Travel Zog

Full Body Scanners -- Second Annual Air Travel Survey Released by TripAdvisor

noreply@blogger.com (Amy Lynne) — Thu, 11 Mar 2010 01:20:00 +0000

TripAdvisor releases its Second Annual Air Travel Survey where they asked more than 3,200 U.S. respondents dozens of questions about their air travel preferences. The topics ranged from airline fees to in-flight WiFi.

Here is what topped the charts:
-- Limited legroom and the need for more roomier seats
-- Fees, please no more! 55% of travelers said that checked
baggage fees where the most annoying current airline fee.
31% stated that seat fees would be added in 2010 and
peak date surcharges for additional top travel dates.
-- 74% feel that passengers of size should be required to
purchase tickets for two seats on their flights.
-- 30% would like in-flight WiFi but 61% would not be willing
to pay for it. 27% would be willing to pay $5 or less.
-- What about inappropriate web content access? 45% said
they would do nothing if the person sitting next to them on
the flight were accessing inappropriate content.
-- To avoid extra charges with luggage, 58% always or often
carry on their bag.
-- What about the Full Body Scanners? 79% of
travelers said they are comfortable with U.S. airports
using full body scanners that can see through clothes.
-- Small Talk- 73% of travelers said a little small talk with
seatmates is fine, but that they prefer to keep to
themselves for most of the flight.

Who's Busy on Turkey Day?

noreply@blogger.com (Amy Lynne) — Tue, 17 Nov 2009 16:54:00 +0000

Orbitz Reveals the Busiest Airports for Thanksgiving

Reports are showing that despite the down economy travelers are still flying. Orbitz released the Insider Index of the busiest airports for Thanksgiving. They also released information on time-saving tips for those of us navigating our way through a bustling airport during the holiday season.

The Insider Index reviewed the top 50 U.S. airports based on flight bookings, identifying which will be the most and least busy the week of Thanksgiving.

Chicago O'Hare International takes the honor of the busiest airport this Thanksgiving. Rounding out the top three are Los Angeles and Denver international airports. New York-area airports occupy three of the 10 spots on the list, which makes the Big Apple a hot spot for Thanksgiving travelers.

1 Chicago, IL - Chicago O'Hare International

2 Los Angeles, CA - Los Angeles International

3 Denver, CO - Denver International

4 San Francisco, CA - San Francisco International

5 Atlanta, GA - Atlanta Hartsfield International

6 Boston, MA - Boston Logan International

7 New York, NY - New York LaGuardia

8 New York, NY - New York John F. Kennedy International

9 Newark, NJ - Newark Liberty International

10 Seattle, WA - Seattle Tacoma International

In reviewing what was the busiest airport during the Thanksgiving holiday, Orbitz also reveals the least busy airports. Orbitz reports that these airports may see a lift in traffic but overall will be easier for travelers to make their way through the airport.

1 San Jose, CA - San Jose International

2 Nashville, TN - Nashville International

3 Richmond, VA - Richmond International

4 Sacramento, CA - Sacramento International

5 Jacksonville, FL - Jacksonville International

6 West Palm Beach, FL - Palm Beach International

7 Hartford, CT - Bradley International

8 Orange County, CA - John Wayne International

9 Cincinnati, OH - Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International

10 Fort Myers, FL - Southwest Florida Regional

Orbitz Insider's Top Five Tips to Save You Time at the Airport this Holiday

Choose Alternate airports: If you haven't booked your Thanksgiving travel -- or if your're looking ahead to Christmas or New Year's -- consider using alternative smaller airports.

Flexibility is key: If your travel plans are flexible, investigate flying on days that Orbitz predicts will be less busy during the Thanksgiving period. The best bet would be to depart on Nov. 23, 2009 and return on Nov. 30, 2009

Online check-in is your friend: Where possible take advantage of online check-in and print boarding passes before arriving at the airport.

Know your flight status: Always check the status of your flight before leaving for the airport.

Security smarts: Keep anything you need to show airport security such as ID, boarding passes, liquids in a zip-top bag, or medication, in a separate compartment of your carry-on bag.

Travel Assistance offered to Delta Customers -- Because of Hurrican Ida

noreply@blogger.com (Amy Lynne) — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 15:29:00 +0000

Delta Offers Travel Assistance to Customers

Affected by Hurricane Ida

For those who are traveling Delta Airlines and their flight plans may have or will be affected by Hurricane Ida, may have a one-time change to their travel schedule without fee if tickets are changed by November 11, 2009. (See following areas of destination below)

-- Fort Walton Beach, Fla.

-- Gulfport-Biloxi, Miss.

-- Mobile, Ala.

-- Panama City, Fla.

-- Pensacola, Fla.

-- Tallahassee, Fla.

Delta will be thinning flight schedules to and from affected airports in hopes that delays are minimized during the storm. However, customers may wish to consider postponing to rerouting their trip without penalty to avoid possible inconvenience.

As stated above, travel for changed itineraries must begin by November 11th and changes to origin and destination may result in a fare increase. Customers whose flights are cancelled may request refunds. For complete details go to: www.delta.com and www.nwa.com

Bette Midler -- The Showgirl Must Go On Comes to an End

noreply@blogger.com (Amy Lynne) — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 17:55:00 +0000

Final Performance of The Showgirl Must Go On

Scheduled for January 31, 2010

If you have not had a chance to see Bette Midler Live in Las Vegas at The Colosseum at Ceasars, you better hurry, as this showgirl will do her last performance, January 31, 2010.

"What a fabulous two years this has been, and I thank AEG and Ceasars Palace for the best partnership a showgirl could imagine. Who knows? These legs have had such a great run in the desert --- it may be time to haul them to places with more humidity and fewer slot machines. But first I need to finish recording my album of the sexiest new love songs that only a showgirl could sing," stated Midler.

The showgirl Must Go On will perform November 7-15 and December 30 - January 31, 2010. The show is dark Monday, Thursday and occasional Fridays. Tickets for these final performances are on-sale now at Ticketmaster.com, keyword "Bette Midler", by calling 1-877-7BETTEM (723-8836), or in person at The Colosseum at Ceasars Palace Box Office, which is open daily from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Dashing through the Snow -- On a Jet Airplane

noreply@blogger.com (Amy Lynne) — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 17:36:00 +0000

TripAdvisor Travelers Dashing to the Airports for

Holiday Flights in 2009

TripAdvisor has announced the results of its holiday air travel survey of more than 1,300 U.S. respondents. They found that of the 35 percent that are planning to travel for Thanksgiving this year, 37 percent are planning to fly to their destinations. This is nearly equal to the 38 percent one year ago. For the month of December, 40 percent of respondents are planning to travel with 57 percent planning to fly. That is up compared to the 52 percent last year.

It appears that those who booked early were able to take advantage of some great deals this year. Eighty-one percent of those traveling for Turkey Day have already booked their flights, with 55 percent saying that they were able to get a good price by booking early. It appears that most who are willing to fly are flying only if they found a great deal.

For the Christmas Holidays, 57 percent of travelers surveyed are planning to fly and 47 percent of them said they have yet to book their flights. For travelers not currently planning to fly, 39 percent said they would consider flying if they found a great price.

Due to the changes with baggage fees, 33 percent of travelers planning to fly during the holidays this year are planning to take only carry-on bags, 55 percent are planning to check one bag and only 12 percent plan to check two bags. This is quite different as in the past, 12 percent said they just took carry-ons, 61 percent checked one bag, and 26 percent checked two bags.

When surveyors were asked if the economy was affecting their holiday flight plans, 67 percent said not at all, 33 percent said they are factoring it in, 19 percent are planning to drive, and 14 percent are flying on off-peak days. Eleven percent of travelers also said they're planning to fly on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day or New Year's Day to get a cheaper flight.

"Over the past few weeks we've had millions of travelers shopping for their holiday flights on TripAdvisor," said Bryan Saltzburg, general manager of new initiatives at TripAdvisor. "This survey shows that travelers are still flying for the holidays despite the shaky economy and that many are finding great deals. We also found that travelers are adjusting their behavior as airlines implement new fees, including those for checking first and second bags."

Top 10 Destinations Shopped on TripAdvisor Flights in October for November and December Travel Dates

1. Las Vegas, Nevada
2. Los Angeles, California
3. Orlando, Florida
4. Fort Lauderdale, Florida
5. Atlanta, Georgia
6. New York, New York
7. Miami, Florida
8. San Francisco, California
9. Phoenix, Arizonia

10.Honolulu, Hawaii

JetBlue Airways and DJ Mark -- Silent Disco at John F. Kennedy International Airport

noreply@blogger.com (Amy Lynne) — Thu, 29 Oct 2009 13:41:00 +0000

DJ Mark of Vhs or Beta Spin with JetBlue gives Silent Disco at T5 on the Eve of Halloween

If you are a customer of JetBlue Airways and are passing through Terminal 5 at New York's John F. Kennedy International Airport on October 30th, then you will have a chance to show your moves at the first-ever Silent Disco. Customers will have the chance to wear wireless headsets to listen to the DJ's music.

The event will be held from 5p.m. to 6:30p.m., Friday, October 30th. Those who participate will wear high-end wireless headphones while everyone else in the terminal will see a dance party but won't hear the music. Of course, Halloween costumes are welcome and encouraged!

"Our Silent Disco is about giving customers and crewmembers the chance to tune in to some great music, to burn some energy before getting on a flight or to shake out the stress of the week," said Kim Ruvolo, brand manager for JetBlue Airways. "That's been the goal of our Live from T5 series: to give everyone at the terminal unique and entertaining experiences."

Live from T5 is a six-month, 12-date live music concert series featuring performances by hand-selected emerging artists from around the U.S. on select Fridays throughout the year. Performances have included Dan Dyer, Nicole Atkins, American Princes, Alberta Cross, Justin Townes Earle and Madi Diaz. More information can be found at www.jetblue.com/t5

Southwest's 72-Hour Sale! - Getaway for as Low as $25 to Select Destinations

noreply@blogger.com (Amy Lynne) — Tue, 27 Oct 2009 15:02:00 +0000

Don't Procrastinate - Check out Southwest's 72-Hour Sale!

Southwest Airlines just announced its latest fare sale as customers can purchase one-way travel for $25, $50, $75 or $100 based on length of trip. The fares are broken down by miles. For travel up to 375 miles, fares are $25 one-way. Fore travel between 375 and 549 miles, fares are $50 one-way. For travel between 550 and 999 miles, fares are $75 one-way. For travel more than 1,000 miles, fares are just $100 one-way.

These fares are available through 11:59 pm PST October 29, 2009, for travel between December 2, 2009, and December 16, 2009, or travel between January 5, 2010, and February 10, 2010. For a list of prices and markets go to: www.southwest.com

One cool thing about Southwest Airlines is that your bags always fly free and they never charge for a pillow or blanket. It is actually a no nonsense kind of flight. I travel a lot for business and Southwest seems to fit my pocket book and schedule, so I love it when they have great deals like the one above.

Be sure to review the fare rules prior to purchase.

The Venetian and The Palazzo Las Vegas Onboard -- Added to Southwest Airlines Rapid Rewards

noreply@blogger.com (Amy Lynne) — Tue, 13 Oct 2009 15:04:00 +0000

Southwest Airlines Rapid Rewards Welcomes

The Venetian and The Palazzo

Las Vegas Onboard

The Venetian and The Palazzo Resort-Hotel-Casino properties are new preferred partners of Southwest Airlines frequent flyer program, Rapid Rewards. Rapid Rewards Members now have the option to earn Rapid Rewards credit for each qualifying stay at both hotel properties. As a bonus, Members who book their hotel stays on southwest.com by Nov. 5, 2009, can earn double credit for stays through Dec. 31, 2009.

"Southwest is the largest airline serving Las Vegas, and this new partnership with The Venetian and The Palazzo brings added value to the millions of Customers we transport to Las Vegas each year," said Ryan Green, Southwest's director of customer loyalty.

"We are pleased to be the first and only Las Vegas Resort-Hotel-Casino property to partner with Southwest Airlines on their renowned Rapid Rewards Program," stated Manny Olaiz, senior vice president of leisure sales for The Venetian and The Palazzo. "Consumers who participate in this program and stay at one of our Las Vegas properties will enjoy luxurious amenities and excellent service while earning Rapid Reward credits towards their next flight on Southwest Airlines. This is a great benefit and added value for our guests."

Need a Deal for the Holidays -- Try New York City as "New York Times" Reports

noreply@blogger.com (Amy Lynne) — Mon, 12 Oct 2009 15:43:00 +0000

New York City -- An Enchanting place to spend the Holidays!

Ever since I watched the movie "Home Alone" I have always wanted to spend Christmas in New York City with my family. It just seems like the perfect place to take in Holiday Spirit and Cheer even if it is only a once in a lifetime trip (that is getting the entire family together would be really a once in a lifetime occasion). I know, many of you are wondering why New York? Yes, it is considered a busy city with its problems that most large cities have; however, I have been told that it is a wonderful place during the Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays.

Allison Busacca of the New York Times, reports, some travel deals for New York city during the holidays. Please see the information below:

GEM HOTELS: A collection of moderately-priced hotels in SOHO, Chelsea, and Midtown West, these hotels are normally priced at $219.00 a night; however, from November 20 to 29 and December 13 to 29, they are offering $139.00. This hot deal is being called the Cool Yule deal. For more information and to book a room go to: www.thegemhotel.com/coolyule

A True New York Holiday: Lots of People, Traffic and Christmas Spirit

by parrot201

Want a Little Fall Foliage?- National Park Foundation offers Top Ten Parks for Fall Foliage 09

noreply@blogger.com (Amy Lynne) — Thu, 08 Oct 2009 16:31:00 +0000

National Park Foundation Releases Top Ten Parks for Fall Foliage 09'

The list is sponsored by Olympus giving photographers a chance to enter a photo contest, Share the Experience, for best photo of the 391 national parks.

The 2009 list of the most photogenic parks for fall foliage:

-- Acadia National Park, ME - Peak colors are expected now through October 15th.

-- Cyahoga Valley National Park, OH - Peak colors expected the third and fourth weeks of October.

-- Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, PA - Peak colors are expected the weekend of October 17th

-- Great Smoky Mountains National Park, NC/TN - Peak colors are expected during the last two weeks of October.

-- Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore, IN - Peak colors are expected this weekend and for the next ten days.

-- Mississippi National River and Recreation Area, MN - Leaves are already turning; the peak is expected in the next ten days.

-- Mount Rainier National Park, WA - Peak colors are expected this weekend and for the next ten days.

-- New River Gorge National River, WV - Peak colors are expected during the third week of October, starting around the weekend of the 17th.

-- Saratogoa National Historic Park, NY - Peak colors are expected this weekend and for the next ten days.

-- Valley Forge National Historical Park, PA - Peak colors are expected during the last two weeks of October.

To enter the photo contest go to: Share the Experience

Travel-Ticker.com -- Five Ways to Make Family Travel More Affordable this Fall

noreply@blogger.com (Amy Lynne) — Wed, 07 Oct 2009 14:01:00 +0000

Barbara Messing of Travel-Ticker.com

Gives Advice on Travelling with the Family

An Avid traveler with stamps from over 50 countries on her passport, Barbara Messing applies her passion for travel to her role as vice president of Travel Ticker. She is a mom who works in the travel industry and is always getting questions from parents about how they can plan a getaway with the kids that won't break the bank. Barbara has found that the travel deals out there are better than she has seen in years, which makes this fall a great time to take a family vacation.

Barabara gives ideas to make family travel affordable this fall:

- Picking the right destination: Deals are abundant, but especially at family destinations this year, so now you just need to decide where to go. Occupancy levels at popular family resorts were already low, and with families back to school the hotels have even more empty rooms. If you can steal a break with the kids this Fall, San Diego, Orlando, Hawaii and Los Angeles all offer amazing value this season and plenty of entertainment for your family.

- Finding flights: Prices are great right now as airlines are trying to fill seats with earlier and more aggressive fares than normal fall sales. Airline prices change constantly, so look for these low fares now and when you see a great fare, book it immediately. A handful of airlines still offer child discounts, but as a general rule, you will find a better deal if you look out for the lowest fares you can find online and special sales. These are inevitably lower than the full-priced child fares. You can sign up for sale and fare alerts with your favorite airlines and travel sites.

- Consider All-inclusive resorts: All-inclusive resort vacations are a family's best friend and are offering some of the best discounts I've seen in years. Perfect for a cross-generational family beach vacation-everyone can eat, stay and play at an all-inclusive with one set price. Plus, most resorts offer a "kids camp" so that the parents can enjoy some downtime with a fruity drink and a book by the pool--a rarity on most vacations.

- Timing is everything: If you want to save even more money and score some incredible deals on flights or beach vacations, try between now and December 19th, when the demand and prices are low. The next few months before the holidays are a great time to visit Florida, Mexico and the Caribbean for some of the lowest rates of the year. Vacation packages will often offer rates at 4-star All-inclusive resorts that include airfare for around $100 per day during these low-season times. Often children under 12 are able to stay and eat for free at these resorts, so check around the best pricing.

- Booking holiday travel: If you haven't booked your holiday travel yet, I would suggest doing that now. October is a very good time to book travel because you will still see some good options on pricing and routes. I have a couple of recommendations to keep both your costs and stress in check. If possible, try to fly nonstop out of a popular airline hub. You will find more competition among airlines and thus better pricing. More importantly, by flying nonstop you will not get stuck at one of your connections with your tired and crankly family, nor will your luggage with all of the Christmas presents end up at the wrong airport. If you do have to make a connection, try flying on the off-peak days of the holiday and when picking your routing, avoid hubs that get frequent weather delays. Finally, treat yourself well. If you don't want to sleep on grandma's air mattress, check out the amazing hotel rates during holiday weekends. Business travelers who head home for the holidays leave empty hotels, which translates to great discounts to gain your business. Or even better, leave the kids on the air mattress and enjoy a hotel getaway for yourselves.

Get a Free Night at SpringHill Suites by Marriott Hotels

noreply@blogger.com (Amy Lynne) — Tue, 06 Oct 2009 18:11:00 +0000

Stay Two Nights Get your Third Night Free

Weekend Getaway Promotion

More than 200 SpringHill Suites by Marriott are helping travelers stretch their dollars and enjoy a more relaxing, fun-filled weekend getaway. The Stay Two Nights Get Your Third Night Free weekend getaway promotion requires that reservations must be made before November 22, 2009 for hotel stays occurring now through December 13, 2009. Go to www.marriott.com/marriott.mi?page=Springhill-Suites-free-hotel-night and insert promotional code BGS or you can call 1-877-MARRIOTT.

To enjoy during your stay, guest will receive "Thymes Bath Gift Set" when they check-in (while supplies last). It comes complete with travel-size body wash, body lotion and bath salts to take home or enjoy during your stay.

SpringHill Suites by Marriott provides a large studio including separate areas for sleeping, relaxing and working. Guests can take advantage of free High-speed Internet Access in their suites and WiFi in the lobby. Also provided is a complimentary hot buffet breakfast, fitness facility and swimming pool. Guest suites also include iPod docking stations, beds with crisp linens, thicker mattresses and piles of pillows.

To learn more about SpringHill Suites by Marriott, please visit www.spacetoinspire.com

New Travel Deals Auctioning Website Launches -- Deals-Travel.com

noreply@blogger.com (Amy Lynne) — Mon, 05 Oct 2009 15:28:00 +0000

Travel Deals the eBay Way

Deals-Travel.com, Inc., a rapidly growing online travel auctions website and an alternative to eBay in this market space, has announced the official launch.

If you are someone who enjoys eBay, then you might love Deals-Travel.com, which auctions off travel deals from around the world inventory for all kinds of travel, vacation packages, hotels, tickets and more. This site is unlike the CheapTickets, Hotwire or Priceline, as you know which travel package you are bidding on before you start the process of buying. This gives you a chance to research and to see what you are in for prior to bidding.

Most of their sales are an auction format but they also offer the "buy it now" listings to give the buyer a choice. To use Deals-Travel.com you must become a registered user by completing an easy form, and it's free! After you submit your form you will be emailed a confirmation code that you will use to activate your account. When you find an item you like in the category listings you will use your customer ID and password to place a bid. If you have chosen to be notified when outbid, you will be sent an email message as soon as someone overbids you.

For more information go to: Deals-Travel.com

Orbitz.com -- No Cancellation Fees on Hotels with Hotel Price Assurance

noreply@blogger.com (Amy Lynne) — Thu, 01 Oct 2009 14:52:00 +0000

Orbitz- No Cancellation fees on Hotel Bookings

Orbitz announced that it will no longer charge change and cancellation fees on hotel bookings made anywhere in the world as they are making it easier for customers to adjust their schedules accordingly.

"We are totally obsessed with ensuring Orbitz.com is the best place to book a hotel on the Web," said Barney Hartford, President and CEO, Orbitz Worldwide. "Earlier this year we led the industry with the launch of Total Price hotel search results and Hotel Price Assurance delivering meaningful value an transparency. Now by eliminating change and cancellation fees on all hotel bookings we're giving customers yet another reason to book their hotel with Orbitz.com."

Orbitz has made it's mark in the online travel industry by providing the Total Price hotel search making it radically easier and more transparent for consumers to search for hotels and know the total cost of lodging up front. They are the only major online travel company to show Total Price per night, including taxes and fees, upfront on the initial search results page. They also offer Hotel Price Assurance which promises customers the best Orbitz rate for their hotel. Here's how it works: you book any pre-paid hotel on Orbitz, another Orbitz customer subsequently books the same hotel stay at a lower rate, and Orbitz automatically sends you a check for the difference.

For more details, visit www.orbitz.com/hotelvalue.

Southwest Airlines -- Fares are Falling!

noreply@blogger.com (Amy Lynne) — Tue, 29 Sep 2009 17:27:00 +0000

Reduced Fares for Fall and Winter Travel

with Southwest Airlines

Southwest Airlines is offering Customers fares starting as low as $59 one-way to select destinations. Wow, fares are falling!

If you are planning to travel from October 13th through February 11th 2010 (excluding Fridays and Sundays) then check out the deals with Southwest. Fares must be purchased by October 15, 2009. Please see example fares below:

-- $59 one-way between Phoenix and San Diego

-- $69 one-way between Chicago Midway and Columbus

-- $89 one-way between Boston Area and Chicago Midway

--$109 one-way between St. Louis and Tampa Bay

"If you don't find the fare you're looking for right away, try using our Low Fare Calendar tool, Southwest Shortcut, to quickly find the lowest fare," said Michael Van Houweling, Southwest's Director of Online Marketing. "For travelers with flexible schedules, our Low Fare Calendar tool will show the lowest price available for each day using a monthly calendar view."

To read more about the falling fares or the Low Fare Calendar tool go to: Southwest Airlines

Hotels.com Reports 30% Drop on New York City Hotel Rates

noreply@blogger.com (Amy Lynne) — Tue, 29 Sep 2009 17:14:00 +0000

According to hotels.com Hotel Price Index --

New York City Hotel Rates

Drop 30 Percent in the First Half of 2009

Compared to the same period in 2008 New York City hotel rates dropped 30 percent tying them with Las Vegas as the greatest price fall among major U.S. cities. However, despite the drop in rates, New York still had the most expensive hotel prices in the U.S. and seventh most expensive globally.

"Hotel rates are at a historic low right now and it's the perfect time to take advantage of the great deals in New York City and around the northeast." said Steve Dumaine, senior director of merchandising for hotels.com.

Not only did New York hotels drop in price but it appears that the city is one of the most favored destination for U.S. and international travelers across the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic states. New York was second amongst American travelers and first among foreign travelers.

New York City held its spot as the most expensive domestic city for U.S. travelers, ranking seventh globally.

For more information go to www.hotels.com

Americas Best Value Inn turns 10! Enter a Drawing for a Chance to Win Great Prizes!!!

noreply@blogger.com (Amy Lynne) — Fri, 25 Sep 2009 18:53:00 +0000

Celebrate with Americas Best Value Inn

by entering aDrawing for a chance to

Win Great Prizes!

Everyone is invited to an online birthday party with Americas Best Value Inn. Those who visit www.AmericasBestValueInn.com can test their birthday knowledge by answering fun and quirky trivia questions, post their most memorable birthday experiences, and enter for a chance to win a Birthday-Party-In-A-Box. The party comes complete with a digital camera to record your own birthday memories and gift certificates for Domino's Pizza, soft drinks, and ice cream! Every 10 days, new trivia questions will be posted and new random drawing prize winners will be chosen.

"Birthday parties are a time of celebrationa nd we want to share our 10th birthday with the millions of people who have made us the fastest-growing hotel chain in the country," said marketing director Peter Frantz.

Guests have a chance to enter to win other prizes including $75 gift certificates, redeemable toward a stay at any Americas Best Value Inn, and a $25 ice cream gift card. The promotion runs until January 30, 2010 and complete contest rules are available at www.AmericasBestValueInn.com.

Orbitz Announces Fall Sale -- Autumn's Popular Destinations

noreply@blogger.com (Amy Lynne) — Thu, 24 Sep 2009 18:06:00 +0000

Sale Launches with Hotels from $35 per Night in

Autumn's Popular Destinations

Orbitz.com released the latest edition of the Orbitz Insider Index, revealing the top shoulder season destinations offering big fun and even bigger savings this fall. Along with the insider index, the company also announced its Fall Sale.

"Fall's shoulder season, the period between summer and holiday travel, is the perfect time to enjoy great weather with the perks of lower costs and less crowded beaches and attractions in many popular tourist destinations," said Sam Fulton, Group Vice President for Orbitz.com's Retail Group. "This is the time of year where you will find some of the best deals and get the most value out of your vacation."

The Orbitz Insider Index reviewed average hotel costs in 10 popular shoulder season destinations, identifying which give travelers the most value this fall. Offering consumers the highest year-over-year percentage savings, Dublin and Bermuda top the list, with 44% and 38% respectively. Those savvy spenders should set their sights on a fall excursion to Las Vegas, San Juan, and once again, Dublin, all of which offer average hotel rates under $100 per night.

Nearly all of the Orbitz Insider shoulder season destinations are included in the Orbitz Fall Sale. Sample rates include:

-- Las Vegas: 4-star Luxor Hotel, rates starting at $50/night, check in date Oct. 15, 2009. Orbitz Special Offer: 3rd night free, $25 beverage credit.

-- San Juan: 3-star Doubletree by Hilton San Juan, rates starting at $99/night, check-in date Oct. 11. Orbitz Special Offer: Stay 4 nights and get the 3rd and 4th nights free, $50 food and beverage credit

-- Vancouver, Canada: 4-star Century Plaza Hotel, rates starting at $87 per night, check-in date Oct. 17. Orbitz Special Offer: 25% off 4 nights or more. 20% off 3 nights

For more information about the above information including the Insider Index go to: http://www.orbitz.com/

Gone to the Dogs -- Pooch Hotel in Sunnyvale, CA

noreply@blogger.com (Amy Lynne) — Thu, 24 Sep 2009 14:40:00 +0000

Pooch Hotel Rolls out the Red Carpet for DOGS!

In Sunnyvale, California, Pooch Hotel, a 5-star hotel and daycare exclusively for dogs, will open its doors with a Grand Opening to be held Saturday, September 26th and Sunday, September 27th.

From 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., guest will be given free tours of the 30,000-square-foot facility. A 10% discount will be given on all daycare package purchases and reservations, along with great prizes. Visitors are encouraged to bring their four-legged friends.

"There is nothing more important than knowing your pet is safe while you're away," said founder and CEO Robin Tomb. "We love your pets like they were our own. Pooch Hotel has gone to great lengths to deliver a higher level of quality services and features in a safe, eco-friendly environment. It is the perfect home away from home."

Amenities:

-- an environmentally friendly mindset

-- Certified PCSA (Pet Care Service Association) professionals

-- On-call veterinary care

-- Open seven days a week

-- Custom-made hotel suites

-- Customized exercise pool

-- Underwater and land treadmills

-- Dietary programs

-- Aromatherapy bathing and massage

-- Paw-dicures

-- Poochberry facials and tooth brushing

Located at 180 North Wolfe Road @ Central Expressway in Sunnyvale (only five minutes from the San Jose Airport).

Pooch Hotel

TripAdvisor -- North America's Top 10 Wine Destinations

noreply@blogger.com (Amy Lynne) — Tue, 22 Sep 2009 15:39:00 +0000

TripAdvisor Toasts North America's

Top 10 Wine Destinations

According to TripAdvisor editors travelers are particularly interested in wineries this fall. They have noticed the search term "vineyards" up 10 percent over the past six weeks, compared to the same period last year.

In a survey of more than 1,000 U.S. respondents, 48 percent plan to visit a U.S. vineyard this year, with 40 percent planning to do this fall. Travelers are most interested in visiting California favorites Napa Valley (29 percent) and Sonoma (18 percent), with the Finger Lakes, New York and Willamette Valley, Oregon tied for third place with eight percent. When it comes to good taste, 59 percent prefer red wine, 43 percent want white and 12 percent request rose.

Napa Valley, California

Wonderful scenery and large-scale wineries.

Top Value hotel in Napa, California: Chablis Inn -- Average nightly rate: $114

Sonoma, California

Napa's neighbor makes Sonoma an enchanting wine destination.

Willamette Valley, Oregon

Good for pinot noirs, Willamette Valley, one of Oregon's majority wine-growing regions.

Top Value hotel in Eugene, Oregon: Broadway Inn -- Average nightly rate: $82

Yakima Valley, Washington

Oldest wine region in Washington

Roseburg, Oregon

South of Willamett Valley, Roseburg has slightly warmer climate and is situated in the Umpqua Valley.

Top Value hotel in Roseburg, Oregon: Quality Inn Central -- Average nightly rate: $80

Okanagan Valley, British Columbia

Sweet dessert ice wines are what you will find in this wine region. Featuring more than 100 different wineries.

Finger Lakes, New York

New York's largest wine-producing region with its ideal conditions for growing a range of varietals.

Top Value hotel in Auburn, New York: Inn at the Finger Lakes -- Average nightly rate $94

Traverse City, Michigan

An important wine-growing region in the Midwest as a majority of the grapes are grown near the shores of Lake Michigan. Baco noir, cabernet franc, and others.

North Fork, Long Island, N.Y.

4,000 acres of vineyards and excellent fresh seafood and produce

Top Value hotel in Riverhead, New York: Holiday Inn Express East End -- Average nightly rate: $188

Oak Grove, Virginia

Virginia has a rich wine history dating back to Jefferson's Monticello wines in the 1770s.

TripAdvisor.com

Virgin America Top Honors "Best Business/First Class with Conde Nast Traveler's 2009 Travel Poll -- New Business-Friendly Flexible Fares

noreply@blogger.com (Amy Lynne) — Mon, 21 Sep 2009 15:36:00 +0000

Virgin America Wins Conde Nast Traveler's Business Travler Poll and Launches 24-Hour Fare Sale, "Let's Get Down to Business"

To thank its loyal guests, the airline today unveils more business-friendly flexible options on its web site and the "Lets Get Down to Business" 24-hour fare sale.

"We're honored to receive top reviews from the selective business travelers who fly the most and expect the best in service, comfort and designs," said Virgin America President and CEO David Cush. "Now more than ever, business travelers are looking for more for their money. With innovative amenities to keep them connected, beautifully designed new planes and low fares, we think we're offering the best value in the domestic skies."

More than 25,000 business travelers from the Conde Nast Traveler's Business Travel Poll are asked to rate hotels, airports and airlines. Over 1700 surveys were completed and final scores (out of 100) represent the percentage of readers who rated an airline "excellent" or "very good". Virgin America had an overall score of 68.6. The carrier's nearest competitor (No. 2 in the rankings) had an overall score of 38.8.

As of today, to thank its business guests, Virgin America's web site now features new business-friendly flexible fare options, including Fully Refundable Main Cabin and Fully Refundable Main Cabin Select fares, as well as a new "Instant Upgrade to Main Cabin Select" fare class.

The 24-hour "Lets Get Down to Business" fare sale starts today. Tickets must be purchased by 7:00 a.m. PT on September 22, 2009. Main Cabin fares start as low as $29 from SFO to LAX and SFO to SEA. Long-haul Main Cabin fares start as low as $89 from BOS to LAX, BOS to SFO, JFK to LAS and IAD to LAX.

For additional information along with terms and conditions go to: VirginAmerica

Holiday With Your Pet UK Style -- WeAcceptPets.co.uk

noreply@blogger.com (Amy Lynne) — Fri, 18 Sep 2009 17:10:00 +0000

Pet Lovers take Notice -- WeAcceptPets.co.uk

offers Website Directory to

Holiday with Your Pet

WeAcceptPets offers a website to help those who want to travel with their pets. The site list accommodations that are pet-friendly all over the United Kingdom. The accommodations are broken down into sections giving the user a chance to choose from different types of pets including dogs, horses and other small pets. They can also search by accommodations and location.

It appears this seems to be a current trend to travel with your pet as travelers are not wanting to leave their pet at home or are just wanting to avoid paying the expense of a pet sitter. Hotels and resorts are realizing that travelers are taking vacations with their pets and are welcoming them in numbers. Check out the Top 10 Dog Friendly Resorts and Pet Friendly Cities in previous post.

WeAcceptPets uses the most technologically advanced software giving it the previously mentioned search capabilities and also gives property owners a chance to list specials offers or update their information at anytime. You can view the site at: www.weacceptpets.co.uk

photos provided by www.freedigitialphotos.net

SmarterTravel.com -- Gives you Smarter Deals

noreply@blogger.com (Amy Lynne) — Thu, 17 Sep 2009 15:13:00 +0000

Online Travel Site -- SmarterTravel.com

Gives you Smarter Deals

SmarterTravel.com offers many opportunities to experience a wide choice of travel deals, guides, advice, and a plethora of news regarding the travel industry. Not only will you receive a great deal but you will also receive wonderful advice and news alerts.

The site offers Editors Picks and Sponsored Deals giving the reader an easy way to locate these top deals. Below is just a sample of what I found on this site:

Sin City Brewing Co. -- Now Open at The Venetian

noreply@blogger.com (Amy Lynne) — Wed, 16 Sep 2009 14:41:00 +0000

Sin City Brewing Co. Now Open Inside the

Grand Canal Shoppes at The Venetian

Sin City Brewing Co., Las Vegas's signature microbrewery, has opened its third location in Vegas at The Grand Canal Shoppes at The Venetian.

Sin City Brewing Co. at The Venetian features five original, ice-cold beers on tap: Sin City Amber, Sin City Light, Sin City Weisse, Sin City Stout and the newest, Sin City Pilsner.

Beer is not the only goods available as you can also purchase their logo apparel as well.

"With our original recipes and hands-on brewing process, we've created a line of beer that fully lives up to the reputation of Las Vegas," said Rich Johnson, the company's president and an award-winning craft brewer. "No visit here is complete without having a beer at Sin City Brewing Co."

Sin City Brewing Co. at The Grand Canal Shoppes at The Venetian is open from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 10 a.m. to midnight, Friday and Saturday.

For more information visit: Sin City Brewing Company

Hotels.com -- U.S. Hotel Prices Drop 17%

noreply@blogger.com (Amy Lynne) — Tue, 15 Sep 2009 15:32:00 +0000

According to hotels.com

U.S. Hotel Prices Drop 17%

The latest hotels.com Hotel Price Index(TM), the average price of a hotel room in the U.S. fell 17 percent in the first six months of 2009 compared to the same period in 2008. During Q1 and Q2 of 2009, the average cost of a nightly hotel room was $115, down from $139 the year before.

"This is by far the most significant change in prices we've seen since we created the Hotel Price Index. Americans' travel dollars have never gone farther than in 2009," said David Roche, President of hotels.com.

U.S. is not alone in regards to the fall in room rates as hotel rooms in Europe were down 16 percent, rates in North America and Asia both declining 17 percent, and hotel prices in Latin America fell 18 percent for the first half of the year.

Other notable findings in regards to U.S. destinations include:

Las Vegas overtook New York City as the favorite domestic destination for U.S. travelers in the first half of 2009, with room rates in the city just $82 a night on average. Destinations rounding out the top five U.S. favorites included New York City, Orlando, Chicago and San Francisco.

Las Vegas and New York City both experienced the nation's greatest drop in room rates with each destination down 30 percent compared to the same period the previous year.

Among the states, New York was the most expensive destination, followed by Hawaii, Massachusetts and Wyoming, whose ski tourism helped boost hotel prices in the state. The nation's least expensive states in the first half of 2009 included Nevada, with room rates just $77 on average, Idaho and Kansas.

For international travelers visiting the United States, New York, Las Vegas and San Francisco were the top destinations in Q1 and Q2 2009.