwest Airlines will operate from gates E1A and E1B in Terminal E at Logan. To view all of Southwest's destinations from Boston Logan, visit http://gallery.swamedia.com/imageSingle/ImageID=SWA2009041418016/tpl2=images/t ype=jpg.

"Good things come to those who wait, and Boston Logan has waited some time for Southwest,'' said Kinton, CEO of Massport , which owns and operates Logan. "We are thrilled that the nation's busiest airline based on domestic departures is here, but more importantly, their presence and the 'Southwest effect' of lowering fares will benefit the millions of passengers who use Logan."

"We are excited to partner with Southwest Airlines to grow our corporate and leisure visitor markets. The power of Southwest's brand and the desirability of Boston as a visitor destination is a terrific opportunity for our visitor industry," said Moscaritolo, of the Greater Boston Convention & Visitors Bureau.

This morning's press conference was one of the many activities organized to commemorate Southwest Airlines' new service to Logan. Throughout the weekend, dozens of Southwest Employees from Boston and across the country celebrated with Customers at its gates and also rolled up their sleeves at a volunteer activity at the Curtis Guild School in East Boston. Approximately three dozen Southwest Employees participated in such projects as planting flowers and bushes; cleaning and organizing, with the help of their community partners at The Container Store, the teachers lounge and classrooms; and painting an enormous 12'x80' mural located along the school's playground.

When shopping for Southwest online, it's important to know that Southwest Airlines low fares are only available at www.southwest.com. Not only will Customers find Southwest's great rates online at www.southwest.com, but the site also hosts Southwest's Travel Guide where Customers can check out Boston travel tips posted by travelers who frequent Beantown.

Southwest Airlines will continue to celebrate this momentous occasion with a special offer--a bonus Rapid Rewards frequent flyer credit each time you fly into or out of one of our three Boston Area airports between now and September 16, 2009. Visit www.southwest.com/rapid_rewards/rr_promotions.html for more information and to register.

Virgin America Named Travel + Leisure World's Best U.S. Airline for Food Menu

New Airline Takes Top Honors as Best Domestic Airline for Food in Annual World's Best Awards

Virgin America, the California-based airline that is reinventing domestic air travel, today took the top honors as "Best Domestic Airline for Food" in the prestigious Travel + Leisure Annual World's Best Awards readers' survey. Travel + Leisure's World's Best Awards highlight the results of an annual, impartial survey that allows Travel + Leisure readers to share their opinions of their favorite travel experiences.* For the first time this year, the survey results include reviews of key service categories which will be highlighted in the magazine's September issue. Virgin America's industry-leading in-flight dining experience will be profiled in Travel + Leisure's first annual food and travel issue in September.

"We're honored to receive this feedback from Travel + Leisure readers - those who fly the most and expect the very best," said Virgin America Senior Vice President of People and In-flight Frances Fiorillo. "Virgin America's goal is to bring travelers more choices in-flight. In keeping with our California roots, our fresh, seasonal meal items and snacks offer guests convenient, tasty and reasonably priced options they can order any time right from their seatback - without having to worry about grabbing something ahead of time."

With award-winning service and a host of innovative amenities, Virgin America has captured a list of travel industry best-in-class awards since launching service in August 2007 including, Travel + Leisure's World's Best Domestic Airline Award in 2008 and 2009. Virgin America is also the only airline in the U.S. with a touch-screen seatback menu that allows guests to order what they want, when they want it during a flight. Virgin America offers one of the largest selections of fresh menu items, with a focus on lighter, more health-focused choices.

Virgin America's in-flight dining is featured in Travel + Leisure's first annual food and travel issue in September and is available on newsstands on August 28. The special issue will contain a list of the top five World's Best Airlines for Food, both domestic and international. It will be posted on Travel and Leisure's Web site.

"Our goal as a new carrier is to reinvent the flying experience for the better by listening to what our guests want, so we're constantly seeking real-time feedback, whether through the Red seatback screens or now via in-flight WiFi," added Fiorillo. "We've even implemented suggestions received about our menu from some of our very first guests and their feedback will continue to be an essential ingredient in creating the best customer experience in the U.S. skies."

Virgin America's market research and feedback received from guests via Red(TM), the airline's in-flight entertainment system, has shown that guests want fresh, high-quality food options - and that travelers are seeking out convenient buy onboard options over having to purchase food on the go at the airport that is usually at a higher price.

Main Cabin menu options available for purchase at the touch of a button via Red's on-demand ordering system include (prices range between $7 - $10 for meals in Main Cabin, and options are complimentary in Main Cabin Select):

• Fruit and Cheese: Hand-cut imported brie, pepper Monterey Jack and aged cheddar paired with clusters of sweet red seedless grapes, sun-dried cranberries, pecans and crisp multigrain crackers.
• Hummus and Pita Chips: A healthy selection of Mediterranean hummus and baba ganoush served with crisp fresh carrot batons, broccoli and cauliflower florets, sweet red bell pepper, cucumbers, red radish, sugar snap peas and a stuffed grape leaf, served with Stacy's Pita Chips.
• Wild Berry Parfait: A light yogurt parfait layered with vanilla yogurt, raspberries, blueberries and blackberries, served with a crunchy chocolate granola.
• Southwestern Chicken Hand Roll: Zesty roasted red pepper tortilla rolled around strips of grilled chicken, green leaf lettuce, chipotle cream cheese spread, fire roasted corn and black beans, and a colorful trio of red, yellow and green bell peppers. Served with a side salad of orzo pasta with Southwestern vegetables and red pepper pesto and a Toblerone chocolate for dessert.
• Black and Blue Steak Sandwich: Basil and cheese focaccia loaded with blackened flat iron steak, gorgonzola cheese spread, balsamic glazed onions, arugula, sliced Roma tomatoes and fresh red and yellow roasted tomatoes. Served with a Toblerone chocolate for dessert.
• Turkey Florentine Hand Roll: Spinach tortilla wrapped around hand shaved turkey breast, herb cream cheese spread, feta cheese, fresh baby spinach, romaine leaf lettuce, sliced artichoke bottoms, yellow bell pepper strips, Roma tomato, and Belgian endive. Served with a side salad of gemelli pasta with Italian vegetables, sun dried tomatoes and creamy basil pesto, with a Toblerone chocolate for dessert.
• Muffaletta Sandwich: Hearty Focaccia bread stuffed with shaved honey ham, Genoa salami, shaved turkey, Swiss and provolone cheese, spicy olive salad, green leaf lettuce, and sliced tomatoes, paired with Italian dressing on the side, and a Toblerone chocolate for dessert.
• Thai Vegetable Salad: Refreshing Asian-style salad of romaine lettuce, Napa cabbage, julienne carrots, curly daikon radish, sliced cucumber, green onion, julienne tomato, red and yellow bell pepper strips, cilantro, mint, and chopped cashews. Served with sesame ginger vinaigrette dressing on the side and a Toblerone chocolate for dessert.

In addition to Virgin America's food menu, beverages and cocktails are also available for purchase. Guests can always order drinks, like Illy iced cappuccinos, eco-friendly cocktails made with VeeV Acai Spirit and Le Tourment Vert "Mile High Cocktails" from their seatback, and watch as they are mixed on-demand.

Virgin America offers over 100 flights a day and flies to San Francisco, Los Angeles, New York, Washington D.C., Seattle, Las Vegas, San Diego, Boston and Orange County. The airline offers daily flights from: SFO to LAX, SFO to JFK, SFO to SAN, SFO to IAD, SFO to LAS, LAX to JFK, LAX to IAD, SFO to SEA, SEA to LAX, JFK to LAS, BOS to LAX, BOS to SFO, SFO to SNA and starting November 18, 2009, SFO to FLL and LAX to FLL. Virgin America has flown more than 4.5 million guests since its inaugural flights in August 2007 and now counts over 925,000 Elevate loyalty program members.

Would You Take a Trip to Space?

Comfort Suites Hotels Are Offering Travelers the Chance to Win a Trip to Space*

If you could take a trip to space, would you? Comfort Suites hotels are offering travelers the opportunity to do just that. As part of the brand's "Explore the Space Sweepstakes" three lucky online participants will get the chance to win a trip to space.*

"What better way to remind our guests how spacious our Comfort Suites rooms are then to offer them a chance to win a trip to the biggest space of all -- a trip to outer space," said Chris Malone, Chief Marketing Officer for Choice Hotels International, Inc., franchisor of the Comfort Suites brand. "Comfort Suites rooms provide plenty of space to spread out and relax, along with free amenities like a hot breakfast and Wi-Fi."

Starting August 13 through September 24, 2009, consumers can go online to ExploreTheSpaceSweepstakes.com to enter for their chance to win "out-of-this-world" prizes and qualify for a chance to win a trip to space. To qualify, entrants must be current members of or sign up for the Choice Privileges rewards program. Once selected, three finalists will be given $5,000 in cash and a power packed trip to Kennedy Space Center Visitors Complex where they will participate in an amazing astronaut experience program. On the last day of their visit, the finalists will play a game of chance for the ultimate grand prize -- a trip to space!

In addition to the three finalist prize winners, three second prize winners will each receive a trip for four to space camp in Huntsville, Alabama and a Comfort Suites prize pack making for the ultimate space camp family experience. And just so no one is left on the launch pad, fifty runner-ups will receive a Comfort Suites prize pack valued at $100. For more information on the Comfort Suites Explore the Space Sweepstakes, visit ExploreTheSpaceSweepstakes.com.

Southwest Airlines Rapid Rewards Welcomes Wyndham Hotel Group Onboard

Southwest Airlines Adds Wyndham Hotel Group as New Preferred Participant to the Carrier's Frequent Flyer Program

Southwest Airlines and Wyndham Hotel Group, the world's largest hotel company with 11 brands and more than 7,000 hotels, announced a new association today between the companies' respective loyalty programs, Southwest Airlines Rapid Rewards and Wyndham Rewards . Rapid Rewards Members now have the option to earn a half (0.5) Rapid Rewards credit for each stay at any of more than 6,000 Wyndham Rewards properties worldwide.

To celebrate the new alliance, Rapid Rewards Members can receive TRIPLE credit after their second qualifying stay. Visit: www.southwest.com/wyndham for offer details, and visit: www.southwest.com or www.wyndhamrewards.com to book a hotel stay. Even if Customers are not traveling in 2009, Wyndham Hotel Group is inviting Rapid Rewards Members to enroll in Wyndham Rewards for a chance to win a FREE flight on Southwest Airlines. Twenty winners will be awarded one (1) FREE flight on Southwest Airlines, valid to more than 60 destinations Southwest serves, including three new markets, Minneapolis-St. Paul, Boston Logan and New York LaGuardia. Visit: www.wyndhamrewards.com/southwest to enroll and view complete details on the sweepstakes and official rules. No purchase is necessary to participate.

Additionally, Southwest is inviting Customers on a scavenger hunt in Boston on Aug. 16, 2009, to coincide with Southwest's launch of service to Boston Logan International Airport. Customers can visit Faneuil Hall, a historic site near the center of the city, in hopes of finding a 12-foot-high suitcase and a chance to win two roundtrip tickets on Southwest Airlines and 15,000 Wyndham Rewards points that can be redeemed for a free night stay at most participating Wyndham Hotel Group properties.

"This association with the Wyndham Hotel Group brings tremendous value to the Rapid Rewards Program and our mutual Customers," said Ryan Green, Southwest Airlines' Director of Customer Loyalty.

Michael Mueller, Vice President of International Loyalty and Partnerships, Wyndham Hotel Group, added, "We're very pleased to be associated with Southwest's Rapid Rewards Program, as Members will now be rewarded whether they stay with our award-winning upscale Wyndham Hotels and Resorts brand or in the many comfortable and familiar hotels of our midscale and economy chains including Ramada, Days Inn, and Super 8."

Wyndham Hotel Group's Wyndham Rewards loyalty program is the largest in the lodging industry based on the number of participating hotels.

TSA's Secure Flight Program Enters Next Public Phase

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) announced today that beginning August 15 U.S. airlines participating in the Secure Flight passenger vetting program may begin asking passengers to enter their date of birth and gender when making airline reservations. TSA has already begun to phase the airlines into the Secure Flight program and will complete domestic implementation by early 2010. If a passenger is not prompted to provide this additional information by a particular airline, they should not be concerned as it will not impact their travel. Since Secure Flight is a behind-the-scenes watch list matching process that happens before passengers arrive at the airport, current security checkpoint procedures remain the same.

This is the second publicly-noticeable step in implementing the Secure Flight program which shifts pre-departure watch list matching responsibilities from individual airlines to TSA. The first public phase began on May 15 when airlines began asking passengers to provide their name - as it appears on the government issued identification they will be traveling with - when making airline reservations.

"Secure Flight is a key tool in confirming that someone identified as a 'No Fly' does not receive a boarding pass," said TSA Acting Administrator Gale Rossides. "Secure Flight will make travel safer and easier for passengers."

Once Secure Flight's advanced technology is fully implemented for domestic flights in early 2010, enhanced watch list matching will be done by TSA. Airlines or travel agencies acting on their behalf will gather a passenger's name, date of birth and gender when making an airline reservation to determine if the passenger is a match to the No Fly or Selectee lists. By providing the additional data elements of gender and date of birth, Secure Flight will more effectively help prevent misidentification of passengers who have similar names to individuals on a watch list and better identify individuals that may pose a threat to aviation.

Individuals requesting access to secure areas in U.S. airports to assist a passenger to the gate will also be asked to provide their full name, date of birth and gender when requesting a gate pass from the airline ticket agent.

The Secure Flight program satisfies a key recommendation of the 9/11 Commission, congressional requirements from the Intelligence Reform and Terrorism Prevention Act of 2004, and the 9/11 Commission Act signed into law in 2007.

TSA's goal is to vet 100 percent of passengers on all domestic commercial flights by early 2010 and 100 percent of passengers on all international commercial flights into, out of, or over the U.S. by the end of 2010.

WHY Secure Flight: TSA must ensure known or suspected terrorists are unable to obtain a boarding pass. To mitigate this risk, TSA is implementing its Secure Flight program - a behind-the-scenes watch list matching process that vets passengers against government watch lists before a boarding pass is ever issued. For more information about Secure Flight please visit www.tsa.gov.

Introducing JetBlue's All-You-Can-Jet Pass! One Month of Unlimited Travel Available for Only $599(a)

August 13 through Aug. 21*, customers can purchase a flight pass to visit as many destinations as often as they like between Sept. 8 and Oct. 8, 2009(a) -- Jetters will have access to every available seat, on every flight and can book travel or make changes up to three days before departure --

What would you do with an All-You-Can-Jet pass on JetBlue Airways? Today through August 21*, customers can purchase an unlimited travel pass for only $599(a), which will allow them to visit any of the airline's 56 international and domestic destinations as often as they like between September 8 and October 8, 2009. Pass holders will have access to every available seat on every flight with no blackout dates, and can book travel up to three days prior to departure through October 5(a). Thirty-five TrueBlue points from the airline's customer loyalty program will also be awarded with the purchase of an All-You-Can-Jet pass.

"The All-You-Can-Jet pass gives jetsetters access to a bigwig lifestyle, with 56 destinations and more than 150 jets available at a moment's notice," said Robin Hayes, executive vice president and chief commercial officer for JetBlue Airways. "Get extra face time with an important client; become a groupie for your favorite band; grab a ticket to the away games; extend summer with some extra rays in the Caribbean; take a spontaneous trip to see the extended family; or grab some genuine jambalaya or clam chowder. You can do it all as often as you like in a month without emptying your pockets. It's our answer to the ultimate road trip."

Customers who purchase a pass can book new travel or make changes or cancellations to previous pass reservations without penalty up to three days before departure. All travel using the All-You-Can-Jet pass must be booked between Aug. 12 and Oct. 5(a). Changes or cancellations made less than three days before departure will be subject to JetBlue's $100 change/cancel fee. All pass purchases can be made by calling 1-800-JETBLUE (538-2583). Customers must be TrueBlue members to take advantage of the pass. For more information about TrueBlue, or to register to become a member, visit www.jetblue.com/trueblue.

All-You-Can-Jet pass holders can book flights by calling 1-800-JETBLUE (538-2583) and providing reservations crewmembers with their pass holder number, which they will receive after purchasing the pass. The pass is inclusive of taxes and fees for all domestic flights. Additional taxes and fees for Puerto Rico and international flights are not included. Customers can upgrade to Even More Legroom seats on each flight for an additional $10, $25 or $40, depending on the flight length. Other terms and conditions apply(a). Additional information is available at http://www.jetblue.com/deals/all-you-can-jet/tc.pdf.

TAM and Air China Sign Codeshare Agreement

Customers from both companies can enjoy an integrated network and outstanding service on their flights

TAM and Air China will begin operating codeshare flights that connect Sao Paulo and Beijing this month. The agreement will provide greater comfort and convenience to passengers of both companies.

Departing from Brazil on TAM, passengers will be able to purchase tickets to Beijing, with a connection in Madrid's Barajas International Airport. There, they will have the services and support of Brazilian TAM personnel to make connections on flights operated by Air China, which will use the code JJ to Beijing.

From the Chinese capital to here, Air China passengers will have the same benefits in creating their itineraries, also making a connection in the Spanish capital for our direct flight to Sao Paulo.

For TAM, the partnership is very strategic. "This is the first agreement we have made with an Asian company, a fact made more significant by being made with a company that has such an extensive network and high service standard as Air China, our Star Alliance partner," states Paulo Castello Branco, TAM's Commercial and Planning Vice President.

"TAM is a new member of the Star Alliance. We are happy to establish this partnership with them, which lets the passengers travel more comfortably with our own operations or with codeshare partners," says Zhang Lan, Air China's Vice President.

American Airlines Celebrates the Admirals Club 70th Birthday

Airline Begins 70 Days of Celebration with Birthday Sweepstakes, Special $70 Savings Offer

Seventy years ago, in 1939, American Airlines opened the airline industry's first VIP lounge at LaGuardia Airport in New York. In honor of the occasion, American is kicking off 70 days of celebration with a birthday sweepstakes and a $70 savings offer on annual memberships. Additionally, customers on one lucky flight will receive two one-day passes to use at any of American's more than 40 Admirals Club(R) lounge locations worldwide.

On Thursday, Aug. 13, visitors to the Chicago O'Hare H/K Admirals Club lounge are in for a treat. Chef Duff Goldman from the popular television program Ace of Cakes will present a birthday cake, which he will bake especially for the occasion, to the Admirals Club. Customers are invited to enjoy a piece of cake and meet Chef Duff as the Admirals Club 70th birthday celebration continues.

"For seven decades, the Admirals Club has been known for exceptional hospitality and outstanding service, providing travelers with a quiet place to relax or conduct business," said Nancy Knipp, President - Admirals Club. "We're very appreciative of our customers and look forward to showing our gratitude during our 70 days of celebration and the years to come."

Through Oct. 19, customers are invited to experience the Admirals Club legacy and help American commemorate 70 years of Admirals Club service by registering to win one of seven prizes in the birthday sweepstakes. Prizes include a Lifetime Admirals Club Membership; a weeklong luxury vacation in Maui; one night at a Hollywood movie premiere; a ski trip in Vail, Co.; and more. Just for registering, customers will receive a $70 savings offer on an annual Admirals Club membership, whether it's new or a renewal. No purchase is necessary to enter the sweepstakes. Complete sweepstakes rules, Offer Terms and Conditions, and other details - including how to enter, a look back at the Admirals Club history, and much more - can be found at the Admirals Club birthday celebration Web site, www.aa.com/AC70years.

Customers are encouraged to join the fun by sharing their Admirals Club experiences via text, photo or video on the birthday Web site, where they will also find a calendar of celebration activities and a 70-day Admirals Club birthday party blog.

American, a founding member of the global oneworld(R) Alliance, offers annual Admirals Club memberships for new members ranging from just $350 to $500. One-day passes are available for $50 and may be purchased online, at self-service check-in machines, or at any Admirals Club location.

American's Admirals Club lounges heighten the airport experience and set American apart from other airlines. Amenities vary by location, and include:

• conference rooms
• a multi-functional business center with individual work stations
• personal computers with complimentary high-speed Internet access, PC data ports, telephones, printers, copier and fax service
• a walk up cyber cafe
• music rooms
• spa-like shower facilities
• complimentary coffee, tea, soft drinks, juices and light snacks, in addition to bar service and food for purchase through the enhanced food and beverage program, Amora(TM)
• children's rooms featuring age appropriate computer and TV programming

To learn more, visit American's Admirals Club Web site at www.aa.com/admiralsclub.

Virgin America Celebrates Second Year Anniversary

Start-up Airline Celebrates Year-Two with Award Wins and Virgin America Day in San Francisco; Thanks Community and Guests with Elevate Contest and Special Offer at Virgin America San Francisco Giants Home Game 

This weekend, Virgin America, the California-based airline that is making flying good again, is marking its second birthday with a special contest to thank its current Elevate Loyalty Program members and welcome its one-millionth member. The airline currently counts 950,000 Elevate members to date and is due to cross the one-million marker later this month. To celebrate the milestone, the one-millionth member will win 100,000 Elevate points - the equivalent of a year* of free flights on Virgin America (up to 20 short haul roundtrips or eight long hauls). Current Elevate members also have a shot at winning a year** of free flights by sharing their favorite "Virgin" experience at: www.virginamerica.com/onemillion.

Elevate is Virgin America's first-of-its-kind loyalty program, which offers guests the ability to redeem points for any unsold seat - on any Virgin America flight, at any time. Elevate offers Web-based redemption with dynamic pricing and no black-out dates, so guests don't have to jump through hoops to find or book the flights they've earned. When the one-millionth Elevate member is announced later this month, Elevate members will also receive a special discount offer for travel on the airline - in appreciation of their loyalty.

"Virgin America was launched to reinvent flying in the domestic skies, by offering innovative amenities and top-notch service for low fares," said Virgin America President and CEO David Cush. "In the past two years, we've marked a number of milestones en route: first to full fleet WiFi; creation of a 1400-strong team; a growing list of travel industry best-in-class awards; and expansion to nine destination cities. Through it all, we've been humbled by the outpouring of support from our community and guests. We couldn't be more pleased to celebrate our second anniversary than by thanking the people who believed we could change the way people fly -- our hometown, guests and teammates."

For the second year in a row, San Francisco Mayor Newsom has declared Aug. 8 "Virgin America Day" in the City of San Francisco. Virgin America teammates, top fliers and community supporters will continue the celebration Saturday evening at a San Francisco Giants home game at AT&T Park, where Cush will throw out the ceremonial first pitch. In special thanks to their hometown fans, Virgin America is giving all 42,000 attendees at AT&T Park on Saturday a special two-for-one deal on flights to any of Virgin America's destinations.***

"Congratulations to the only California-based airline - Virgin America, and its more than 1400 teammates on its second-year anniversary," said San Francisco Mayor Gavin Newsom. "As SFO continues to grow, while other airports report shrinking traffic - the addition of your low-fare, high-tech service has had a major impact on the Bay Area economy and has resonated with travelers. We look forward to many, many more anniversaries to come."

With just two years under its belt, Virgin America has much to celebrate with a list of travel industry best-in-class awards, including "Best Domestic Airline" in Travel + Leisure's World's Best Awards in 2008 and 2009 and "Best Domestic Airline" in the Conde Nast Traveler 2008 Readers' Choice Awards. In May, the airline became the first to offer Gogo In-flight Internet service on every flight.

"Our teammates have accomplished a lot during our first two years, and it is great to know from the awards we've won that our guests think we're moving in the right direction as well," said Cush. "We built an airline from the ground-up by focusing on what guests actually want and now more than ever people are looking for value in their travel choices. As we grow, we hope that we'll continue to push the industry towards delivering lower fares, better service and more amenities in the markets we enter."

Virgin America has proven to be one of the fastest growing U.S. start-up airlines of all time. Since launching on Aug. 8, 2007, the airline has grown to more than 1400 teammates and more than 100 flights a day with service to nine destinations from its home-base at San Francisco International Airport (SFO). The only airline based in California, Virgin America has a brand new 28-aircraft Airbus A320-family fleet and has completed more than 45,000 flights, welcomed more than 27 million visitors to its Web Site, and served nearly 5 million guests since its launch. Operationally, Virgin America continues to excel, achieving a consistently high and impressive 83.2 percent A-14 on-time performance for the year-to-date in 2009. The carrier's mishandled baggage rate is also industry-leading, with an average of 1.25 bags per 1000 guests year-to-date in 2009, versus the industry average of 4.29 bags per 1000 guests.

In its first two years of flying, Virgin America has marked a few other notable highlights:

• First airline to offer GoGo In-flight Internet fleetwide in May 2009, via a live SKYPE chat with Oprah Winfrey and her studio audience;
• First airline to capture Travel + Leisure's World's Best Awards "Best Domestic Airline" in its first years flying - for 2008 and 2009;
• Only U.S. airline with power outlets at every seat;
• First U.S. airline to offer carbon offsets in-flight;
• First domestic airline to join the Climate Registry, a nonprofit organization that sets consistent standards to calculate, verify and report greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions;

• Partnered with world-renowned chef, Luke Mangan, to design a new health-focused, gourmet menu in First Class;

• Won high ratings in the 2008 Zagat Airline Survey;

• Named "Best Domestic Airline" in the Conde Nast Traveler 2008 Readers' Choice Awards;
• First in-flight premiere of a television series with episode one of "Entourage" season five launching the airline's LAS-JFK route;
• First commercial passenger airline to be accepted into the Environmental Protection Agency's Climate Leaders program;

• First U.S. airline with a "food button" or touch-screen seatback food ordering system at every seat;
• First domestic airline to offer more than 30 on-demand movies at every seat;
• Newest domestic fleet in U.S., which is up to 25 percent more carbon and fuel efficient than other domestic airlines;
• First U.S. airline to offer loyalty member an opportunity to fly their way to a seat on a Virgin Galactic flight;
• First U.S. airline to launch a loyalty program where members could earn points from the day the airline launched. 

Virgin America flies to San Francisco, Los Angeles, New York, Washington D.C., Seattle, Las Vegas, San Diego, Boston and Orange County. The airline is one of the fastest growing of all time, with a new 28-aircraft Airbus A320-family fleet and daily flights from: SFO to LAX, SFO to JFK, SFO to SAN, SFO to IAD, SFO to LAS, LAX to JFK, LAX to IAD, SFO to SEA, SEA to LAX, JFK to LAS, BOS to LAX, BOS to SFO, and SFO to SNA.

Air China Launches China's First Business Travel Card

Travel card offers business travelers exclusive services and promotions 

Air China has launched the 'Air China Business Travel Card', becoming the first airline in China's civil aviation industry to introduce such a service.

In order to meet business passengers' needs, Air China has integrated the services offered through e-commerce and frequent flyer programs to launch the 'Air China Business Travel Card'. There are four types of card available -- The Distinguished Travel Card, The Clear Travel Card, The Smooth Travel Card and The Easy Travel Card. These cards can be used to store credit, book tickets, collect frequent flyer miles and utilize complimentary services. The cards come with a credit value of between RMB 20,000 and 300,000.

Air China has launched several promotions and limited edition versions of the business travel cards. The first 99 customers to purchase a limited edition Distinguished Travel Card will receive a complimentary first-class roundtrip ticket to any of Air China's international destinations. The first 500 customers to purchase a limited edition Distinguished Travel Card will receive a Gold PhoenixMiles Card.

The first 199 customers to purchase a limited edition Clear Travel Card will receive a complimentary first-class roundtrip ticket to any of Air China's domestic destinations. The first 1000 customers to purchase a limited edition Clear Travel Card will receive a silver PhoenixMiles Card.

The first 299 customers to purchase one of the 10,000 limited edition Smooth Travel Cards, will receive a complimentary economy roundtrip ticket to any of Air China's domestic destinations, plus complimentary credit of RMB 3,000.

The first 399 customers to purchase one of the 200,000 limited edition Easy Travel Cards, will receive a complimentary economy one-way ticket to any of Air China's domestic destinations, plus complimentary credit of RMB 1,000.

The promotion is valid from August 6, 2009 to December 31, 2009. Passengers can call +86-4008-986-999 and then press 6 to order their Business Travel Card. Once ordered, the card can be used starting September 16, 2009. Once the card's credit is used, it can be recharged. If lost, a new card can be issued at the appointed Air China sales offices. For more product information, please visit http://www.airchina.com.cn or call the booking hotline at +86-4008-986-999 and press 6 for details.

Continental Airlines Begins New Nonstop Service From Honolulu and Guam to Nadi, Fiji

Twice-weekly flights offer convenient connections from U.S. mainland and Japan

Continental Airlines today announced new service from its Guam hub and Honolulu to Nadi, Fiji beginning Dec. 18, 2009. The flights will also offer convenient connections from the U.S. mainland, Japan and Continental's Micronesian network to Nadi.

"We are pleased to add Nadi to our portfolio of Pacific destinations," said Jim Compton, Continental's executive vice president of marketing. "Fiji is a popular vacation spot that attracts visitors from around the world, and we see a strong demand for leisure travel to the area."

The service will be operated by Continental Micronesia using two-cabin Boeing 737-800 aircraft with 155 seats.

The flights from Guam's A.B. Won Pat International Airport (GUM) will operate on Mondays and Fridays departing at 10:55 p.m. and arriving at Nadi International Airport (NAN) at 7:30 a.m. the next morning. Return flights will operate on Wednesdays and Sundays departing Nadi at 12:40 a.m. and arriving in Guam at 5:10 a.m. the same day.

The flights from Honolulu International Airport (HNL) will operate on Mondays and Fridays departing at 6:55 p.m. and arriving in Nadi at 11:40 p.m. the following day. Return flights will operate on Tuesdays and Saturdays departing at 8:50 a.m. and arriving in Honolulu at 5:25 p.m. the previous day, after crossing the International Date Line.

Fiji, located in the heart of the South Pacific, is a group of more than 300 islands and atolls dotted across 200,000 square miles of sea. The islands are known for their picturesque coasts, tall coconut palms and brilliant turquoise lagoons fringed by coral reefs and white sandy beaches. Travelers from around the world visit Fiji for its pristine beauty, varied activities including diving and surfing, and relaxed lifestyle.

Continental Airlines is the world's fifth largest airline. Continental, together with Continental Express and Continental Connection, has more than 2,750 daily departures throughout the Americas, Europe and Asia, serving 133 domestic and 132 international destinations. More than 750 additional points are served via current alliance partners. With more than 43,000 employees, Continental has hubs serving New York, Houston, Cleveland and Guam, and together with its regional partners, carries approximately 63 million passengers per year.

Celebrating its 75th anniversary this year, Continental consistently earns awards and critical acclaim for both its operation and its corporate culture. For the sixth consecutive year, FORTUNE magazine named Continental the No. 1 World's Most Admired Airline on its 2009 list of World's Most Admired Companies. For more company information, go to continental.com.

St. Regis Makes the Next Stop on Its Global Expedition with the Opening of the St. Regis Mexico City

Designed by Yabu Pushelberg and World-Renowned Architect Cesar Pelli, The St. Regis Mexico City Offers an Unrivaled Dimension of Luxury, Sophistication and Unparalleled Service In Mexico City's Most Exclusive Neighborhood

Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. today announces the opening of The St. Regis Mexico City, located on the exclusive Paseo de la Reforma boulevard overlooking the iconic Plaza of Diana. Mexico’s most anticipated new landmark – and the brand’s first downtown hotel in the region – The St. Regis Mexico City features 189 luxuriously appointed guestrooms and suites each with spectacular views of the city, a signature Remède Spa, and three signature restaurants. Owned by Grupo 1818 and designed by critically acclaimed Yabu Pushelberg design firm and world-renowned architect Cesar Pelli, The St. Regis Mexico City offers an unrivaled dimension of luxury, sophistication and bespoke service at one of the best addresses in the world.

The St. Regis Mexico City is conveniently located only 30 minutes from Benito Juarez International Airport and is only a short distance from the city’s famed Polanco area, the bustling financial district and the landmark Historic Center. Situated at the heart of Paseo de la Reforma, the hotel offers guests easy access to specialty shopping, haute cuisine, cultural centers and museums including the world-famous Anthropology Museum, the Museo Frida Kahlo, the Museum of Modern Art - Mexico City and the Rufino Tamayo Museum.

“We are proud to debut the St. Regis brand in Mexico City with the opening of The St. Regis Mexico City, featuring the iconic luxury, unmatched privilege and bespoke services for which the St. Regis brand is renowned,” said Paul James, Global Brand Leader, St. Regis and The Luxury Collection Hotels & Resorts. “Located on the historic Paseo del la Reforma Boulevard, the hotel offers access to a unique mix of world-class art, fashion, culture and cuisine at one of the best addresses in the world.”

“The opening of The St. Regis Mexico City not only launches our most exclusive brand in Mexico City, but also reaffirms our deep commitment to the country with which we have both a long history, as well as strong future growth plans,” said Osvaldo Librizzi, President of Starwood Hotels & Resorts Latin America.

Designed by world-renowned architect Cesar Pelli, whose firm Pelli Clarke Pelli Architects has created some of the world’s most prestigious architectural masterpieces, The St. Regis Mexico City rises 492 feet above street level with floor-to-ceiling glass panes, offering spectacular views of the city’s vibrant culture. Internationally acclaimed design firm Yabu Pushelberg completed the interiors using bold colors and Mexican inspired design elements to seamlessly blend contemporary luxury with Mexico’s rich artistic heritage. Each exquisitely appointed guestroom features a neutral color palette infused with rich accents of greens and purples including custom-made carpets and furniture inspired by Mexico City’s celebrated artisans. Many of the materials used by Yabu Pushelberg in the hotel’s design have been crafted locally by traditional Mexican artists including the lavish Onyx mosaics adorning each bathroom and laser-cut silver screens in the hotel’s lobby. In addition, each guestroom includes a 42 inch LCD television with DVD player, a state-of-the-art sound system, a MP3 docking station, and an innovative LCD television recessed behind the bathroom mirror, enabling images to be projected onto a screenless surface.

Mexico City is one of the fastest growing culinary epicenters of the world, attracting the best chefs and restaurateurs to satisfy the city’s growing international clientele. Dining at The St. Regis Mexico City indulges the senses with diverse culinary offerings ranging from Diana Restaurant, led by Executive Chef Jeff Pelaez, which features an exquisite menu of Mediterranean cuisine to specialty cocktails including St. Regis’ signature Bloody Mary and Afternoon Tea in the Decanter Room or at King Cole Bar. Guests are also invited to enjoy a private dining experience on the hotel’s Helipad with breathtaking views of the city below.

St. Regis Mexico City’s signature Remède Spa offers the spa brand’s exclusive Laboratoire Remède skincare line renowned for its anti-aging therapies. Guests can drift away while experienced therapists offer customized massage, facial and body treatments in one of seven discreet treatment rooms or in the exclusive Couples’ Suite. The spa will also feature a Vichy treatment room, manicure and pedicure stations, and men’s and women’s lounges where guests can unwind while indulging in signature refreshments, truffles, and bite-sized indulgences. The hotel’s Fitness Center offers state of the art exercise equipment, an intimate Yoga and Pilates studio and the city’s first panoramic indoor pool.

An ideal destination for weddings, meetings and social events, The St. Regis Mexico City features more than 12,211 square feet of indoor meeting and event space including the Astor Ballroom with more than 9,000 square feet of function space, the 2,600 square-foot Diamond Ballroom and four large breakout rooms. All event space is equipped with the latest state-of-the-art meeting equipment, wireless internet and access to St. Regis’ legendary butler service.

Following in the tradition of the iconic St. Regis Hotel New York, The St. Regis Mexico City will feature the famed hallmarks of St. Regis hotels including the legendary St. Regis Butler Service, bespoke guest experiences and luxury accommodations tailored to meet global travelers’ needs. Trained in the English tradition, the butlers provide ever-present, yet unobtrusive service while anticipating guests needs and customizing each guest's stay according to his or her specific tastes and preferences.

The St. Regis brand continues to strengthen its presence in Latin America with plans to open The St. Regis Kanai in the Mayan Riviera and The St. Regis Buenos Aires in Argentina. The opening of The St. Regis Mexico City marks the brand’s second hotel in Mexico following the recent opening of The St. Regis Punta Mita in Puerto Vallarta.

JetBlue Unveils an Even More Rewarding TrueBlue Customer Loyalty Program.

JetBlue Airways set out to bring humanity back to air travel when it launched service nearly a decade ago, and this fall the airline plans to bring a bit of sanity back to the business of frequent flier programs with a complete revamp of TrueBlue, its customer loyalty program.

The new program is scheduled to launch Sept. 28, 2009, and makes TrueBlue more rewarding, more flexible, and more valuable for the airline's jetters - whether they're road warriors or occasional travelers. It also turns the traditional frequent flier model on its tail by changing the way points are earned and redeemed.

Earning Points

Points in the redesigned TrueBlue program will be based on dollars spent with JetBlue , instead of flight length. Customers will be rewarded with three TrueBlue points for every eligible dollar they spend with JetBlue, plus double points (six per dollar) will be awarded for purchases made through www.jetblue.com (a). Customers can also continue to accrue points by using the JetBlue Card from American Express: every $1 of eligible spending will equal 1 TrueBlue point, as well as double points for purchases made at JetBlue .

Customers will also enjoy bonus points after reaching specific thresholds in TrueBlue. The "Go Big Bonus" offers customers more points the more they jet:

        You will receive a

Once you reach* "Go Big Bonus" of

-------------- -----------------

3,000 points 500   points

------------ ------------

6,000 points 1,000 points

------------ ------------

9,000 points 2,000 points

------------ ------------

12,000 points 4,000 points

------------- ------------

For every 3,000 4,000 points

points above 

12,000 points

*Restricted to points earned solely from purchasing air travel on jetblue.com and within a twelve month period. "Go Big Bonus" points do not count towards your next point threshold trigger.

A "Go Long Bonus" will offer customers who jet on ten one-way long-haul flights (2,000 miles in distance or longer, the equivalent of only 5 transcontinental roundtrips) within a year a whopping 10,000 bonus points -- enough for a roundtrip award flight (b). Example of eligible "Go Long" routes include Boston to Los Angeles or San Francisco; Long Beach, Calif. to Fort Lauderdale, Fla., or Washington, D.C.; and New York to Barbados or Saint Lucia.

Redeeming Points

In an industry reversal, JetBlue will make every seat on every flight available for TrueBlue redemption (c). Just as regular fares vary, the points required for a TrueBlue award flight will also vary according to the specific flight chosen and factors including the destination, day of the week, season, and advance booking window, making TrueBlue points currency you can use to "buy" your award flight.

One-way award flights will be available starting at a mere 5,000 points and will increase in increments of 100 points based on the above factors. As an added bonus, there are no blackout dates when redeeming TrueBlue awards (c).

"Frequent flier memberships are commonplace these days, but they're frequently a point of frustration," said Dave Canty, JetBlue's director of loyalty marketing. "Airlines have made miles easy to earn but not always easy to use. At JetBlue, we knew there had to be a better way to reward loyalty. That's why we're thrilled to launch a completely redesigned TrueBlue that makes points just as easy to redeem as they are to accrue. It's just another way JetBlue is continuing to work hard to be the most customer-friendly airline in the Americas."

TrueBlue points will not expire as long as a customer takes at least one paid JetBlue flight or makes a qualifying purchase with a JetBlue Card from American Express within 12 months of their last TrueBlue transaction (either a qualifying flight or JetBlue Card transaction).

Current TrueBlue customers will be moved seamlessly to the redesigned program in September, and all existing points and awards will remain valid through their indicated expiration date. To enroll in TrueBlue or to learn more about the program, visit www.jetblue.com/trueblue/newprogram.

JetBlue will continue improving the TrueBlue program, including introducing enhancements throughout the fall that will make the program richer and even more rewarding, including hotel, car and retail partners.

(a) Points will be awarded based on dollars spent on the published base fare paid on your own individual eligible flight. Airport or Passenger Facility Charges, the September 11 Security Fee, Federal Segment Taxes (a segment is a takeoff and landing), US Departure Tax, APHIS fee, Customs and Immigration fees, and other taxes and fees are not eligible to earn Points. The base airfare purchase price for the flight portion of the Getaways and Cruise Vacation Packages will be eligible to earn TrueBlue Points. All other travel services or products purchased as a part of such vacation packages, including but not limited to, hotels, rental cars, and cruises, shall be ineligible for TrueBlue Point accrual.

(b) Certain flights will require more points to redeem award travel based on, among other things the flight chosen and peak travel periods. TrueBlue Members are responsible for (a) Passenger Facility Charges of up to $9.00 each way, (b) September 11th Security Fees of up to $2.50 per enplanement at a U.S. originating airport, (c) Federal Segment Taxes of $3.60 per domestic segment (a segment is a takeoff and landing), (d) in the case of Puerto Rico and international travel, government fees and taxes of up to $127.60, and (e) any other fees, taxes or surcharges applicable to Award travel.

(c) No blackout dates apply to JetBlue operated flights only. Blackout dates apply to code share and interline flights.

CHASE, UNITED AIRLINES LAUNCH THREE NEW PREMIUM CREDIT CARDS

New Cards Provide Exclusive Benefits for Sophisticated Travelers

The respite of a quiet lounge, the comfort of extra legroom on a flight, the exclusivity of elite status, and the opportunity to earn award travel with frequent flyer miles more quickly are all within easy reach for today's busy, sophisticated travelers. These benefits and more are available with three new credit cards announced today by United and Chase Card Services, a division of JPMorgan Chase & Co., including the United Mileage Plus^® Club Visa^® Card, The United Mileage Plus^® Access Visa^® Card and The United Mileage Plus^® Select Visa^® Card.

United and Chase are now offering new credit cards designed for savvy travelers who desire added comfort when they travel or want to take the easy, fast track toward earning miles for their next award trip. With these new cards, cardholders will receive exclusive benefits, including Red Carpet Club membership, Economy Plus seating, up to 5,000 or 10,000 miles that count toward elite status, or double and triple miles toward redeeming an award ticket.

"For some of our credit card customers, it is all about quickly and easily earning miles to reach their next reward, and for others, they want exclusive perks that make travel more comfortable. We now have a breadth of cards that responds to both," said Robert Sahadevan, vice president - Mileage Plus, United. "Our new cards go beyond the conventional spend-a-dollar, earn-a-mile structure by offering cardholders features that provide travel comforts and accelerate their path to achieving coveted elite status or reaching their next award destination."

The exclusive new benefits from United provide cardholders with more value and offer more than the generic credit cards that have characterized the industry for many years.

"The Chase team is delighted to introduce these three new credit card products to loyal United Mileage Plus members, which are designed to provide exclusive benefits and value for the sophisticated traveler," said Dan Tierney, general manager, Chase Card Services.  "Chase greatly values its longstanding partnership with United and members of the Mileage Plus program.  We look forward to continuing to introduce new and innovative products that enrich travel experiences with United, while also earning the distinction of being the credit card choice for our shared customers."

The three new credit cards from United and Chase include the following:

The United Mileage Plus Club Visa Card ($375 annually)

Those who spend a lot of time in busy airports may relax in between connections in the quiet comfort of United's Red Carpet Club lounges with this card. Benefits include:

• Receive an annual Red Carpet Club membership as a cardholder or give it as a gift
• Earn up to 10,000 miles per year toward elite status 
• Earn two miles for every one dollar spent with United, with no cap on the number of miles earned
• Earn one mile for every one dollar spent on all other purchases, with no cap on the number of miles earned
• Receive Mileage Plus priority cardholder service with specially-trained advisors

The United Mileage Plus Access Visa Card ($275 annually)

Stretching out with up to five more inches of legroom and relaxing with two, one-time Red Carpet Club passes will make the annual trip to Hawaii or Paris more enjoyable with this card. Benefits include:

• Extra legroom in Economy Plus for cardholders and a guest traveling together on domestic and international flights
• Earn up to 10,000 miles per year toward elite status
• Receive two, one-time Red Carpet Club passes every year
• Earn one mile for every one dollar spent on all purchases, with no cap on the number of miles earned
• Receive Mileage Plus priority cardholder service with specially-trained advisors

The United Mileage Plus Select Visa Card ($130 annually)

Earning additional miles on purchases made with United, Star Alliance and other every day expenses means that flying to San Francisco for the weekend with an award ticket may happen in months instead of years. Benefits include:

• Earn triple miles on all United purchases
• Earn double miles on Star Alliance, gas, home improvement, grocery and dining purchases
• Earn one mile for every one dollar spent on all purchases, with no cap on the number of miles earned
• Receive 5,000 bonus anniversary miles every year
• Earn up to 5,000 miles per year toward elite status on united.com purchases

More information about these three new credit cards from United and Chase is available at www.united.com/newcards.

The Dog (and Cat) Days of Summer! JetBlue Airways Offers PETCO Customers a 50 Percent Discount on Travel Fees for Pets that Jet this September

Pet furiendly JetBlue Airways is pleased to announce a special 50 percent discount (a) on the airline's standard JetPaws pet fee of $100 each way for PETCO's jet setting, four-legged customers this September. To receive the discount, flights must be booked between Aug 1, 2009 and Aug 31, 2009 for travel between Sept 1, 2009 and Sept 30, 2009 by calling 800-JETBLUE (538-2583) (a). The special promotional code can be obtained at any of PETCO's more than 950 stores across the country or by visiting www.petco.com/letsgo.

Additionally, New York's hometown carrier is also the official airline of PETCO's Fifth Annual National Chihuahua Races taking place this month. Seven regional race winners from across the country, along with their faithful pet parents, will jet in style and comfort courtesy of JetBlue to New York City to attend the championship races held on August 29, where one tiny speedster will be crowned America's Fastest Chihuahua.

JetPaws(TM) is JetBlue's exclusive in-cabin program designed to provide pet owners with helpful Travel Pettiquette guidelines, which outline the social graces of jetting with small dogs and cats. As part of the program, customers also receive two bonus award points for each flight through JetBlue's TrueBlue customer loyalty program, helping two-legged customers earn free travel faster when traveling with Fido or Fluffy.

As part of this new relationship, PETCO will also sell JetBlue's unique, custom-made pet carrier co-designed by Cindy Adams, celebrated New York Post columnist, ASPCA board member and founder of Jazzy Park Avenue Dog products. The JetPaws Pet Carrier will be available in more than 950 PETCO stores across the country and will continue to be available online at jetblue.com. More information about the carrier and JetPaws program can be found at www.jetblue.com/jetpaws.

JetBlue accepts up to four small cats or dogs in the cabin of the aircraft on both domestic and international flights. The combined weight of the pet and carrier may not exceed 20 pounds. Only one pet is allowed per customer and the pet carrier does count as one personal carry-on item. For the safety and comfort of all customers, pets must remain in a closed carrier at the airport and in-flight for the entire duration of the trip. To book a pet, customers must call our reservations team at 1-800-JETBLUE.

Offer ends 8/31/09. Promo Code is valid for a discount of 50% off the standard pet travel fee of $100. Flights must be booked between 8/1-8/31/09, for travel between 9/1/09-9/30/09. Promo Code is only valid for bookings made through JetBlue by calling 1-800-JETBLUE (538-2583). The phone booking fee of $15 will be waived for travel booked with this Promo Code. Promo Code may not be applied to previously booked travel. If travel is cancelled or changed to be outside the eligible window of 9/1/09 to 9/30/09, the Promo Code discount will be forfeited and you will be responsible for the full pet travel fee. All travel with pets is subject to JetBlue's pet travel policies, available at http://www.jetblue.com/jetpaws/. Promo Code may not be combined with other special offers and is not redeemable for cash. Void where prohibited by law. Other restrictions may apply. 2009 JetBlue Airways.

IHG announces opening of new Holiday Inn® hotel in Memphis with historic tribute to Kemmons Wilson

“Next-Generation” Holiday Inn opens in brand’s birthplace, owned by family of Kemmons Wilson, founder of Holiday Inn 

IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group), the world's largest hotel group by number of rooms, today announced that the 133-room Holiday Inn Hotel and Suites Memphis-Wolfchase Galleria has opened, bringing the seventh Holiday Inn to the city where the brand began in 1952. A grand opening ceremony and ribbon cutting took place on Saturday, Aug 1, 57 years to the day after the first Holiday Inn opened.

"We're proud to come full circle in Memphis, bringing the new Holiday Inn sign back to the place where it all began," said Kevin Kowalski, senior vice president, Global Brand Management, Holiday Inn Brands. "This hotel is a great example of the changes we are making as we relaunch the Holiday Inn brand around the world. It's very fitting that the family of Kemmons Wilson, the man who founded Holiday Inn, has reinforced their commitment to the future of our brand and the importance of the global relaunch."

The property is based on the Holiday Inn brand's "Next-Generation” prototype design, while the new sign is the seal of approval that this hotel exemplifies the standards of the $1 billion  Holiday Inn brand relaunch program.

The Holiday Inn brand relaunch is the largest in the history of the hospitality industry, with more than 3,200 hotels around the world being updated - improving quality and driving consistency at Holiday Inn and Holiday Inn Express hotels around the world. The global estate is expected to be relaunched by the end of 2010, and more than 1,000 hotels have been already been relaunched to date.

The relaunch focuses on the things research shows matter most to guests - a modern, contemporary hotel with efficient, friendly service  and a great night's sleep. Relaunched hotels such as the Holiday Inn Memphis-Wolfchase feature:

• Upgraded and decluttered lobby areas
• A Holiday Inn signature scent and sound
• New crisp, white bedding with pillows that come in two comfort levels: "soft" and "firm"
• Upgraded showers with specially designed showerheads that offer superior pressure, signature shower curtain with curved rod and new bathroom amenities
• New exterior lighting and landscaping
• New signage with the redesigned logo

All Holiday Inn employees also go through an extensive "Stay Real" training program to ensure guests receive the level of service they expect.

"The Holiday Inn brand relaunch has given us renewed excitement about the brand, which is meaningful because Holiday Inn is a major part of our family's history," said Kemmons Wilson, Jr., executive vice president, Kemmons Wilson Company.  "I remember when I was just six years old and we cut the ribbon on the very first Holiday Inn. I'm looking forward to the opportunity to continue my father's legacy today and in the future with the new look and feel of the iconic brand he created 57 years ago."

The Holiday Inn Memphis-Wolfchase gives a nod to not only the brand's future but also its history by including museum memorabilia from the first Holiday Inn. The property has an original room set on display including bed, desk, lamp and chair from the very first Holiday Inn, a collection of 80 historical photos are hung throughout the hotel, including photos of the first stock trade of Holiday Inn, the first royalty check, and Kemmons Wilson with notable figures such as Pope John Paul II and Muhammad Ali.

The property's 93,033 sq.-ft. footprint is based on the Holiday Inn brand's "Next-Generation" prototype design, developed to be more efficient to build, operate and maintain.  It features a contemporary, innovative design that sets new standards for business travelers and families alike.  The hotel design debuts a bold change in room décor for Holiday Inn and creates a residential atmosphere that is warm, trend-forward and comfortable. The hotel showcases a natural, fresh color palette punctuated by pops of energetic colors.

In addition, to standard Holiday Inn guestroom accommodations - the residential design includes business-focused necessities like an ergonomic work station, data ports, complimentary high speed Internet access in guest rooms, WiFi capabilities and AT&T VoIP phone systems, which will allow guests to conduct conference calls for up to six participants even while using their computer online.

The full-service hotel also includes a Kem's Restaurant, named after Kemmons Wilson, featuring a wide array of traditional favorites and fresh, grilled menu items.  The Holiday Inn Memphis-Wolfchase offers a variety of other amenities such as a 24-hour fitness center, indoor heated pool and whirlpool, and gift shop.  With more than 3,000 square feet of function space, the hotel will also be available for business meetings and banquets.

The Holiday Inn Memphis Wolfchase-Galleria is owned and managed by Wilson Hotel Management Co., Inc., a division of Kemmons Wilson, Inc., under a license agreement with a company in the InterContinental Hotels Group, and is located at 2751 New Brunswick Rd., Memphis, Tenn., 38133.