uktour

Frankfurt - City of Contrasts

2012-01-18T07:30:00.001-08:00

My wife Suzanne and I, were planning a trip to Frankfurt for a long time but somehow our professional commitments got in the way and we could not make a trip on previous occasions. But this Christmas, we decided not to procrastinate any further and asked our travel agent to book our cheap flights to Frankfurt.

We were explained in advance by our travel agent that the total cost of the trip would depend to a lot of extent on the type of airline chosen and the class of travel selected. He further explained to us that the cost of the trip would also depend on how early you book your flight tickets to Frankfurt. In our case, it would be high as we had booked our tickets on the eleventh hour. Had we booked our tickets earlier, it would have been a lot cheaper for us.

Anyway we began our trip to Frankfurt and when we reached the city, we were spell bound by the architecture of the city that was truly amazing. What we observed that the city had achieved a somewhat saturation level in terms of infrastructure with skyscrapers, highways and roads that highlight the city's economic might.

We continued our sightseeing tour of the city and saw places like the FrankFurt Zoo, Goethe Museum, Museum Fuer Moderne Kunst (Museum of Modern Art),

Senckenberg Naturmuseum (Natural History Museum), Palmengarten (Palm Garden), Judengasse Museum (Jewish Museum), Geld museum Deer Deutschemark Bondsman (Money Museum of the German Federal Bank), and

Sankt Bartholomaeusdom (Cathedral of St Bartholomew) that gave us a lot of insights into the architectural heritage of the city that has captivated tourists for centuries.

Our sightseeing tour of Frankfurt, revealed to us an interesting insight that even though it is a 'First-World' city, it has still retained its architectural and cultural heritage intact. Another interesting aspect of the city which we got to know was the fact that the city played host to innumerable trade fairs, exhibitions and conferences and attracted a lot of business travelers from across Europe, America, Africa, Asia and the Middle-East.

We returned very satisfied from our Frankfurt tour and if you also want to plan a trip to this lovely city, then we suggest you call up your travel agent and ask him to book your flights and tickets in advance for your next holiday.

You are sure to get an exciting flight deal and that's a guarantee!

The author writes frequently about the flights to Frankfurt and cheap Frankfurt flights options available to business and leisure travelers.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Luke_Chris_Brown

Sydney, the city to be in for a fine getaway

2011-09-03T04:13:00.000-07:00

The ancient city of Sydney has a unique character which is a fine blend of the colonial aura and contemporary exquisite bars and dining dens lined by enchanting scenery.
Cruise vacations are very popular in this harbor city in Australia. It is one of the highly thronged regions because of its impressive list of wonderful sights. Firstly, you have the Circular Quay (in the Port Jackson of Sydney Harbor) which is acknowledged as a heritage setting. It is where the Europeans first settled when they arrived in Australia in 1788. One of the most recognized areas in the harbor is the precinct of The Rock which displays a vibrant history with its well restored buildings of colonial feel. Go on a light stroll around the area to discover some of the best shopping destinations and food joints.
Then also you have the Hyde Park, Harbor Bridge and most certainly the world famous majestic Sydney Opera House. Besides, Sydney is a gateway to many other important ports like Tasmania and Melbourne

Pyramids, the Sahara and so much more, Egypt

2011-09-03T03:13:00.000-07:00

Egypt is a both fascinating and enigmatic country. Visit the magnificent land at least once in your lifetime to get a glimpse of its mystique wonders and a rich past.
The Pyramids of Egypt and The Great Sphinx are proud epitomes of archaic Egyptian architecture, which entice tourists from all over the world. Throng to the Cairo tower to get a glimpse of the breathtaking night view of the city. Cruise through the Nile to enjoy the stylish and luxurious scenery lining the river. Then you have the Luxor temple, Abu Simbel temple and Egyptian Museum (in Cairo) portraying the rich Egyptian power and culture.
Do not miss The Valley of the Kings where the Pharaohs were buried. Its chambers and tombs are still the subject for further discovery and exploration. The Red sea offers an array of aquatic adventures. Also visit the Dakhla oasis to get a glimpse of ancient Egyptian tradition. Camping in the Sahara desert is another tourist attraction in Egyp

Taj Mahal, an wonder in itself

2011-09-03T02:13:00.000-07:00

The magnificent Taj Mahal, one of the wonders of the world, was built by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan on the grave of his beloved queen Mumtaz. The mesmerizing monument is the epitome of love, elegance, grandeur and enthralls tourists, painters, artists, poets, sculptors and photographers from all over the world.
It took 22 long years and 20,000 laborers to create this phenomenal specimen of the archaic Mughal architecture and has now been declared as a world heritage site. The tomb stands on the bank of the Yamuna River, and is characterized by stylized calligraphy, fine arrangement of different precious stones, delicate carvings in white marble and the beautiful pietra dura art work.
Thus, do not miss the Taj Mahal if you are on a trip to India. The mystique Mahal looks best on a full moon night when the moonlight falls on its white marble creating an aura of love and romance.

destination for a getaway with your loved ones Costa Rica

2011-09-03T01:13:00.000-07:00

Are you one of the die-hard romantics who would want to walk arm in arm with your loved one. If yes, then there is no better place than Costa Rica It’s the land of perfect romantic getaways, and haven for lovers. Even a stranger exudes love in Costa Rica beaches and mountains. So if you are in Costa Rica take a romantic escapade with your better half to some of its best crannie beaches like the Punta Islitas, Avellanas, Punta Uvas, Playa Conchals and Esterillo.
It is a haven for adventure thrillers and beach lovers. Be it the Caribbean region or the Golfitos region or the pacific coasts for surfers everywhere in Costa Rica is a must see for romantics. A walk along the market area will introduce you to the best cafes, restaurants, coffee and wine shops, theatres and museums. So don’t look back, plan a perfect trip to the land of romances, Costa Rica. Proclaim your love in an invincible way. Have a serene walk along the cobbled alleys and historic streets.

Great sightseeing experience in France

2011-09-03T00:13:00.000-07:00

The countries of Europe, especially France, have never failed to beckon tourists from all across the globe. In fact, due to its natural beauties and artificial wonders, people flock there in huge numbers. The opportunity to engage in sightseeing in France is just like a once in a life time experience, that you are going to remember for the rest of your life. First and foremost is the romantic city of Paris, which possesses a host of wonderful sights. There’s the Louvre Museum and The Eiffel Tower, which are renowned for its magnificence and architectural genius throughout Earth.
One can also visit the numerous wineries that are distributed throughout the length and breadth of the country. The northern part of France, specifically Normandy, contains various monuments, cemeteries, D-Day sites, which can take you back to the medieval ages. South France has a rich collection of beaches, hilltop villages and big cities, offering the most relaxing, alluring and beautiful location

Sweden:Has some of the finest places to go to

2011-09-02T23:13:00.000-07:00

Sweden is situated in Northern Europe and it is among best places in Europe to go to. There are some wonderful tourist destinations in Sweden. Stockholm, the capital of Sweden is famous for wonderful museums, large parks, and an electrifying night life.
The Storsjon Lake is very popular for its legendary monster who resides in there. Beside this, the scenery around the lake is excellent. There are some wonderful beaches in the island of Gotland in the Baltic. Some of them have warm summer weather. The Inland Railways run all through the length of the Arctic Circle from Kristinehamn by the side of Lake Vanern to the Wilderness next to Gallivare, Lapland.
You will find some of the finest national parks and nature reserves in Sweden. The wild rivers, deep valleys, dark forests, high mountains will greatly impress you. There is a national park within the city border of Stockholm. Abisko and Padjelanta Park are the two most popular national parks.

The regency kuwait hotels

2011-09-02T22:13:00.000-07:00

The Regency Kuwait Hotel offers 215 rooms including 52 multifunctional outstanding suites. You will be astonished by our magnificent atrium sky light hotel Lobby with his unrivaled sea perspectives. The Regency Kuwait Hotel has second to none features like its two private beaches and 5 pools with one of each secluded to ladies and matchless in Kuwait as well as extensive first class food and beverage, fitness and SPA facilities.

The Regency Kuwait Hotel is renowned for his extensive 8000m2 exhibitions, conference and banqueting facilities across Kuwait and the entire Gulf region. All 21 meeting rooms are equipped with the utmost IT technology and will offer you the best experience whether for your conference, wedding or dinner events.

The Regency Kuwait Hotel is the conference, exhibition and hotel resort place to be in Kuwait where you will enjoy a memorable weekend retreat, a family communion, a special event or a productive business venue with the most excellent service in state of the art.

Ramada Hotel Kuwait

2011-09-02T21:13:00.000-07:00

Continental Suite Farwaniya Kuwait

2011-09-02T20:13:00.000-07:00

With its central location, Continental Farwaniya Hotel is within easy reach of most tourist attractions and business addresses in Kuwait. With the guests' convenience in mind, each of the 32 guestrooms at the hotel is well designed and fully equipped to cater to the demands of corporate and holiday travelers looking for unique accommodation in Kuwait. Each guestroom is tastefully appointed with non smoking rooms, air conditioning, internet access, television, separate shower and tub, mini bar, satellite/cable TV.This beautiful Kuwait accommodation provides elevator, coffee shop, bar/pub, laundry service/dry cleaning, meeting facilities to suit all guests' utmost convenience. The hotel offers gym, sauna, steamroom, outdoor pool to provide extra pleasure and relaxation for all guests. With elegant facilities and hospitality, guests at this hotel will surely have an impressive stay. Make your reservation at the Continental Farwaniya Hotel Kuwait now by selecting your chosen dates of stay and submitting our secure online booking form.

Hilton Kuwait Resort, Kuwait City

2011-09-02T19:13:00.000-07:00

This Kuwait City property has its very own private beach. Hilton Kuwait Resort offers a restaurant and a coffee shop/café. Business amenities at this 5.0-star property consist of a business center, secretarial services, and limo/town car service. In addition to a full-service spa, Hilton Kuwait Resort features an outdoor pool, a health club, a spa tub, and a sauna. Event facilities include conference/meeting rooms, small meeting rooms, and banquet facilities. For a surcharge, an airport shuttle is available to guests. This beach hotel also offers tennis courts, a fitness facility, and a steam room. Currency exchange and tour assistance can be provided. Onsite parking is complimentary.

Le Meridien Kuwait,

2011-09-02T18:13:00.000-07:00

The hotel overlooks the azure waters of the Persian Gulf and the glittering lights of the towers Kuwait and is within walking distance of the most known Dasman, a city with influences from East Africa and India.

Hawali Continental Hotel Kuwait

2011-09-02T17:13:00.000-07:00

Good budget hotel ,very suitable for small families or business travellers ,hotel is offering computer for personal use for long staying guests ,as well as kitchen utensils. RD05/08 Modern 4 storey building beige colour ,with small garden in the front . Hawally,Bin Khaldoun road,in the heart of the shopping area ,walking distance from the shopping malls,and fine restaurants,and 20 minutes from the international airport of Kuwait

Radisson Blu Hotel, Kuwait

2011-09-02T16:13:00.000-07:00

Situated by the beach in the fashionable area of Salwa, the Radisson Blu Hotel offers a wide range of facilities and services at a great location.
The hotel's 200 guest rooms are spacious, well-equipped and beautifully decorated. Guests of the Radisson Blu Kuwait will love the fantastic choice of food and beverage options at the hotel. Choose from Chinese, modern Indian, international, or try out the famous steak and seafood restaurant onboard a traditional Kuwaiti dhow.
The hotel has an exclusive beach club, the Blu Royal Viking Club, which guests have free access to. Enjoy the 300-metre private beach, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, the fully-equipped gym and the health centre.
The Radisson Blu Kuwait offers free limousine service to and from the airport, located 10 minutes' driving away, as well as a free shuttle bus to and from the city centre.

saxon boutique hotel and spa

2011-09-02T15:13:00.000-07:00

Johannesburg,south Africa

style:classic luxury,suites-24

the saxon redefineds the climate in luxurious african elegance.from the moment you arrive at this magnificient home away from ome within breakingly landscape garden setting ,you are enveloped in a wrld that belives it'sb close proximity to sandton,johannesberg prestigius business hub..here time ceases to be relevant

granoe roche-paarl southafrica

2011-09-02T14:13:00.000-07:00

Suitated on a working form in the heart of cape wine lands,grand roche is within easy reach of world class city of capetown,its airport and its many intresting places near to it.the hotel is with historic manor houseSet on the gentle slope of Paarl Mountain, it offers panoramic vistas of the mountains and valley, spectacular sunsets and a tranquil atmosphere -

bosman restaurant whip up gourment fare-light healthy,mouth-watering dishes using only finest local ingredient and fresh produce from a superb wine cellar.

mount nelson hotel

2011-09-02T13:13:00.000-07:00

Cape town ,south africa

For over 100 years visiting members of royal families ,international and local statesman ,celebrites and businessmen have preffered to stay at mont nelson hotel where they are assured of privacy ,comfort and care,mount nelson is just a 20 min walk to city center and 20 min by road to capetown -the oldest wine estate in country a uniqe features of mont nelson is it's four wings of luxurious accomodations- all set private gardens each of 57suitesand 144 bed rooms are indivudually furnished and luxuriosly appointed

Inter continental cairo semcramis

2011-09-02T12:13:00.002-07:00

cairo egypt

winner of best business hotel in cairo award courtesy of business traveller magazine since opening in 1987 hotel enjoys leading position among cario's premier hotel located on bank of nice in heart of city centre

hotel is well equipeed for hosting business and social gathering and can accomadate from 10 to 200 guest

sofitel chicago water tower-chicago

2011-09-02T12:13:00.001-07:00

Overview

Location.The Sofitel Chicago Water Tower is located one block from Rush Street nightlife and shopping on Michigan Avenue and Oak Street in Chicago, Ill. The John Hancock Center is two blocks from the hotel. Lake Michigan is five blocks away. Oak Street Beach, the River North Gallery District and Navy Pier are positioned one-half mile away.

Hotel Features.Dining venues include Café des Architectes that features Cuisine Nouvel in a contemporary setting with a terrace and lounge. Le Bar presents floor-to-ceiling windows, low chenille sofas and a library area with fireside seating. Commanding views of Lake Michigan and the skyline are showcased throughout the Sofitel Chicago Water Tower, including a ballroom with skylights with views of the John Hancock Center. Two complimentary business centers offer fax, photocopy and print services. The 24-hour complimentary SoFit fitness center contains cardiovascular equipment with complimentary headphones and free weights. Discounts to a nearby fitness center that features an indoor pool, steam rooms and personal trainers is available. Exhale Spa, located near the hotel, provides spa services on site by appointment. The hotel offers special pampering services for pets, including chrome-plated bowls, grooming and aromatherapy services, and complimentary gourmet treats.

Guestrooms.The 32-story Sofitel Chicago Water Tower offers 415 guestrooms with light-wood furnishings and photographs of Chicago architecture. Premium bedding includes feather mattresses and duvets and down pillows. Flat-panel televisions, MP3 adaptors and high-speed Internet access, for a fee, are available in each room. Marble bathrooms provide separate bathtubs, robes, slippers, candles and lighted mirrors.
Expert Tip.Don't forget to ask the concierge about the 11-percent-off coupon for Bloomingdales and Macy's on Michigan Avenue, located one block away. The concierge desk keeps abreast of current sales and promotions at both department stores and are more than willing to share this information.

Pezula Resort Hotel and Spa, Knysna

2011-09-02T12:13:00.000-07:00

Located on the Eastern Head of Knysna on the exquisite Western Cape coastline, just a 40-minute flight from Cape Town, Pezula Resort Hotel & Spa is surrounded by rugged cliffs, ancient forests and sheltered beaches. With sweeping views of Pezula Championship Golf Course, the Indian Ocean and the Knysna Lagoon, it is a haven of privacy and luxury.

accommodation

Eighty three stylish suites, including two presidential suites, are housed in detached villas and deliver a whole new world of luxury in an elegant African style. Each has its own patio or balcony, individual climate control, satellite television, a DVD player, electronic safe, direct telephone, Wi-Fi connectivity and walk-in wardrobe. A pantry kitchen with delicious deli snacks, a well stocked drinks cabinet and real log fireplaces add unparalleled luxury to the accommodation.

Bathrooms are huge with oval-shaped calabash baths and wet rooms big enough for two. Beds are beautifully dressed with Egyptian cotton linen and guests are supplied with luxurious toweling gowns and slippers.

AMENITIES

The main building houses a sumptuous cigar lounge, champagne and whisky bar, library, wine cellar and gourmet restaurant, Zachary’s. Executive chef Geoffrey Murray delights in serving up the freshest local ingredients in his inimitable style. His menu offers a variety of ‘modern ethnic’ dishes inspired by his worldwide experiences.

The hotel offers a number of other exciting dining options. The Boma is the ideal venue for a meal with an authentic African feel. Sit around the open fire as you watch a spectacular African sunset. As the light begins to fade, allow the sounds of the night to seduce your senses. Then relax at the elegant safari-style table while the staff prepare and serve traditional barbeque fair.

The Montrose Castle on the beach offers hotel guests a stunning beach venue. Recently renovated, the castle, which was built in the 1930s, is on Noetzie Beach, one of the most unspoilt and secluded beaches on the Garden Route coast. Here hotel guests can enjoy a picnic prepared by Zachary’s restaurant while they relax and soak up the sun.

pezula spa & gym

Situated on the lower level of the hotel, the multi-award-winning Pezula Spa is a calm sanctuary that reflects the soul of Africa and provides world-class professionalism in the delivery of a superior health and wellness experience. This year the spa was named One of the top three Best Overseas Hotel Spas in the 2010 Condé Nast Readers' Travel Awards.

The extraordinary facilities of the Pezula Spa include a 12m heated indoor pool, state-of-the-art gymnasium, outdoor Jacuzzi, sauna and steam room, rainforest shower, nail bar, hair salon and nine therapy rooms, as well as a post-treatment room with heated water beds. It offers a comprehensive range of treatments which combine natural therapies with the most technologically advanced equipment available.

activities

Guests of Pezula also have access to a vast range of activities including horse riding and hiking through the ancient indigenous forests, canoeing up the pristine Noetzie River, birding, nature trails and beach activities at secluded Noetzie Beach. The estate’s Field of Dreams sporting complex offers four world-class tennis courts, a multi-purpose sports oval for soccer, cricket, soft ball and other team sports, facilities for pétanque and archery and a 300m golf practice range.

Younger guests are well catered for in season with a number of supervised activities. Parents and guardians can be totally confident that their children will be taken care of by trained, experienced child minders. At Pezula the emphasis is on fun in a healthy, natural environment and wherever possible children are encouraged to play outdoors, interact with other children and learn about nature. Babysitters are available in the evenings if parents wish to dine alone.

pezula golf course

Pezula Championship Golf Course adjacent to Pezula Resort Hotel & Spa is a sweeping spectacle of fairways and greens rolling through the pristine Southern Cape landscape. The breathtaking, award-winning 18-hole course which was designed by David Dale and Ronald Fream of GolfPlan USA, rates amongst the best and the most scenic golf courses in the world.

The Clubhouse facilities are in keeping with the overall five-star experience and include a terrace, restaurant, bar, golf shop, short game practice area and putting green. The Shareholders' Lounge houses a library, private lounge, dining area and bar. Golf carts are obligatory and the resort's carts are fully equipped with GPS systems and computerised scoring. Golf lessons are available from the Club's PGA Professionals.

grand hotel kempinski-geneva switzerland

2011-09-02T11:13:00.000-07:00

Situated on the shores of Lake Geneva, the 5-star Grand Hotel Kempinski Geneva offers panoramic views of the Jet d’eau fountain and the Mont Blanc and an indoor pool.

All rooms have floor-to-ceiling windows and feature marble bathrooms. Many rooms offer breathtaking views of the Jura Mountains, the Alps and Lake Geneva.

The hotel features 3 restaurants and a terrace lounge & bar overlooking the lake. The Restaurant Floor Two offers all-day dining in a cosy atmosphere with a panoramic view over the lake and the city. The Tse Yang serves excellent Chinese cuisine in an authentic atmosphere. The Grill specialises in succulent steaks and sizzling seafood.

The bar is a trend-setting place with white leather sofas, dark floors and chrome fittings. A lift will take you down to the Java Night Club.

Additional features include an indoor pool, a fitness centre, a hairdresser, a night-club and a shopping centre located on the ground floor.

In June 2010, the hotel has opened a 1.400 m² spa.

The Grand Hotel Kempinski Geneva is ideally situated, within a short walking distance from the old town and the United Nations.

Hotel Rooms: 412, Hotel Chain: Kempinski.

Hotel Facilities

General

Restaurant, Bar, 24-Hour Front Desk, Newspapers, Terrace, Non-Smoking Rooms, Rooms/Facilities for Disabled Guests, Elevator, Safety Deposit Box, Soundproofed Rooms, Heating, Design Hotel, Luggage Storage, Shops in Hotel, Airconditioning, Restaurant (à la carte).

Activities

Fitness Centre, Solarium, Spa & Wellness Centre, Massage, Turkish/Steam Bath, Turkish bath, Indoor Swimming Pool, Indoor Swimming Pool (all year).

Services

Room Service, Meeting/Banquet Facilities, Airport Shuttle, Business Centre, Babysitting/Child Services, Laundry, Dry Cleaning, Barber/Beauty Shop, VIP Room Facilities, Breakfast in the Room, Ironing Service, Currency Exchange, Souvenirs/Gift Shop, Shoe Shine, Car Hire, Fax/Photocopying, Nightclub / DJ.

Internet

Free! Wireless Internet Hotspot is available in the entire hotel and is free of charge.

Parking

Public parking is possible on site (reservation is not needed) and costs CHF 35 per day.

Children and extra beds

Free! All children under 12 years stay free of charge when using existing bedding.

Free! All children under 2 years stay free of charge for cots.

All older children or adults are charged CHF 100 per night per person for extra beds.

Maximum capacity of extra beds/babycots in a room is 1.

Any type of extra bed or baby cot is upon request and needs to be confirmed by the hotel.

Supplements will not be calculated automatically in the total costs and have to be paid separately in the hotel.

hotel di carillon-paris,france

2011-09-02T10:13:00.003-07:00

Designated as a unique historical monument, the Hotel de Crillon is an elegant 18th century luxury hotel situated on the world famous Place De La Concorde in the heart of Paris. Only a few steps away from the Champs-Elysees, the Faubourg Saint Honore shopping area and all major museums, the Hotel de Crillon is the place to stay in Paris. This mythical hotel is rich in history and culture. Decorated in a Louis XV style, the hotel's 147 guest rooms and suites include Presidential apartments and the exceptional Louis XV and Leonard Bernstein suites. With 140 square meters of terrace, tall windows allowing abundant light, warm colors and wood-paneling, these renowned suites offer magnificent views of Paris, the Eiffel Tower proudly visible from a luxurious bubble-bath. Offering its guests the highest level of personalized service is the ultimate goal of Hotel de Crillon.
The gourmet restaurant Les Ambassadeurs, the former ballroom of the Dukes de Crillon, is the perfect venue for an intense and unforgettable moment. Guests can also try L'Obe restaurant with its Parisian atmosphere and creative Cuisine.

Overview

Location.

Situated in Paris's Champs Elysees neighborhood, Hôtel de Crillon is close to Place de la Concorde, Musee d'Orsay, and Paris Opera. Also nearby are Louvre and Arc de Triomphe.

Hotel Features.

Hôtel de Crillon has a health club, a sauna, and a fitness facility. Complimentary wireless and wired high-speed Internet access is available in public areas. Business amenities at this 5.0-star property include a business center, small meeting rooms, and a technology helpdesk. The hotel offers 3 restaurants along with a coffee shop/café and a bar/lounge. For a surcharge, guests have access to an airport shuttle (available on request). Event facilities consist of a ballroom, conference/meeting rooms, and banquet facilities. The staff can arrange concierge services, wedding services, event catering, and business services. Additional amenities include a coffee shop/café, multilingual staff, and laundry facilities.

Guestrooms.

Hôtel de Crillon has 147 guestrooms. Rooms feature balconies with city or courtyard views. Televisions are equipped with premium satellite channels, DVD players, and pay movies. Complimentary wireless and wired high-speed Internet access is provided. All accommodations provide desks, in-room safes, and direct-dial phones with voice mail. All units feature coffee/tea makers and complimentary bottled water. Bathrooms offer shower/tub combinations, phones, scales, and bathrobes. Additional amenities include CD players, climate control, and minibars. In addition, amenities available on request include a turndown service, irons/ironing boards, and hypo-allergenic bedding. Housekeeping is offered daily.

shutters on beach

2011-09-02T10:13:00.002-07:00

Location.

Shutters on the Beach is located on the beach in Santa Monica's Beach Cities neighborhood, close to Santa Monica Pier and Venice Beach. Other points of interest are J. Paul Getty Museum and Loyola Marymount University.

Hotel Features.

Shutters on the Beach features a restaurant and a bar/lounge. Room service is available 24 hours a day. Recreational amenities include an outdoor pool, a health club, a spa tub, and a steam room. The property's full-service health spa has massage/treatment rooms and beauty services. This 4.5-star property has a business center and offers small meeting rooms, audio-visual equipment, and business services. High-speed Internet access is available in public areas. This Santa Monica property has event space consisting of banquet facilities, conference/meeting rooms, and a ballroom. Wedding services and tour assistance are available. Guest parking is available for a surcharge. Additional property amenities include valet parking, a concierge desk, and multilingual staff. This is a smoke-free property.

Policies

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on hotel policy.
Guests must show current government-issued proof of identity at the time of check-in.
Photo identification and credit card or cash deposit are required at check-in for incidental charges.
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges. Special requests cannot be guaranteed.
Minimum Spring Break check-in age is 21 years old.
Pet fee charged at hotel/condo
Small pets only
Check-out time is: noon
Check-in time starts at: 4 PM
Minimum check-in age is: 21
Minimum guest age is: 21

Fees

The following fees and deposits are charged by the property at time of service, check-in, or check-out.
Valet parking: US$ 34 per day (in/out privileges)
Pet fee: US$ 35 per day
The above list may not be comprehensive. Fees and deposits may not include tax and are subject to change.

Awards and Affiliations

Shutters on the Beach is listed in the 2006 Condé Nast Traveler Gold List of the world's best places to stay and the 2007 Travel + Leisure 500.
The property is a member of the Leading Hotels of the World.

Accessibility Options

To make requests for specific accessibility needs, complete the “Special or Accessibility Requests” section of “Trip Preferences” when you book your hotel.
Accessible path of travel
Accessible bathroom
Roll-in shower
Handicapped parking
In-room accessibility

Property Amenities

Recreating the ambience of historic seaside resorts of the 1920s and 1930s, luxurious Shutters on the Beach faces the golden sands of Santa Monica beach. Two blocks away is the historic Santa Monica Pier with amusements and restaurants.

Rooms

Stylish rooms are decorated to depict private beach cottages. White shutters cover windows that open, and some rooms have shutters that open to balconies or patios with white wicker furniture. Four-poster beds feature pillowtop mattresses, duvets, and 200-thread-count custom cotton linens.

Dining

One Pico - Fine dining restaurant. Seasonally changing menus of modern American cuisine. Dinner menu items might include Striped Bass, Ceci Bean Salad, and Cherry Tomatoes; Smoked and Braised Short Rib, Polenta, and Parsley Salad; and Halibut, Roasted Artichokes, Porcini, and Celery. Lunch, dinner, and Sunday brunch. Reservations required.

Recreation

Facing the beach and surrounded by a large sundeck and lounge chairs are a year-round outdoor pool and spa tub. In addition to cardio-, weight-, and strength-training equipment, the complimentary health club provides women's and men's locker rooms and a steam room. Personal trainers (surcharge) can be arranged for sessions in the health club or on the beach.

Spa

ONE the Spa offers a menu of treatments from Ole Henriksen and SkinCeuticals designed to relax, revitalize, and restore your body and mind.

Crown Plaza Dubai

2011-09-02T10:13:00.001-07:00

Overview

Touted as the largest 5-star hotel in the area, the Crowne Plaza offers something for everyone with its wide array of accommodations, from standard rooms to executive suites and fully furnished apartments. Centrally located in Bur Dubai, it is within walking distance of the International Convention Centre and the nearby BurJuman Shopping Mall. The Dubai World Trade Centre is also nearby. Dubai is a “Shopper’s Paradise”, and visitors will find an abundance shopping venues to visit, including the more “traditional” style of shopping with Dubai’s famous Gold and Spice Souks. Take advantage of the hotel’s shuttle services to the beach and some of the nearby shopping malls. To learn more about the Dubai of yesteryear, guests can visit some of the many historic and cultural sites in the area, such as the Dubai Museum, Bastakiya, or Heritage Village. Take in a popular sightseeing tour to visit some of Dubai’s major attractions such as Burj Al Arab, the Burj Khalifa, and the Palm Jumeirah. Ski Dubai, the Region’s largest indoor ski resort, is also a popular family attraction. After returning from a day out, indulge in one of the hotel’s renowned restaurants, offering cuisines from around the world. For real pampering, guests can enjoy the state-of-the-art Club Floor Lounge with its exclusive services such as a personal hotelier, or a Thai or reflexology massage. The Crowne Plaza Dubai also houses an award-winning nightclub, known as Zinc.

Location

Located in Dubai’s downtown area of Bur Dubai on Sheikh Zayed Road. Near the International Convention Centre and 15 minutes from Dubai International Airport.

Hotel Features

Largest 5-Star Hotel : Recognized as the largest 5-star hotel in the area

Wide Array of Accommodations : Offering everything from standard rooms to fully furnished apartments.

Award-Winning Nightclub : Zinc is a popular “hot spot” in Dubai

Specialized Services : State-of- the-art Club Floor lounge and personal hotelier services

Hotel Facilities

Business Cente
High Speed Internet (surcharge)
Banquet Facilities
Conference/Meeting Rooms
24 Hour Front Desk
Terrace
Non-Smoking Rooms
Facilities for the Disabled
Family Rooms
Designated Smoking Area
24 Hour Room Service
Currency Exchange

Fitness Center
Swimming Pool
Sauna/Spa
Massage Services
Squash Courts
Fitness Center
Beauty Salon
Gift Shop
Florist
Laundry /Dry Cleaning Service
Babysitting Service
Tour Desk

Car Rental
Parking
Facilities for the Disabled
Airport Shuttle
Bridal Suite
Shoe Shine
Fax/Photocopying
ATM
Concierge
Nightclub/DJ
Shuttle Service (surcharge)
Trouser Press

Guest Rooms

Room Amenities:

Air Conditioning
High Speed Internet
International Direct Dial Phone
Voicemail
Work Area

Satellite TV
CD and DVD Players
In-Room Movies
Mini-Bar
In-Room Safe

Executive Club Room Additional Amenities:

Complimentary Drinks and Lunch Snacks
Butler Service
Private Dining Area

Whirlpool
Continental Breakfast

Restaurants & Bars

Al Dana Café: This café offers International cuisine24 hours a day, including a buffet and themed-night menus.

Al Tannour: Enjoy an evening with Lebanese cuisine and a traditional belly dancer.

Al Fresco: Experience a traditional-style Italian dinner in the open courtyard surroundings.

Café Barbera: This Italian café offers a quiet relaxing atmosphere.

Cappuccino’s: Offers a great selection of pastries, teas, and coffees.

Harvesters: Enjoy this traditional pub with weekend winter BBQ and "Pub Grub”.

Sakura: For an authentic Japanese experience try Sakura with its live teppanyaki tables and sushi bar.

Trader Vic’s: This world –renowned restaurant definitely lives up to its reputation for fine food and entertainment with its live Cuban Band.

Wagamama: The world’s leading noodle restaurant offering an array of Pan-Asian dishes.

Western Steakhouse: Enjoy an American Angus steak or delicious seafood with its fine selection of wines.

Zinc Bar and Club: Dance the night away at this famous Dubai club, with its DJ’s and live music.

Cancellation Policy

A full refund is made when cancellation is done 02 days prior to arrival, else 01 night charges will be applied. No show: 01 night will be charged. Early departure: charges of full booking duration are applicable.

Child Policy

Children below 12yrs of age can stay free of charge when sharing existing beddings. Children below 6yrs get complimentary meals. Children aged between 6 & 12 years are entitled to 50% discount on meals. Children aged 12yrs & above are considered as adults and charged accordingly.

easyJet shares mobile success at Google's Think Mobile

2011-09-01T21:25:00.000-07:00

type="html">Think Mobile, Google's annual event dedicated to the mobile advertising (R)evelution took place recently at the Royal Opera House in London. If you didn't make it in person, fear not! You can find the presentations on the
Think Mobile YouTube channel.

As we've said in other blog postings, we keep hearing great mobile success stories from Travel advertisers. One such story comes from easyJet, which saw a return of $11 for ever $1 spent on mobile; this is higher than their return on desktop search ads.

In the video below, easyJet UK Marketing Manager, Katie Stitson, speaks about the approach, testing methodology and results achieved.

Posted by Nate Bucholz, Industry Manager, Travel