Pro-X-Travel

Virgin America Goes International: California's Airline Toasts New Toronto Flights, Sets Sight on Next Routes

Sir Richard Branson & Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger Take to the Skies to Christen Flight, Mark Airline's Sustainable Growth

Hip Hop Juggernaut and Toronto Native Drake Hosts Mile High Party for Guests En Route to Toronto

Virgin America, the California-based airline, today marks the launch of its first international city and sets it sight on its next destinations. Today, the airline toasts its new Toronto service on a celebrated flight from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) through San Francisco International Airport (SFO) to Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ).  Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger joins Virgin Group Founder Sir Richard Branson onboard the LAX to SFO leg, and via WiFi at 35,000 feet over the California coast, they announce the airline's intent to serve a new destination: Mexico. Upon touchdown, San Francisco Mayor Gavin Newsom will welcome Sir Richard, the Governor and other guests.  The SFO to YYZ flight then will continue on to cross the border in style with Drake, the Toronto native and Grammy nominated recording artist, hosting a mile high party en route.  

Since its 2007 launch, Virgin America  has made sustainable practices a core part of its business model and has experienced record-setting growth along the way – with 1,600 new jobs created, eight million guests flown and a sweep of the major awards, including "Best Domestic Airline" in Condé Nast Traveler's Readers' Choice Awards and Travel + Leisure's  World's Best Awards. Virgin America's low-fare, high-tech service injects new competition into the Canadian market with daily flights* from both SFO and LAX to YYZ. Today, the airline announces its intent to launch flights from SFO to San Jose del Cabo (SJD), SFO to Cancun International Airport (CUN) and LAX to CUN.  The airline today files with the U.S. Department of Transportation for authority to begin flying to Mexico this winter.  

"Today is a great day for airline competition, for our teammates and for travelers," said Virgin America President and CEO David Cush. "When more airlines compete, consumers win with lower fares and better service.  At a time when most airlines are contracting and consumers expect less and less, we're proud to be growing, operating responsibly and offering travelers a very different kind of flight experience."

Virgin America is now poised for major growth, with the launch of five new destinations in 2010, a fleet growth of close to two-thirds projected by Dec. 2011 and plans to double its teammate base by 2012. In addition to creating jobs, lowering fares and improving service, the airline leads the industry on sustainability. Virgin America's investment in new aircraft and consistent use of sustainable practices on the ground and in the air, make it one of the most carbon efficient airlines – with a fleet that is up to 25 percent more efficient than the U.S. average.  Virgin America was the first U.S. airline to list its footprint via globally-recognized standards and to offer guests the ability to offset their travel in-flight. Virgin America's focus on sustainability has also helped streamline the airline's costs. The airline remains a strong supporter of AB 32, California's historic climate change legislation.

"It is no surprise that the only airline headquartered in California is harnessing the best in technology and design to change how people fly. Virgin America has not only reinvented the in-flight experience, they are in step with California's nation-leading green policies and are leading the way to reduce their carbon footprint," said Governor Schwarzenegger. "Their growth reflects the entrepreneurial spirit of our state and again proves that sustainable practices can improve the bottom line and create jobs. I am thrilled to be a part of Virgin America's first international flight and look forward to their continued expansion."

Virgin America's headquarters are LEED certified and its new home at SFO's Terminal Two will be LEED certified as well.  Virgin America operates one of the youngest fleets in North America and its mood-lit, custom-designed cabins feature the Red™ entertainment system, the most advanced in-flight entertainment platform in the skies.  The Red system's touch-screen offers 20 films, live TV, Google Maps, an MP3 library, videogames, an on-demand menu that allows guests to order at their seat, and even select Carbonfund.org offsets.  In 2009, the airline became the first to offer WiFi fleetwide.  

"San Francisco is proud to have Virgin America as its hometown airline," said Mayor Newsom. "Since 2007, they have created hundreds of jobs, lowered fares and helped make SFO one of the nation's few growing airports."

Upon touchdown in Toronto, the Airbus A320 aircraft, "Air Drake," will make a splashy entrance into Canada with a water cannon salute, an international welcoming committee and a red carpet party on the arrival tarmac.  Flight guests and Torontonians will be feted later this evening, as Virgin America takes over the trendy new spot to see and be seen – The Thompson Toronto – for a launch party that may just cause an international incident.    

"Virgin America is adding direct connections between California and Toronto and doing it in style", added Lloyd McCoomb, President and CEO of the Greater Toronto Airports Authority.  "We are thrilled to welcome another airline to Toronto and look forward to working with Virgin America.  The connections between Toronto, San Francisco and Los Angeles make perfect sense, and it is wonderful to have Virgin America connecting our great cities."

In addition to being a good time, the Toronto launch will help do some good:  by raising funds for Virgin Unite and mentoring some aspiring entrepreneurs along the way – literally.  Sir Richard, Eric Ryan (Co-Founder of eco-friendly cleaning product company Method), Jason Pomeranc (Thompson Hotel Group Founder) and other outside-the-box business leaders, will host "airplane pitch" sessions with young entrepreneurs en route from SFO to YYZ.  Also today, Virgin America kicks off its search for the "Virgin America Toronto Provocateur" who is Virgin enough to represent the airline in Toronto.  For every entry, the airline will raise funds for Virgin Unite's Young Entrepreneurs, which provides training and seed funds to disadvantaged young people.  

"Trade, travel, and innovation are keys to one of the closest bilateral relationships in history, and more connections mean more prosperity," said U.S. Consul General Kevin Johnson, who helps welcome the Virgin America flight to Toronto today.  "Vibrant, diverse, and already a gateway to much of the U.S. and the world, Toronto and Ontario are natural partners for California, where ideas and dreams are born."

Virgin America's Toronto service began on June 23, however the celebratory first flight occurs today due to G8/G20 summit events.  Virgin America flies to San Francisco, Los Angeles, New York, Washington D.C., Seattle, Las Vegas, San Diego, Boston, Fort Lauderdale, Toronto, and starting in the fall of 2010 – Orlando.

SOURCE Virgin America

The go-to airport for diverted flights

Hotel Cooking up Meals on Hot Lava

Moscow 'two different worlds'

Hard Rock Hotel Singapore Opens at Resorts World Sentosa

HARD ROCK'S NEWEST LOCATION WILL OFFER GUESTS A LUXURY ENVIRONMENT COMBINED WITH A UNIQUE MUSIC VIBE

Hard Rock International proudly announces the opening of Hard Rock Hotel Singapore.  Launched with a ceremonial lion dance and ribbon-cutting, the luxurious, 360-room hotel is part of Resorts World Sentosa, a US $4.4 billion resort destination on Sentosa Island.

Opened in January 2010, the 49-hectare Resorts World Sentosa is Singapore's first integrated family resort destination, complete with Southeast Asia's first and only Universal Studios theme park, the world's largest Marine Life Park, six unique hotels offering 1,800 rooms, more than 60 dining outlets and a casino.

Hard Rock properties offer stylish and contemporary design, unparalleled service and the thread that unites them all - music. The properties are situated in resort destinations with unique character and tourist appeal as well as in urban gateway cities. Hard Rock Hotels cater to the evolving and distinctive needs of today's experienced, modern travelers, who seek a reprieve from traditional, predictable properties, whether for business or leisure travel. 

"The highly anticipated Hard Rock Hotel Singapore is a welcome addition to the Hard Rock Hotel portfolio," says Hamish Dodds, President and Chief Executive Officer, Hard Rock International.  "This development and our relationship with Genting Group and Resorts World complement Hard Rock Hotel's expansion strategy in premier locations worldwide, and will serve as a perfect backdrop for the continued growth of Hard Rock's portfolio."

The Hard Rock Hotel Singapore, a nearly $223 million venture, is one of six unique destination hotels at Resorts World Sentosa, which include Festive Hotel, Crockfords Tower, Hotel Michael, Equarius Hotel and Spa Villas. The hotel offers 360 keys (including nine suites and 351 rooms), modern conference facilities with 26 meeting rooms and Asia's largest column-free ballrooms with seating for 7,300 guests.  Featuring the latest in audio-visual equipment, the ballroom will be an ideal venue for concerts, seminars, performances and banquets and can be further subdivided into smaller ballrooms or separate conference halls for more intimate affairs.  The Rock Pool, a quintessential Hard Rock element, is a focal area for both music and relaxation, as well as a social gathering place.

The Hard Rock Hotel guest rooms incorporate Hard Rock's tradition of providing luxury, quality service and amenities with a distinctive music edge.   A retreat for chic jet-setters, Hard Rock Hotel Singapore is also the perfect family destination.  Deluxe twin rooms can accommodate up to five guests, with an extra pull-out bed for kids.

The hotel offers destination dining venues and high-energy bar locations providing both locals and hotel guests a place to see and be seen. Starz Restaurant, a stylish modern restaurant designed in contemporary style, offers a relaxing al fresco dining area overlooking the Rock Pool.  Inspired by the healthy and energetic lifestyle of Singapore, the restaurant's buffet-style dining with live cooking stations complements an A la Carte menu with the culinary flavors of Morocco, Europe, Middle East and Australia.  The Rock Bar, located on the second level of the hotel, is a trendy lounge and bar complete with a DJ spinning rock and techno music.  The menu features a selection of premium wines, liquors and champagnes, as well as Hard Rock's famous cocktails.  Finally, the award-winning Rang Mahal Group's latest dining concept of Indian cuisine is housed at the Hard Rock Hotel Singapore.  With the dining mood and decor inspired by the colorful celebrations of India using vivid colors and ethnic Indian instruments, the stylish restaurant pays tribute to "a celebration of Indian cuisine" with its menu highlighting classical Indian favorites as well as new, trendy dishes that embody the new generation of fusion flavors.

Chief Executive Officer of Resorts World Sentosa, Mr. Tan Hee Teck said, "We are excited to welcome our guests to the renowned Hard Rock Hotel in Singapore.  As a family destination with two of Asia's largest attractions, Universal Studios Singapore and the Marine Life Park, we believe that Hard Rock Hotel adds not only sizzle to our appeal, but excitement to accommodation options in the region.''   

"The Seminole Tribe of Florida is excited about the opening of our newest Hard Rock development in Southeast Asia," noted Jim Allen, CEO of Seminole Gaming and Chairman of Hard Rock International. "It's a testament to the brand that we have such incredible strategic partners and ample opportunity for global growth in emerging locations."

SOURCE Hard Rock International

LAN Peru Announces Service From San Francisco to Peru

LAN Airlines and its affiliates' fourth U.S. gateway will offer the only non-stop service from San Francisco to South America

LAN Peru – an affiliate of LAN Airlines - will initiate operations to Peru out of San Francisco. The company will offer four flights per week to Lima on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday.

LAN Peru's new service from San Francisco to Lima offers passengers connecting service to multiple destinations in the region including Sao Paulo, Brazil; Buenos Aires, Argentina; and Santiago, Chile.

"The announcement of LAN Peru's new service between SFO and Lima opens the gateway for an unprecedented expansion of economic and cultural ties between North and South America," said San Francisco Mayor Gavin Newsom.  "The additional passengers and commerce that this new service brings to the Bay Area is extremely positive news during these challenging economic times."

San Francisco will become LAN Airlines and its affiliates' fourth U.S. gateway, in addition to New York, Los Angeles and Miami.

"This announcement represents LAN and its affiliates' continued commitment to growth in North America and expanding the travel options available to its passengers in this market," said Pablo Yunis, Vice President of North America and the Caribbean for LAN Airlines.

The new route will continue to support the growth of tourism to the region, considering that it will be the only nonstop flight connecting San Francisco with South America, offering passengers more options for travel to unique destinations like Machu Picchu, Patagonia, as well as Easter Island and Iguazu Falls.

The company will service this route on modern Boeing 767-300s with long-haul reach and a capacity for 221 passengers. These aircraft offer LAN's Premium Business cabin that includes full flat, 180 degree reclining seats with a completely horizontal sleeping option that only a select group of airlines in the world offer, in addition to a renovated Economy class. In both classes of services, passengers have access to a modern entertainment system that offers one of the most diverse audio and video on-demand programming in the world.

SOURCE LAN Airlines

StudentUniverse.com Celebrates 10th Anniversary and Airfare Discounts for Expanded Age Group

Celebrating its 10th anniversary in 2010, leading online student and faculty travel provider StudentUniverse.com announced today it will extend its discounted travel services to a broader range of young travelers.  The new StudentUniverse.com Youth Travel Discounts will enable travelers ages 18-25 – high school students right through recent college grads – to save money on airfares across the US and around the world.

StudentUniverse.com works directly with airlines to broker deals specifically for youth travelers, often resulting in the discounted domestic and international airfares.  StudentUniverse.com started out with only a couple of partner airlines, and has over the years built relationships with thirty-five airline partners.  Currently, StudentUniverse works with most of the major airlines.  

"The marketplace of young travelers has grown over the past decade and today's students are savvy travelers looking to go farther on less," said Atle Skalleberg, Vice President of Marketing at StudentUniverse.  "We're excited to be able to extend StudentUniverse's discount travel services to a broader range of young travelers and offer some truly unique deals to great destinations in honor of our 10th year as the leader in online student travel."

StudentUniverse.com has grown significantly since the website was launched ten years ago. Now millions of students use StudentUniverse.com every year, and in 2009's fourth quarter, alone, new members grew by 32%.  

SOURCE StudentUniverse.com

The Dominican Republic (DR) Ministry of Tourism Reassures Visitors Punta Cana, La Romana, Samana, Puerto Plata and Other Cities are Receiving Tourists

The Dominican Republic (DR) Ministry of Tourism assures visitors that all of its cities, tourism and resort areas are conducting normal business operations. Also, the DR government, consulates and embassies are working diligently with the international community on Haiti earthquake relief. Millions of Dominicans have donated time, money, supplies and expertise to help Haiti in these critical hours of need.

All of the tourist areas, hotels, resorts, airports and seaports are open and receiving visitors. The DR experienced no damage from the quake or its aftershocks. Major tourism regions Punta Cana and La Romana on the East Coast, as well as Samana and Puerto Plata along the North Coast are welcoming winter season tourists from all over the world.

The southern region of the DR has been a stable staging area for the Haiti relief effort and a reliable alternative route into Haiti. Three key airports and a roadway in the DR's southern region are being used to receive international relief supplies through mostly rural areas of the DR not frequented by visitors. The DR government has stationed military, police and immigration officials along the DR border reinforcing relief efforts to help Haiti. The DR has strong border control permitting only crossings for humanitarian reasons, while also sending critical supplies, equipment, medical experts and millions of dollars for food and relief kitchens directly to Port-au-Prince.

The DR shares the eastern third of the Island of Hispaniola with Haiti. Punta Cana, the major global tourism destination in the DR is located approximately 400 miles (633 kilometers) east of Haiti's capital, or a 10-12 hour drive, with numerous mountain ranges separating the two countries.

DR Tourism Update:

1. All of the DR's eight international airports are open and receiving commercial flights. All flights in/out of the DR are running smoothly.
2. All of the DR's cruise terminals, seaports and marinas are open, operating effectively and receiving visitors.
3. All of the DR's beaches, hotels, resorts and tourism businesses are conducting normal business operations.
4. The DR is providing some space at strategically located key airports however this is not disrupting commercial flights.
5. The DR did not experience any damage from the secondary aftershock that occurred Thursday morning.
6. The DR has strong border control with military, police, medical and international aid officials helping Haitians.
7. The DR's security, health, communication and transportation systems are all operating normally and effectively.

SOURCE Dominican Republic Ministry of Tourism

France is World's Best Place to Live, U.S. Drops to #7, Says International Living

Ernest Hemingway did it. So did Julia Child and patriots like Benjamin Franklin and Thomas Jefferson.

Humorist David Sedaris is doing it now, as are Johnny Depp, and Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie, along with their six children.

These famous Americans all found the "good life" in France. And, it seems, so are many other less-famous Americans, including retirees and families.

Nearly a decade ago, Elizabeth Bonner moved to France with her husband and children. She's never looked back, and the family has now renovated two historic chateaus in the French countryside.

"It has turned out to be a glorious undertaking," Bonner says. "We sit on our veranda on mild nights and are amazed by the brilliance of the stars. And we find ourselves continually amused, enriched, and surprised by the experience of French life."

The "bon vivant" that France offers has led to its # 1 ranking as the best place in the world to live. That's according to International Living magazine (www.internationalliving.com), which has been analyzing data and publishing its annual Quality of Life Index for 30 years now.

For the fifth year running, says publisher Jackie Flynn, France has again earned the top spot as the best place in the world to live.

"In France, life is savored," says Flynn. "I don't think anyone will argue that France is one of the most beautiful countries in the world, where there is so much pride in all the small details. The French love little window boxes filled with flowers, tidy gardens, pretty sidewalk cafes, and clean streets. Cities are well tended and with little crime."

This year once again, says Flynn, all the number-crunching, rating, and ranking landed France at the top of the Index. France scores high marks across the board, from health care (100 points) to infrastructure (92 points) to its safety rating (100 points). But the main appeal of living in France, she says, is arguably its overall lifestyle. (It scores 81 points in the Culture and Leisure category.)

And despite high scores in nearly every category, France remains an affordable place to live, including for retirees on a budget. Flynn says that although Paris offers the best of everything, services don't fall away in Alsace's wine villages, in wild and lovely Corsica, and in other provinces like lavender-scented Provence or seaside Languedoc.

And in fact, she says, provincial French properties are often quite affordable and lifestyles are less expensive than Paris. "The Southwestern Midi-Pyrenees region is a particularly good hunting ground for village homes for less than $100,000 and classic three-course lunches for $14."

Following France in the number one spot are Australia (#2), Switzerland (#3), Germany (#4), New Zealand (#5), Luxembourg (#6), the U.S. (#7), Belgium (#8), Canada (#9), and Italy (#10).

"It's evident from our compilation that the British Commonwealth countries of Australia, New Zealand and Canada are doing very well, and despite the bumps in the road have managed dependable economic performance," Flynn says. "Australia moved from fifth place last year into second place this year, largely thanks to its remarkable economic recovery. It's already officially out of recession."

Overall though, European countries slipped a little in International Living's rankings this year, Flynn says, with the exceptions of France and Germany.

"Germany is taking giant strides toward economic recovery. And as for France, it ranks well in every category. It has a stable economy, top-notch health care, and an overall wonderful quality of life. No one can dispute its dominance in cultural offerings."

Why did the U.S. fall from its rank at number three last year to number seven this year?

"Although the U.S. remains in the top 10," says Flynn, "We can't ignore the state of its economy. In this category, the U.S. scored 67 points in 2010 up from 57 last year but it's still mired in recession, and in sector after sector the cost of sustaining the 'American Dream' has escalated out of the reach of many. The U.S. remains an excellent place to live, especially in terms of convenience, but it's generally more expensive to live there now than it has been in years past."

In 2010, Flynn says International Living will continue to focus on several countries, where you can achieve both a high standard and a low cost of living. In addition to France and Italy (#s 1 and 10 on the Quality of Life Index), these countries include Ecuador (#39); Panama (#34); Uruguay (#19); Belize (#63) Costa Rica (#33) and Mexico (#46).

To compile the Quality of Life Index, says Flynn, International Living editors compare almost 200 countries in nine categories: Cost of Living, Culture and Leisure, Economy, Environment, Freedom, Health, Infrastructure, Safety and Risk, and Climate. Data from government sources and resources like the World Health Organization and The Economist, are analyzed, and information is gathered from International Living's many editors and correspondents around the world.

To see the complete scores for every country in every category, go to: www.internationalliving.com/qofl-data

SOURCE International Living

Continental Airlines Launches New Service to Fiji

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

Continental Airlines begins new nonstop service from Honolulu and its Guam hub to Nadi, Fiji on Friday, Dec. 18, 2009.

"Nadi is a popular vacation spot that attracts visitors from around the world and fits well with our portfolio of destinations throughout the Pacific," said Jim Compton, Continental's executive vice president of marketing. "We've scheduled the Fiji flights to conveniently connect with Continental's flights from the U.S. mainland, Japan and Micronesia."

Continental serves more destinations in the Pacific than any other U.S. carrier. In addition to the new Fiji service, Continental operates twice-daily flights between Houston and Honolulu, daily flights between New York, Los Angeles and Honolulu and between Honolulu at Guam, and three-times-weekly service between Honolulu and the Marshall Islands and Federated States of Micronesia.

During the busy holiday travel season, Continental will operate a third daily flight between Houston and Honolulu. Beginning March 7, 2010, Continental will add daily service between Los Angeles and Maui and Orange County and Honolulu, and four-times-weekly service between Orange County and Maui.

The new Fiji service is operated by Continental Micronesia using two-cabin Boeing 737-800 aircraft with 155 seats.

The flights from Honolulu International Airport (HNL) operate on Mondays and Fridays departing at 6:55 p.m. and arriving in Nadi International Airport (NAN) at 12:40 a.m. two calendar days later after crossing the International Date Line. Return flights operate on Tuesdays and Saturdays departing Nadi at 9:50 a.m. and arriving in Honolulu at 5:25 p.m. the previous day.

The flights from Guam's A.B. Won Pat International Airport (GUM) operate on Mondays and Fridays departing at 10:55 p.m. and arriving at Nadi at 8:30 a.m. the next morning. Return flights operate on Wednesdays and Sundays departing Nadi at 1:40 a.m. and arriving in Guam at 5:10 a.m. the same day.

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 2,400 daily departures throughout the Americas, Europe and Asia, serving 130 domestic and 132 international destinations. Continental is a member of Star Alliance, which provides access to more than 900 additional points in 169 countries via 24 other member airlines. With more than 41,000 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.

SOURCE Continental Airlines

Taj Hotels Resorts & Palaces Recognized yet Again by Leading Hotels of the World for 2009

 Taj Hotels Resorts & Palaces has been once again recognized for its excellence and service for its properties - Taj Exotica Resort & Spa, Maldives and Taj West End Bangalore - at the Leading Hotels of the World Annual Convention held in Venice, Italy in November 2009. The high standards of these hotels and their commitment to excellence has been identified post a rigorous, anonymous inspection covering hundreds of meticulous criteria spanning from product to behavioral standards.

Taj Exotica Resort & Spa, Maldives sets a new benchmark of excellence, winning the eighth annual Commitment to Quality Award in the Asia Pacific region and receiving the Grand Prize Winner award for displaying outstanding levels of quality in all elements of a luxury hotel experience.

The Taj West End, Bangalore has been presented the Fourth Annual Commitment to Excellence Awards, acknowledging hotels whose concept of service and makes an exceptional effort towards community development and extending beyond service, to areas of the environment, community outreach and cultural support.

Taj Exotica Resort and Spa, Maldives seamlessly extends the magic of the island's blessed natural beauty in its design even as it offers the finest contemporary luxuries and services. This award winning resort scored an overall average of 95.6%, the highest rating within the Leading Quality Assurance audit. The property has exceeded expectations over and above the 450 + members within the group and was recognized as a Grand Prize Winner. Situated in the middle of one of the largest lagoons in the Maldives, Taj Exotica Resort & Spa, Maldives is an intimate and romantic island resort lush with tropical plants and encircled with clear blue waters. The resort has implemented a range of initiatives to substantially reduce its carbon foot print and has the distinction of being Maldives first Green Globe Certified resort. Over the last year, the resort has introduced numerous culinary offerings and revitalized accommodation with private pools being added to all of the Deluxe Lagoon Villas. The piece de resistance is the Jiva Grande Spa - a private island sanctuary offering a range of Indian wellness signature treatments and rituals.

Taj West End, Bangalore has welcomed guests for over a century and is more a legend than a hotel. Nestled in the midst of 20 acres of magnificent gardens, it is an experience of luxury in refined style and warm relaxed comfort. Going beyond its purview of hospitality, the hotel has engaged in community development keeping in line with the existing Taj corporate policy. The policy lays emphasis on creating sustainable livelihoods and building community through social outreach programs in Health, Education, Empowerment of Women & Youth, and Employee Volunteering. The main causes include reducing malnutrition, promoting indigenous artisans and craftsmen and increasing employability by sharing of Taj's core competencies. Taj Hotels encourage disability recruitment and empowerment of candidates from vulnerable socio-economic backgrounds. These can be measured in terms of their having more lasting benefits, of building a sustainable environment by reducing the impact of daily operations on the environment, by improving operational efficiencies, resource conservation & usage of renewable resources.

The Taj West End, Bangalore has also received top honors in the prestigious "Conde Nast Readers Travel Awards 2009" by being listed amongst the top 10 overseas Business hotels in World.

The Leading Hotels of the World, Ltd. is the prestigious luxury hospitality organization representing more than 450 of the world's finest hotels, resorts and spas, and is the operator of http://www.lhw.com and http://www.lhwspas.com. As the largest international luxury hotel brand, the firm maintains offices in more than 22 major markets across the globe.

SOURCE The Indian Hotels Company Limited

SuperShuttle to Open Airport Transportation in Paris

 SuperShuttle, the largest shared ride airport transportation service in the U.S., just launched its first international service in Paris, France. The new service is available from Charles de Gaulle (CDG) - main international airport, ORLY (ORY) and the local airport Beauvais (BVA) to anywhere in Paris including hotels, local residences, and Disneyland Paris.

1. Service: all three Paris airports, seven train stations and Disneyland Paris
2. Shared ride and private transfer
3. Comfortable new, air-conditioned vehicles
4. Service is by reservation only
5. Currently reservations can be made online through the French website www.supershuttleparis.fr or by phone during the hours of 1:00 AM - 3:00 PM Eastern Standard Time: Tel: +33 1 43 65 55 55
6. Reservations must be made 24 hours prior to travel

US customers traveling to Paris will be able to book reservations through the U.S. SuperShuttle website and call center in early 2010.

Pricing for Paris will be the same whether your destination is a hotel, residence, office or train station. The fare to or from Charles de Gaulle and Paris city center is 27 EUR for the first passenger and 17 EUR per additional adult in the same party. Children under 12 are priced at 12 EUR per child. Veolia Transport, headquartered in Paris, bought SuperShuttle International in 2006 and started Veolia Transportation On Demand headquartered in Scottsdale, AZ. This is the first expansion for SuperShuttle in the international market and Veolia chose its hometown of Paris for the first international rollout.

SuperShuttle International, based in Phoenix, AZ, is a division of Veolia Transportation On Demand and a subsidiary of Veolia Environment (Euronext: VIE, VE). SuperShuttle serves 33 airports, carrying more than eight million passengers a year. Airports served by SuperShuttle include some of the largest in the country including Los Angeles, New York, Dallas/Ft. Worth, Washington, D.C. and Miami. Please go to www.supershuttle.com for more information.

SOURCE SuperShuttle International

United to Introduce Three New Countries to Global Network

New service to Ghana, Nigeria and Kingdom of Bahrain to begin in spring 2010

United to add nonstop service between Chicago and Brussels

United Airlines announced today the airline will inaugurate its first-ever service to Africa in 2010, with one daily, same-plane service from Washington to Accra, Ghana, and Lagos, Nigeria. The airline also will extend its existing daily Washington-Kuwait flight to include Bahrain, and will offer a new non-stop flight between Chicago and Brussels, Belgium. Introduction of all of the new services is subject to government approval.

"Our first-ever non-stop service to Africa will offer customers convenient and comfortable travel opportunities to visit two of the fastest-growing cities in the continent," says Kevin Knight, senior vice president of planning. "In addition, our new services to Bahrain and Brussels will open more international routes to our customers throughout Europe and the Middle East."

The new routes are consistent with the 2010 capacity outlook United provided on its third quarter earnings conference call, and reflect the continuing optimization of United's international network.

Africa

Daily non-stop service from Washington Dulles to Accra, the capital of the west African nation of Ghana, begins on May 2. The flight will continue from Accra to Lagos, Nigeria. The return flight will operate from Lagos to Accra and Washington. The flights, which will be available for sale this fall, will be operated by Boeing 767 aircraft on the following schedule:

     Schedule                        Depart        Arrive        Start Date

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

    United 990 Washington to Accra   10:10 p.m.    12:40 p.m.*   May 2, 2010

    United 990 Accra to Lagos        2:20 p.m.     4:25 p.m.     May 3, 2010

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

    United 991 Lagos to Accra        9:15 p.m.     9:20 p.m.     May 3, 2010

    United 991 Accra to Washington   11:00 p.m.    6.25 a.m.*    May 3, 2010

    * indicates next day arrival

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

"I am delighted that United Airlines, a global leader in the airline industry, has demonstrated the economic wisdom to expand its routes to include destinations in Africa," said U.S. Rep. Bobby Rush of Illinois. "African economies are among the fastest growing in the world, registering nearly six percent overall economic growth in 2007, the highest in 20 years. United's new routes are an important element in advancing the mutual trade interests of the United States and Africa and I am encouraged by the prospects for enhanced economic prosperity for the three nations."

Middle East

On April 18, United will launch the only same-plane service operated from the Western Hemisphere to the Kingdom of Bahrain. United's existing non-stop service from Washington Dulles to Kuwait will continue to Bahrain, with the return flight also stopping in Kuwait before continuing to Washington.

Flights will be operated by Boeing 777 aircraft on the following schedule:

    Schedule                        Depart     Arrive     Start Date

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

    United 982 Washington to Kuwait 6:12 p.m.  1:35 p.m.* Existing Service

    United 982 Kuwait to Bahrain    2:50 p.m.  3:55 p.m.  April 18, 2010

    United 981 Bahrain to Kuwait    9:25 p.m.  10:30 p.m. April 18, 2010

    United 981 Kuwait to Washington 11:45 p.m. 6:47 a.m.* Existing Service

    * indicates next day arrival

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

The Accra/Lagos and Kuwait/Bahrain flights are conveniently timed for connections at Washington Dulles, United's principal transatlantic gateway, to and from dozens of cities throughout the Americas. United offers more than 275 daily departures from Washington Dulles to more than 90 cities.

"We are delighted with United's announcement," said Leo Schefer, president of the Washington Airports Task Force. "Service to a new international market expands a region's trading horizon and increases its competitiveness as a business location and tourist destination."

Brussels

Additionally, United will inaugurate non-stop service between Chicago and Brussels on March 28, offering convenient connections on Brussels Airlines - which joins the Star Alliance on Dec. 9 - to points in Europe and Africa. The Chicago-Brussels services also are timed to offer convenient connections at Chicago O'Hare to and from dozens of cities in the United States, Canada and Mexico. As the largest airline in Chicago, United offers more than 570 daily departures to more than 130 cities worldwide. Chicago-Brussels flights will be operated by Boeing 767 aircraft on the following schedule:

    Schedule                        Depart        Arrive        Start Date

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

    United 972 Chicago to Brussels  6 p.m.        9:20 a.m.     March 28, 2010

    United 973 Brussels to Chicago  11 a.m.       1:15 p.m.     March 29, 2010

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

United will continue to offer non-stop service between Washington and Brussels.

Customers seated in United First and United Business cabins aboard all transoceanic B767 flights enjoy United's International Premier Travel Experience, which includes lie-flat seats, iPod connectivity, more than 150 hours of movies and television shows on-demand, and a selection of appetizers and entrees designed by world-renowned chef Charlie Trotter. United's B777 aircraft will be outfitted with new United First and United Business cabins in 2010 and 2011.

Source: United Airlines

W Hotels Worldwide Opens First Western European Hotel with the New W Barcelona

A Flagship for W Hotels Globally, W Barcelona is the Latest in the Brand’s Continued Expansion to Become a Global Powerhouse, Including Upcoming Openings in London, and Paris

 

W Hotels Worldwide, the hotel category buster and industry innovator, today unveils a global brand flagship hotel, W Barcelona. An icon of stunning architecture rising high above the Mediterranean in Spain’s most dynamic and stylish city, W Barcelona is designed by world-renowned Spanish architect Ricardo Bofill. Situated at Nova Bocana, where the glamorous Barceloneta beach boardwalk commences, the hotel has a commanding presence against Barcelona’s magnificent waterfront and skyline, and has already made its mark as a landmark in an ambitious urban renewal plan for Barcelona’s coastline. The 26-story, slender, sail-shaped W Barcelona sits perpendicular to the dock, showcasing unprecedented sea and city views from virtually every guest room. Global jetsetters and local tastemakers are already referring to the curved sandy and very exclusive bay adjacent to the hotel as Barcelona’s very own “Copacabana,” a reference that alludes to W Barcelona’s passion for design and fashion, which will be the key brand differentiators for this emblematic destination.

“Taking the W brand into the dynamic city of Barcelona, a European hub known for fashion, design and architecture, will mark a true milestone in W Hotels’ global expansion into the world’s most exciting and vibrant destinations,” said Eva Ziegler, Global Brand Leader, W Hotels Worldwide and Le Méridien. “W Barcelona offers stunning architecture and innovative design from Ricardo Bofill, a renowned architect. His leading-edge design will set a dramatic stage for the W brand’s unique lifestyle positioning, soon to become a true flagship hotel for the W brand, offering insider access to a world of Wow.”

Through W Hotels’ unique and distinctive programming, W Barcelona will provide a contemporary lifestyle experience with a complete service offer. The hotel will feature 473 guest rooms, including 67 suites, two WOW suites and one Extreme WOW suite. W Barcelona will also offer guests Spain’s first Bliss® Spa; a signature restaurant by famed Michelin-Star rated and acclaimed Catalan Chef, Carles Abellan, featuring unparalleled views of the Barcelona shoreline; Eclipse, a glamorous rooftop bar with stunning vistas over the Mediterranean from London-based nightlife gurus, Ignite Group (the creative minds behind famed London nightclub, Boujis); the signature W lounge welcome experience featuring W BAR for cocktails and WAVE Restaurant; WET, a glamorous infinity-edged pool and bar, all surrounded by multiple sun terraces, inspiring exterior lounge decks, fully equipped cabanas, and one ultra-exclusive Extreme WOW Cabana with Jacuzzi and lounge deck. The hotel also features SWEAT state-of-the-art fitness facility outfitted with Technogym equipment featuring panoramic views of the Mediterranean, complemented by resident DJ sets to inspire high energy work out sessions.

W Barcelona features spectacular public spaces with more than 2,500 square metres of ultra-modern meeting and event space, including a unique Great Room (W Hotels’ interpretation of a ballroom) with breathtaking, unobstructed sea views, making W Barcelona more than the ultimate insider escape but also an ideal hotel for special events, meetings and celebrations. All of these offerings will be supported by the W brand’s signature Whatever/Whenever® service promise, providing guests whatever they want – from a private chartered yacht excursion along the Mediterranean coastline to an insider shopping spree from the vintage Catalan fashions to the latest Spanish designers – whenever they want it (as long as it’s legal!).

“W Barcelona is now the third W Hotel in Europe, Africa and the Middle East, following the openings of W Istanbul and W Doha Hotel & Residences earlier this year,” said Roeland Vos, President, Starwood Hotels & Resorts, EAME. “The W brand continues its fantastic growth and is on track to open ten more W Hotels in some of the region’s most sought after destinations, including London, Paris, and Milan.”

W Barcelona is at the beginning of the world-famous boardwalk La Barceloneta, first-class restaurants of Port Vell, pristine beaches and water sports of Puerto Olimpico, and a short stroll from the romantic cafés, fashionable shops and innovative nightlife options of Barcelona’s Old Town and Las Ramblas. The only hotel in Barcelona with direct access to the beach, W Barcelona anchors Passeig de Joan de Borbó, a massive redevelopment project slated to bring luxury retail, office and entertainment venues to this dynamic area.

W Barcelona is accepting reservations, including group arrivals and event bookings, from today onwards. To celebrate this divine debut, W Barcelona has introduced an exclusive opening offer for guests, providing a taste of W Hotels’ insider contemporary lifestyle experience. Starting at €249, the opening offer includes two welcome cocktails, daily breakfast for two, complimentary appetizer or dessert with dinner at W Barcelona’s signature restaurant, Bliss® Spa gift set, VIP access to Eclipse, the hotel’s rooftop destination bar, and an upgrade from a Wonderful Room to the next available room type. This limited celebratory offer is valid for stays between October 1, 2009 and February 27, 2010.

Starwood Hotels & Resorts has a commanding presence in Spain with six of its nine world-class brands represented, including Westin, Le Méridien, The Luxury Collection, St. Regis, Sheraton, and now W Hotels. The grand hotels that make up Starwood’s Spanish portfolio include The Westin Palace Madrid, Marqués de Riscal, A Luxury Collection (Rioja), Hotel Alfonso XIII, A Luxury Collection Hotel (Seville), and Arabella Golf & Spa Resort (Mallorca).

Source: Starwood Hotels & Resorts

Lufthansa Flights from 12 JetBlue Cities Now Available for Sale

Fly from Buffalo to Budapest, Tampa to Tel Aviv, or San Juan to St. Petersburg

Lufthansa codeshare flights from a dozen JetBlue cities in the U.S. and Puerto Rico are now available for sale at www.lufthansa.com. The codeshare agreement, which was recently approved by the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT), provides JetBlue customers with convenient connections to Lufthansa's worldwide network of over 400 destinations in 100 countries. JetBlue travelers will enjoy one-stop reservations and seamless baggage transfers on flights departing from:

• Austin, Texas
• Buffalo, NY
• Fort Lauderdale, FL.
• Fort Myers, FL
• New Orleans, LA
• Pittsburgh, PA
• Raleigh/Durham, NC
• Rochester, NY
• San Juan, Puerto Rico
• Syracuse, NY
• Tampa, FL
• West Palm Beach, FL

Travelers flying JetBlue from these cities will be able to connect via New York/JFK or Boston onto Lufthansa flights bound for Germany and beyond, including top cities like Delhi, Madrid, Rome, Tel Aviv and Zurich. Flights are bookable on lufthansa.com, via a link on www.jetblue.com, or through local and online travel agencies. Codeshare operations will commence November 11, 2009.

"We look forward to welcoming JetBlue customers onboard with exciting international fares and our high-quality service -- two things which perfectly complement the JetBlue travel experience," said Jens Bischof, Vice President, the Americas at Lufthansa. "Travelers of both airlines now have even more travel options available to them with a more convenient transfer process at JFK and Boston airports," Bischof added.

Sample round-trip fares include: (*valid for purchase Oct. 1-5, 2009; includes fuel surcharge, excludes taxes and fees - restrictions apply)

"We're thrilled to be partnering with Lufthansa to give JetBlue customers even more choice in international travel," said Robin Hayes, JetBlue's Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer. "As Europe's largest airline, Lufthansa offers unrivaled connections throughout the continent and onward to Africa, the Middle East and Asia. No matter where you're headed, JetBlue and Lufthansa can now take you there in comfort and style."

In January 2008, the two airlines entered into an agreement under which Deutsche Lufthansa AG purchased an ownership interest in JetBlue Airways Corporation. For reservations, visit lufthansa.com, JetBlue, or your local travel agency.

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 .

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.

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.

First Holiday Inn to open in the Maldives

Holiday Inn Malé - the First International-Class Hotel in the Capital City

The Maldives will see the opening of the first international-class hotel for its capital city, Malé. The 117-room Holiday Inn Malé will open on 1 September 2009. At 15 storeys, Holiday Inn Malé is the city's newest and tallest hotel in the Maldives and in a 750-kilometre radius, commanding an unrivalled view of the harbour and beyond.

Just a short, five-minute speedboat ride from the international airport, the hotel will offer world-class meetings and conference facilities, food and beverage outlets, extensive recreation and leading-edge communication facilities. Located on the corner of Ameer Ahmed Magu, Holiday Inn Malé lies near the harbourfront, shops and markets and within a short walking distance to the various historical places of interest like the Old Friday Mosque, Sultan Park and The Presidential Palace. The hotel provides the perfect gateway to holidaymakers heading out to outlying resort islands.

Sporting the new livery, quality facilities and service of the global Holiday Inn brand family, Holiday Inn Malé boasts of 117 stylish rooms which include 17 Superior Rooms, 77 Deluxe Rooms, 13 Deluxe Ocean view Rooms, 9 Premiere Rooms and a Presidential Suite. All rooms feature either a king bed or two twin beds and offer amenities such as broadband Internet, LCD TVs, minibar, complimentary tea/coffee making facilities and in-room safes. As for dining and entertainment, there is a Lobby Café, an all day dining restaurant, a rooftop restaurant offering European/Japanese fusion cuisine and a 24 hour in-room dining.

The hotel also has a rooftop swimming pool, a well equipped fitness centre and the first branded Spa in Malé, Coconut Spa. Other full range of activities include scuba diving and snorkeling, big game fishing, island excursions and picnics, Malé city tour, photo flights, resort day visits, submarine trips and others.

For corporate meetings, there are four versatile meeting rooms including the Grand Ballroom offering 255 square metres of space, all equipped with the latest technology. They provide the ideal space for a range of function requirements: from seminars, board meetings and exhibitions, to wedding banquets and private celebrations catering for up to 180 persons, banquet style, or 240 for a reception.

"Holiday Inn Malé will offer leisure and corporate guests alike a perfect place to relax in comfort or conduct business with ease," said Jolyon Bulley, vice president operations, South East and South West Asia, IHG Asia Australasia. "As the first IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group) hotel in the Maldives, this represents an important milestone for IHG. It presents not only a strategic opportunity for the group to contribute to the thriving tourism industry in Maldives, but also play a significant role within the Malé community."

Seawings Soars on 2009 Stay-at-Home Holiday Trend

It is estimated that approximately one in three UAE residents will spend their summer holidays in the country in 2009 compared with one in 10 in the previous three years as cheaper deals keep residents at home. As a result, Seawings, the only seaplane tour operator in the Middle East, sees a spike in local interest in their scenic flights of the region.

Local and regional tourism experts are predicting that around 31 percent of UAE residents will choose to spend their summer vacation in the country compared to the 11 percent seen over the last three years. "Our customers are predominantly tourists visiting Dubai, but we are currently seeing a trend in higher domestic bookings." said Stuart Wheeler, CEO of Seawings.

Dubai hotels are offering good prices and various value added packages, which means that local tourism is bound to grow. Offering more value to residents is important, therefore, Seawings has decided to offer a special promotion over the summer months, Seawings customers can benefit from a buy-one-get-one-free flight experience to the East and North Coast Emirates of Fujairah and Ras Al Khaimah when booking directly with Seawings. The summer promotion will run until the end of September 2009.

Seawings packages are priced from AED 895 per flight and include views of Dubai's most iconic landmarks including Palm Jumeirah, The World Islands, Burj Al Arab, and the historic Dubai Creek.

Information on packages and bookings are available on the website http://www.seawings.ae and can be booked through the Seawings reservation team +971-4-883-2999.

Holiday Inn Relaunches 1000th Hotel

New Holiday Inn Express in Times Square, New York, opens as part of the biggest  relaunch in hospitality history

IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group), the world's largest hotel company, today announced the opening of its 1000^th relaunched Holiday Inn hotel - the Holiday Inn Express New York City Times Square.

The $1 billion relaunch of Holiday Inn is the largest in the history of the hospitality industry, with over 3,200 hotels around the world being updated - improving quality and driving consistency at Holiday Inn and Holiday Inn Express hotels from Boston to Beijing.

In addition to the 3,200 open hotels there are a further 1,050 in the development pipeline, due to open with the relaunched branding in the next 3-4 years. The relaunch programme, combined with new openings and continued removal of lower quality hotels, will completely rejuvenate the Holiday Inn estate over the next few years.

Andy Cosslett, IHG's CEO said "The opening of our 1000^th relaunched Holiday Inn hotel is the latest milestone on our 3 year journey and demonstrates the momentum behind the programme. Despite the tough economic climate, we've relaunched, on average, 4 hotels a day for the past 6 months and we're committed to completing the global relaunch by the end of 2010.

Relaunched hotels are benefitting from improved guest satisfaction and an average RevPAR (revenue per available room) outperformance of over 5%. And the feedback we're getting from our guests and hotel owners tell us it's the right time to be doing this. The economic environment has changed since we started the programme, but this is a once in a lifetime opportunity to show people that the Holiday Inn they came to know and love over the last 50 years is still a hotel that's right for them today."

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 feature:

• Upgraded and decluttered lobby areas  

• A Holiday Inn scent and sound  

• New bedding  

• Upgraded showers and 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 programme to ensure guests receive the level of service they expect.  

26 million people a year visit Times Square and the 210-room Holiday Inn Express New York City Times Square is surrounded by New York City's biggest tourist attractions including Broadway, the Rockefeller Center and the Empire State Building. The hotel is located at 343 West 39th Street between 8th and 9th Avenues in Midtown Manhattan, with LaGuardia (LGA) and JFK International (JFK) both less than 30 minutes away.

CONSTRUCTION BEGINS ON THE BRANDO

Luxury Eco-Resort Slated to Open in 2011 on Marlon Brando’s Private Island, Tetiaroa

Located on the French Polynesian atoll of Tetiaroa and a product of the late Marlon Brando’s vision, construction on The Brando has officially begun with completion slated for late 2011. Construction of the luxury eco-resort has commenced with the official authorization from the Tahitian government after several years of studying the impact of construction on the environment. The Brando will feature: 47 deluxe bungalow villas (each with private plunge pools), a spa, fitness center, community pool, as well as various island activities including scuba diving and archaeological tours of royal Tahitian sites.

Construction of The Brando began with the building of a platform on the coral reef to provide logistical access to the island without causing environmental damage. Additionally, the old airstrip is being refurbished and extended to meet the government’s safety standards. 

The exclusive resort will be the only hotel on Tetiaroa, the former playground of Tahitian Kings in French Polynesia’s idyllic islands. Purchased by Brando in 1965, Tetiaroa is a 13-island chain circled by a coral reef offering a tranquil and pure paradise 35 miles from the island of Tahiti. The Brando is a product of Brando’s vision to create a project which will resonate with visitors and also foster opportunities for guests to get to know both the place and the people of French Polynesia. 

The project is being overseen by Tahiti Beachcomber SA, whose CEO, Richard Bailey, owner of several luxury resorts in French Polynesia, was a good friend of Brando’s and had been working with him for many years to fulfill their joint vision to develop an environmentally sustainable resort. Bailey has experience with other sustainable projects in French Polynesia as he owns four InterContinental resorts in the region, utilizing eco-friendly practices. 

Brando had many ideas for how to create an eco-friendly resort, and Bailey is working with the Brando estate to implement these visions. The hotel will operate with a “sea water air conditioning” system (SWAC), which draws on an inexhaustible supply of completely renewable clean energy and has zero impact on the environment. Bailey plans to use a deep-sea pipe to pump cold water from the depths of the ocean, which will then be used to chill the air in the hotel -- the same system he developed and is successfully in place at InterContinental Bora Bora Resort & Thalasso Spa. 

Bailey and his company, Tahiti Beachcomber SA, own the four InterContinental Resorts French Polynesia: InterContinental Bora Bora Resort and Thalasso Spa, InterContiental Tahiti Resort, InterContinental Bora Bora Le Moana Resort, and InterContinental Moorea Resort and Spa. Bailey is also co-founder of the non-profit foundation, Te Mana o Te Moana. Working closely with the Tahitian Ministry of Environment, the organization strives to protect marine life, educating the public on safe environmental activity, and continuously promotes eco-friendly practices throughout the InterContinental properties and local communities. 

Cunard Announces Historic 2011 World Voyages Aboard the New Queen Elizabeth and Flagship Queen Mary 2 – On Sale July 1

Queen Elizabeth Charts Course for Maiden World Voyage

Queen Mary 2 Sails East-West Route Around the World

Cunard Line is proud to announce the latest chapter in its storied history: the 2011 World Voyages. In January 2011, the youngest luxury fleet at sea will see two of its regal ocean liners embark on global odysseys that together will visit 57 ports of call across 34 countries including a maiden World Voyage for the new Queen Elizabeth, and Queen Mary 2 travelling the globe via the intriguing east-west route of passage.

Each itinerary will offer a unique adventure – featuring overnights in Sydney, Hong Kong and Dubai on Queen Elizabeth, and Cape Town, Sydney and Hong Kong on Queen Mary 2 - combined with the line’s hallmarks of gourmet fine dining, impeccable White Star Service™ and a wide variety of elegant stateroom accommodation including the renowned and award-winning Queens Grill and Princess Grill suites.

Queen Elizabeth Maiden World Voyage

For her maiden World Voyage, Queen Elizabeth will offer a complete circumnavigation of the globe from her home port of Southampton, crossing the Atlantic en route to New York. Especially compelling for US and Canadian guests is the option of embarking on their World Voyage experience from New York, Fort Lauderdale or – after the ship transits the Panama Canal - Los Angeles. 

From the west coast, Queen Elizabeth will continue her westward journey to the ever-popular city of Sydney (where she will stay overnight) via the South Pacific and New Zealand before heading to the exotic ports of Asia including Singapore, Bali, Vietnam and Thailand as well as another overnight stay in Hong Kong. Then the ship sails on to Malaysia and India before calling on Dubai (also an overnight stay), followed by a visit to Oman before transiting the Suez Canal and taking in some of the sites of Egypt, Greece, Italy and Portugal en-route back to Southampton. Here North American guests can rendezvous with the Queen Mary 2 and take in a legendary Transatlantic crossing to complete their 103-day circumnavigation of the globe. Full World Voyage fares start from $19,995 per person.

Segment voyages capture the essence of the World Voyage and aboard Queen Elizabeth range from 12 to 25-days, including New York to Los Angeles (16 days), Los Angeles to Sydney (23 days), Sydney to Singapore (25 days), Singapore to Dubai (12 days) and Dubai to Southampton (19 days). Guests can enjoy great value by combining two or more consecutive segments to create adventurous Liner Voyages. Segment fares start from $2,545 per person.

Queen Mary 2 World Voyage

Queen Mary 2 will begin her fourth World Voyage in New York and her second passage sailing on an east-west route around the globe. After a call in Fort Lauderdale, the ship will head to the Caribbean and South America, calling on Barbados, Brazil and Uruguay before arriving for an overnight stay in the magnificent city of Cape Town in South Africa, the ship’s second visit to this exceptionally beautiful metropolis. From there she will sail to the island of Mauritius in the Indian Ocean before an exploration of Australia that culminates with an overnight stay in Sydney. The ship continues on to New Zealand and Guam before sampling some highlights of China and Japan en-route to an overnight stay in Hong Kong, followed by visits to Vietnam, Singapore, Thailand and India en-route to Dubai. From here, Queen Mary 2 will call in Egypt before making a transit of the Suez Canal that will take her to European calls in Italy, Monaco, Spain and the United Kingdom, her last call before ending her 103-day odyssey in New York. Full World Voyage fares start from $19,995 per person.

Segment voyages aboard Queen Mary 2 range from 15 to 25-days and include New York to Cape Town (23 days), Cape Town to Sydney (17 days), Sydney to Hong Kong (25 days), Hong Kong to Dubai (15 days) and Dubai to New York (23 days). Consecutive segments can be combined to experience adventurous Liner Voyages. Segment fares start from $3,245 per person.

Cunard is also pleased to offer guests the chance to enjoy the World Voyage experience using a combination of Queen Elizabeth and Queen Mary 2. Embarking in New York, guests will be able to complete the first half of their World Voyage on Queen Elizabeth before transferring ships in Sydney and sailing back to New York on Queen Mary 2.

“Cunard’s World Voyages have been a highlight of our programmes since we introduced this travel adventure in 1922 and our two global journeys offer surprising value that is truly beyond expectation,” said Carol Marlow, president and managing director of Cunard Line. 

Cunard Royal Rendenzvous

Exactly three years to the day after Cunard welcomed its trio of Queens in New York, this rare event is poised to take place again on January 13, 2011 when Queen Mary 2, Queen Victoria and Queen Elizabeth call on New York for another spectacular Cunard Royal Rendezvous. Be among the few to experience this history-making day as you depart New York Harbour on one of the most famous ocean liners in the world.

Enhanced Benefits Programme

In addition to receiving a bonus 10% discount off Early Booking Fares (EBF), Full World Voyage and Liner Voyage guests will receive an onboard credit of up to $2,000 per stateroom when they book by February 28, 2010. In addition, Full World Voyage guests will receive complimentary Hotel and Dining Charges. New for 2011, guests in Inside and Outside category staterooms will receive an onboard credit of up to $1,000 per stateroom if they book by the same date. Cunard World Club members will receive an extra 5% savings off Bonus Early Booking Fares.

Additionally, all Full World Voyage Queens Grill and Princess Grill guests will be given a $400 shipboard credit per person to use towards shore excursions of their choice. All Liner Voyage Grill guests will be given a $200 shipboard credit to be applied the same. 

Further, an invitation will be extended to all Full World Voyage guests to join Carol Marlow ashore at one of the ports of call during their time onboard for the traditional World Voyage Dinner, an evening of world-class dining and entertainment.

Announcing the New LUXE City Guides Hotel & Villa Collection Online Booking Site

For six years, the LUXE City Guides' editorial team have scoured the 31 cities in the LUXE range for the few special properties that readers will love, and now you can browse and book them online at www.luxecityguides.com. Unlike other sites that list everything and the kitchen sink, the LUXE City Guides Hotel & Villa Collection is a highly opinionated, ultra-selective compilation of what LUXE is loving. Value, style and bang for buck.

Many booking sites are paid to list properties, but LUXE only features the hotels reviewed in the guides; no one ever pays to be listed. The LUXE City Guides Hotel & Villa Collection contains over 100 hotel reviews, spanning 31 cities, with more added every week. LUXE always travels to each destination, so you know it's an opinion you can trust and you can, quite literally, rest assured.

Rates are often less than you would get if you went direct to the hotel, and LUXE promises if you find a lower rate for the same room type under the same conditions within 24 hours of booking, LUXE will cancel your reservation at no cost. And that's all you pay. There's no additional booking or membership fee. With best online rates, exclusive offers and deals, and a free LUXE City Guide for every booking you make, LUXE means style for dollar.

So, what else do you get? LUXE Insider drops the skinny on what rooms to book and the fabs and drabs you can expect. Member reviews is where you can swap info and opinions. The gallery contains swarms of hi-res pics so you can really see where you'll be laying your head. The LUXE Special Collections help you choose your own adventure and include everything from Secluded Escapes, to Doggy Friendly hotels, to More Dash than Cash.

As if that weren't enough, the scorching new state-of-the-art LUXE City Guides online store comes with free monthly updates, destination reports, special offers and a grand slam of other cool stuff.

Crowne Plaza moves into Portugal - first Crowne Plaza will be in Vilamoura in the Algarve

The Crowne Plaza Vilamoura, set to open in January 2010, will be the first Crowne Plaza hotel in Portugal. The historic deal is the first franchise agreement between IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group) and the Grupo Marope, a Portuguese property and hotel owning company. The hotel will create more than 200 jobs when it opens.

The new hotel is right on the Vilamoura beach, near the world famous Vilamoura Casino, 300 metres from the Algarve's main marina, Marina Vilamoura, and 20 kilometres from Faro Airport. The hotel is within walking distance of five golf courses in Vilamoura, and only 20 minutes drive from other major courses in the Algarve.

Vilamoura is one of Europe's most popular destinations for tourists and golfers.

The Crowne Plaza Vilamoura will have 327 rooms and suites, and impressive conference facilities with 1,200 square metres of meeting room space. There is a 760 square metre meeting room divisible into three, a 275 square metre meeting room also divisible into three, an executive boardroom for 12 people and 22 guest rooms that have been designed for use as meeting rooms when needed. A beautiful garden with large palm trees makes the hotel ideal for hosting outdoor events.

Crowne Plaza Vilamoura will also have a variety of entertainment facilities and restaurants, including one al fresco restaurant open most of the year, a 1,000 square metre outdoor swimming pool and a driving range supervised by the hotel's golf pro.

The hotel was previously the Vilamoura Beach Hotel. The construction team stripped the building down to its original steel structure and floors and then rebuilt the hotel.

Hylko Versteeg, director of development for Spain and Portugal, IHG, said: "Since introducing Crowne Plaza to Europe more than 20 years ago it has become one of the world's fastest growing upscale hotel brands. Signing this deal with the Grupo Marope, which takes us into Portugal, is a milestone for us."

"Crowne Plaza is an internationally renowned hotel brand, popular with business travellers across the world. This unique opportunity to open the first Crowne Plaza hotel in Portugal is an exciting move for us. We are confident the hotel will draw more business and leisure travellers to Vilamoura and indeed the Algarve," explained Mario Vasco Pereira, Grupo Marope president.

Wyndham Hotel Brand Debuts in China With Xiamen Opening

Hotel Group, a member of the Wyndham Worldwide family of hospitality companies, has launched the Wyndham® Hotels and Resorts brand in China with the opening of the brand's first property here: a newly constructed, 588-room luxury hotel.

Wyndham Hotel Group is the world's largest U.S. based hotel company in China, currently franchising 175 hotels and five brands throughout the country. This also marks the first Wyndham-branded hotel managed by Wyndham Hotel Management, Inc. in the Asia Pacific region.

The 26-floor, five-star Wyndham Xiamen hotel, owned by Xiamen He Ping Li Hotel Ltd., features five food-and-beverage outlets, 37,000 square feet of meeting space, a 2,658-square-foot business center and diverse fitness facilities.

"We are honored to debut the Wyndham brand in China," said Jeff Wagoner, Wyndham Hotels and Resorts president. "This magnificent hotel represents one of the very best the Wyndham brand has to offer and demonstrates our commitment to developing similar luxurious hotels throughout Asia."

According to Wagoner, the introduction of the Wyndham Hotels and Resorts brand in China fulfills a strategic objective to develop the chain and Wyndham Hotel Management capabilities in Asia.

In a country that revels in architectural excellence, the Wyndham Xiamen does not disappoint, with a 66-foot-high waterfall; 23-foot-tall lobby chandelier glistening with 882 large crystal drops and 88 light bulbs; and the hotel's front face, which includes 460 energy-efficient lights that create a kaleidoscope of changing colors and designs at night. Completing the decor is a 23-foot-high statue at the hotel's entrance named the Goddess of Heping, representing an interpretation of the indigenous goddess of the sea, Mazu, considered to be a protector of East Asian fishermen and sailors.

Guest rooms include 161 suites, 216 non-smoking rooms and 130 serviced apartments, ranging in size from 500 to 1,065 square feet, all with views of the ocean or city skyline. The top five floors comprise the Wyndham Club, with 90 executive rooms, library, business services, meeting room and split-level lounge.

Each guest room features high-speed Internet service, stunning glass-design bathrooms with separate shower and bath, feather-down bedding, 32-inch, flat-screen LCD TVs, a safety deposit box with power to recharge laptops while stored and nightly turndown service, room cleaning and refreshed linens.

The centerpiece of the meeting facilities is a 13,558-square-foot, pillarless grand ballroom that can accommodate up to 1,000 guests. The hotel has 11 additional meeting rooms for small- to medium-sized groups. Services include state-of-the art meeting rooms, independent audio visual facilities, Internet access and translation equipment.

The business center offers four workstations with Internet access, facsimile machines, photocopiers and color laser printers. A concierge is available to arrange city tours, limousine service, same-day laundry and golf services at nearby courses.

Wyndham Xiamen's fitness center features an exercise room, indoor heated swimming pool and weight-lifting equipment. Personal instructors and trainers are available to all guests.

Five food-and-beverage outlets offer an array of international cuisine, including an all-day restaurant, Japanese restaurant, Chinese restaurant, lobby lounge and the Wyndham Club lounge, which serves breakfast and drinks with a sea view.

The hotel staff represents 20 of China's 34 provinces and speaks 19 Chinese dialects or languages and five international languages. Hotel General Manager Dominique Galperti, who has directed the hotel project, brings more than 25 years of hospitality experience in both Asia and Europe.

Located along the southeast coast of China, Xiamen is a key gateway city and a favored destination for foreign investment. The city has commercial links with Hong Kong, Macau and Taiwan. Xiamen's primary economic activities include fishing, shipbuilding, food processing, tanning, textiles, machine tools manufacturing, chemical industries, financial and telecommunication services.

Xiamen also is a tourist city widely known for its seaport and coastline. The city's tourist attractions include Gulangyu Island also known as Piano Island, Nanputuo Temple, stores featuring local products including tea leaves and sugar canes and water tours of the many small islands that are clustered along the coast near the city.

Wyndham Hotels and Resorts, LLC and its affiliates, members of the Wyndham Hotel Group family of lodging brands, offer upscale hotel and resort accommodations throughout the United States, Europe, Canada, Mexico, China and the Caribbean. All Wyndham hotels are either franchised or managed by us or managed through a joint venture partner. For additional information or to make a reservation, go to www.wyndham.com.

Wyndham Hotel Group, one of three principal components of Wyndham Worldwide Corporation (NYSE: WYN), encompasses approximately 7,000 hotels and 588,500 rooms in 66 countries under the hotel brands: Wyndham Hotels and Resorts®, Ramada®, Days Inn®, Super 8®, Wingate® by Wyndham, Baymont Inn & Suites®, Microtel Inn & Suites®, Hawthorn Suites®, Howard Johnson®, Travelodge® and Knights Inn®.

All hotels are independently owned and operated excluding certain Wyndham and international Ramada hotels which are managed by our affiliate or through a joint venture partner. Wyndham Hotel Group is based in Parsippany, N.J. Additional information is available at www.wyndhamworldwide.com.

Marriott Opens its 10th Hotel in Paris: The Courtyard by Marriott Paris - Saint Denis

The 150-room Courtyard by Marriott Paris - Saint Denis has opened in the dynamic Seine Saint Denis area above Saint Ouen, in close proximity to major businesses such as EDF, Siemens, Samsung, Generali, Bacardi France, Bosch, Caterpillar, Panasonic and Valeo, the Tour Pleyel and the Stade de France stadium.  The hotel is just six kilometers from central Paris, accessible by car or Metro on line 13 (Carrefour Pleyel station).  The Saint Denis hotel is Marriott’s third moderately priced Courtyard branded hotel in Paris.

“This hotel is designed for European business travelers who want all the conveniences of an upscale hotel but with a casual, open design where they can be totally at ease,” says Siegfried Poppe, general manager of the hotel. “It is in a great location to service business travelers to the area, as well as leisure guests attending events at the Stade de France.”

Guest rooms at the Courtyard by Marriott Paris -- Saint Denis are fully equipped with Marriott’s new, highly-acclaimed plush bedding and bath linens; two telephone lines; wireless Internet access; a well-lighted, over-sized work desk and ergonomic chair for comfort; an in-room safe and refrigerator; a coffee and tea maker and an iron and ironing board.  Opening rates for the month of June are €89, excluding city tax, on weekend nights and  €159 midweek.

For dining and entertainment, Oleo Pazzo, a casual Mediterranean bistro, is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, with outdoor patio seating and a lobby lounge and bar. Additional amenities include a business center/Internet corner in the lobby and wireless Internet throughout all public areas of the hotel.  A Grab & Go market provides snacks and sundries for those in a hurry.  And the fitness center offers travelers a way to maintain their wellness regime.

For small conferences and social events, the hotel has 125 square meters of meeting space which can be divided into three separate meeting rooms.

The Courtyard by Marriott brand is currently represented in France with properties in Neuilly and Colombes, a western suburb of Paris near La Defense. New Courtyard hotels in France are also planned for Marseille in 2010 and Arceuil in 2010.  Within Europe, 11 additional Courtyards are planned in Frankfurt South Oberforsthaus, Germany; Budapest, Hungary; Rome, Italy; Kristiansund, Norway; St. Petersburg, Russia; Basel, Switzerland; Stockholm-Kungsholmen, Sweden; Istanbul, Turkey; London Gatwick and Aberdeen in the United Kingdom;  and Belfast, Ireland.

Courtyard by Marriott is a moderately-priced lodging brand offering a refreshing environment that helps guests stay connected, productive and balanced.  Intuitive services and design accommodate guests’ needs for choice and control.  With more than 800 hotels in 28 countries, Courtyard is Marriott’s largest brand; 200 additional Courtyard by Marriott hotels will open around the world over the next three years.

Discover all l0 Courtyard, Renaissance and Marriott hotels in Paris, at marriott.com/paris.

MARRIOTT INTERNATIONAL, Inc. is a leading lodging company with more than 3,200 lodging properties in 66 countries and territories.  Marriott International operates and franchises hotels under the Marriott, JW Marriott, The Ritz-Carlton, Renaissance, Residence Inn, Courtyard, TownePlace Suites, Fairfield Inn, SpringHill Suites and Bulgari brand names; develops and operates vacation ownership resorts under the Marriott Vacation Club, The Ritz-Carlton Club and Grand Residences by Marriott brands; operates Marriott Executive Apartments; provides furnished corporate housing through its Marriott ExecuStay division; and operates conference centers.  The company is headquartered in Bethesda, Maryland, USA, and had approximately 146,000 employees at 2008 year-end.  It is recognized by BusinessWeek as one of the 100 best global brands, by FORTUNE® as one of the best companies to work for, and by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) as Partner of the Year since 2004.  In fiscal year 2008, Marriott International reported sales from continuing operations of nearly $13 billion.  For more information or reservations, please visit our web site at www.marriott.com. For an interactive online version of Marriott's 2008 Annual Report, which includes a short video message from Chairman and CEO J.W. Marriott, Jr., visit www.marriott.com/investor.

UPDATE: American Express Unveils Flagship Travel Service Office in Cambridge, Mass.

Recent images of the American Express flagship Service Office in Harvard Square / Cambridge, Mass.

IHG Announces Three New Properties in Africa

IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group) has opened two hotels in South Africa and will be opening its second Crowne Plaza hotel in Kenya this year.

The 318-room Crowne Plaza Johannesburg - The Rosebank marks the hotel brand's return to South Africa after a two-year hiatus. This new acquisition means the iconic The Rosebank Hotel is now operated under a franchise agreement with Hospitality Property Fund (HPF). 

Situated in the heart of Johannesburg's popular Rosebank business, leisure and residential district, the hotel undergone a 315 million Rand refurbishment.

In addition to its modern conference facilities, the property features a Seven Colors Spa and Technogym. Guests have two up-market restaurants to choose from - The Butchers Block and Fresh - as well as Johannesburg's trendiest new meeting place, The Circle Bar. The public areas have been stylishly decorated, using vibrant colors, textured fabrics and mood lighting.

Working in partnership with local developers ISO Leisure, the exclusive franchisee of the Holiday Inn Express brand in South Africa, the 304-room Holiday Inn Express Sunnypark also opened its doors last month.

The new hotel is part of the $1 billion global relaunch of the Holiday Inn brand family, announced in October 2007 to create a more contemporary brand image, increase quality and drive consistency across over 3,200 hotels around the world. 

Work commenced in March last year to convert Pretoria's iconic 20-story Sunnypark residential tower into the largest new Holiday Inn Express to date in South Africa. 

Located by Pretoria's Sunnypark Shopping Centre, the property is near to important business areas, including the Department of Trade and Industry's large-scale Trade Campus.

An iconic city landmark, architects have replaced the old building's steel-framed windows with modern new curtain-walling. The apartments were renovated and replaced with new hotel bedrooms with a focus on the elements that matter most to guests, including improved bedding to help guests get a great night's sleep.

The Great Room café-lounge area, bar and two meeting rooms are raised six stories above ground level, opening out onto a fully-landscaped roof-garden with water features and panoramic vistas over the Pretoria skyline. WiFi is available throughout the property

IHG is also set to open its second Crowne Plaza hotel in Kenya in autumn 2009. The 163-room and five-story Crowne Plaza Nairobi will have two bars, two restaurants, a banqueting hall, three meeting rooms, a health club, swimming pool, sauna with treatment area and a gym.

The 30-bedroom fifth floor will be a dedicated Crowne Club Floor with a lounge facility where guests can work or relax in comfort and privacy. Guests will also benefit from a 24-hour business service and wireless high speed internet access in the lobby.

John Bamsey, IHG's chief operating officer Middle East and Africa, said: "We will be developing our Africa portfolio with more than 30 properties over the next three to five years, and these will all be in prime locations and high growth cities. This will strengthen our position of becoming the leading operator on the continent and to contribute significantly to IHG's overall portfolio."

The basic tenet of IHG's expansion approach into Africa is to build long-standing relationships with strategic partners in strategic cities. In addition to Kenya, a number of IHG brands are also due to open in key destinations, including Angola, Nigeria, Tanzania, Senegal and South Africa. 

"IHG has been in Nairobi (Kenya) and Lusaka (Zambia) for almost 40 years, a testimony to our commitment to the African continent," added Bamsey. "Our presence and investment in Africa has been vital in driving the hospitality industry in the right direction. With our consistent growth, IHG will offer travelers to this region a range of high-quality accommodation options to ensure they enjoy a unique African experience."

Regarded as one of the fastest developing markets, Africa remains a popular destination for business and leisure international travelers. It offers value-for-money compared to other long-haul destinations from Europe or America making it an affordable alternative.

StudentUniverse Accommodations

StudentUniverse, the largest online travel agency for students in the world, announced today that they are adding a new service offering to their site. The StudentUniverse accommodation offering was previously powered by a third party provider. With the launch of StudentUniverse Hotels, the company will have its own accommodation offering. StudentUniverse Hotels offers properties all over the world; however as a student travel provider the company has kept a strong focus on offering budget hotels and hostels. Students can search for hotel and hostel deals at the StudentUniverse site.