AirGuide Hotel and Resort News

As Holidays near, Domestic Hotel Rates Drop While International Rates Increase

2009-12-10T09:58:00.001-05:00

Travelocity’s most recent data for hotel rooms booked over the holidays (December 20, 2009 – January 3, 2010) shows average daily rates have been falling as the popular vacation period nears. A week-by-week analysis shows that over a 14 week period ending November 28, overall ADR has dropped from $181 per night to $150 per night.
“During a period when hotel prices are typically at their highest, rates have shown a steady decline, but they may not go much lower,” said Genevieve Shaw Brown, Travelocity senior editor.
However, while domestic hotel rates are declining, international hotel rates are rising as the holiday season approaches. Though domestic and international hotel rates for the aforementioned check-in dates were similar in late August ($181 per night and $182 per night, respectively) domestic rates have fallen to an average of $131 per night and international hotel rates have risen to $203 per night.
“The best deals for the December holidays are found stateside,” said Genevieve Shaw Brown, Travelocity’s senior editor. “Factor in rising airfare for the holidays and it’s clear the best deals may be those closer to home.”
Domestic rates are lower year over year, while international rates are slightly higher. As of the end of November 2008, domestic rates for the holiday period were about $10 more per night, while international rates were about $3 less.
AirGuide and AirGuideBusiness
ISSN 1544-3760 - Copyright © 2009 AirGuide / Pyramid Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved.

Elegant Ireland Promotes Ross Castle for Family Vacations

2009-12-09T10:26:00.000-05:00

Elegant Ireland is promoting Ross Castle, located on a 120-acre estate on Ross Lake in County Galway, Ireland. The 16th century manor house with interconnecting apartments is one of the county’s top family reunion vacation rentals. Comfortably sleeping up to 36 guests, the estate is enveloped in a setting of mountains, lake, gardens, parkland and forest, creating a secluded world for families to reconnect and celebrate. The main house of Ross Castle has been resorted to meet contemporary standards, while honoring old-world Irish design. Five bedrooms all have adjoining bathrooms with showers and heated towel rails. It features an elegant drawing room, complete with two Steinway grand pianos, Persian carpets, fine oil paintings and an antique chess table, plus three windows that command a stunning view of nearby mountains and lake. There’s an indoor heated swimming pool and tennis court. Adjacent to the main house lays the grand courtyard surrounded by self-catering units, two cottages, four interconnecting apartments and a chapel. Services include breakfast, dinner with wine service, personal laundry and cleaning. The five bedrooms in the Main House all have adjoining bathrooms with showers and heated towel rails. Ross Castle sleeps up to 10 in Manor House, plus 26 in adjacent buildings. One week costs in the region of $25,000 for up to 10 guests, in the manor house, inclusive of staff and meals. For more information, call 011-353 1 473 2505, email info@elegant.ie or visit www.elegant.ie.
AirGuide and AirGuideBusiness
ISSN 1544-3760 - Copyright © 2009 AirGuide / Pyramid Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved.

France's Hotel du Palais Joins Comite Colbert

2009-12-08T10:25:00.000-05:00

The Hotel du Palais, a palace built in 1855 by Napoleon III as a summer mansion for Empress Eugenia, is a new member of the exclusive Comite Colbert. The union of this hotel and elite luxury association supports their confidence in French luxury. Comite Colbert invited a total of five luxury houses at one time to become members on Nov. 26, including Les Editions Diane de Selliers, Lorenz Baumer, Pierre Herme and Pierre Hardy, in addition to Hotel du Palais.
Founded in 1954 at the initiative of Jean-Jacques Guerlain, the Comité Colbert, an association governed by the French law of 1901, has a membership of 75 houses of luxury whose object is to collectively promote their shared values in France and internationally. Their quest is to combine tradition and modernity, craftsmanship and creativity, history and innovation. For more information, visit www.comitecolbert.com.
Hotel du Palais located in France’s Basque Country overlooks the beach and the Atlantic Ocean. Owned by the city of Biarritz, the hotel has been permanently restored and now boasts a five-story Guerlain spa. Rooms with balconies and Atlantic views contain furniture and decorations dating from the Second Empire. For more information, call 011-33 (0) 5 59 41 64 00 or visit www.hotel-du-palais.com.
AirGuide and AirGuideBusiness
ISSN 1544-3760 - Copyright © 2009 AirGuide / Pyramid Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved.

InterContinental Hotels Group

2009-12-07T10:26:00.000-05:00

InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) and Saudi-based investment holding company, Siraj Capital, announced the locations of the first three Holiday Inn Express hotels to become operational in the kingdom. The three new hotels will be located in Madinah Road, Jeddah; Knowledge Economic City, Madinah; and King Abdullah Economic City under a master franchise agreement between IHG and Siraj which will see 12 Holiday Inn Express hotels open in Saudi Arabia over the next five years. Holiday Inn Express is a well-established limited-service hotel brand in Europe and the United States. Holiday Inn Express is an uncomplicated hotel choice for guests on the go, offering the quality and service of a Holiday Inn with pared-down facilities to suit the needs of guests on the move. The agreement for the development of the first three locations was signed at the InterContinental Jeddah by John Bamsey, chief operating officer, IHG Middle East and Africa; and Ibrahim A. Mardam-Bey, chief executive officer, Siraj Capital. As the master franchisee for the development, operation and management of the Holiday Inn Express brand across the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Siraj Capital has banked on the value of the brand. The first three Holiday Inn Express properties in Saudi Arabia will offer 575 rooms. The hotel at Madinah Road, Jeddah will offer 252 rooms, King Abdullah Economic City will feature 183 rooms, and there will be 140 rooms at Knowledge Economic City, Madinah. For more information, visit www.ihg.com.
AirGuide and AirGuideBusiness
ISSN 1544-3760 - Copyright © 2009 AirGuide / Pyramid Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved.

Bangkok's Mandarin Oriental Hotel

2009-12-02T10:49:00.000-05:00

Bangkok's Mandarin Oriental Hotel and Singapore Airlines were named the best in their sector in an annual Asian business travel survey that also revealed people had become more resigned to no-frills flights.
About 462 readers of Hong Kong-based Finance Asia magazine took part in an online survey with the results published in the November issue.
Bangkok's Mandarin Oriental was named the region's top hotel for the second year running, followed by the Four Seasons in Hong Kong and the Mandarin Oriental in the same city.
Singapore Airlines, which regularly wins people's choice awards, was voted as having the best business and first class service.
For flights to New York and London, however, Hong Kong's Cathay Pacific was ranked readers' preferred airline.
But while 42 percent of those polled said flying had become a less pleasant experience, the figure was lower than last year's 48 percent, a drop the magazine attributed to greater acceptance of stringent security checks and delays.
"Perhaps we've become inured to the security checks and delays, and are increasingly accepting of the new rules," wrote Lara Wozniak, the magazine's editor.
"That explains why most of our readers were positive about travel -- even as 51 percent responded that they flew more economy class this year than in 2008."
With the economic downturn curbing business travel globally, the survey showed for most people, their best inflight experience was getting an upgrade. Attractive ticket prices were the second-most popular perk, the magazine said.
As for the best place to touch down or take off, Hong Kong International Airport was voted the region's best.
AirGuide and AirGuideBusiness
ISSN 1544-3760 - Copyright © 2009 AirGuide / Pyramid Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved.

Skyscanner Hotel and Rental Car Comparison Rolls Out Worldwide

2009-11-11T11:52:00.001-05:00

Travel search site Skyscanner (http://www.Skyscanner.com) is continuing its drive into international markets with the launch of its ancillary travel comparison services across all 24 of its top level domains, including the Spanish, German, Portuguese, Russian and Japanese Skyscanner sites. Americans can find bargains in US dollars for destinations at home and abroad on the separate USA website.
The hotel comparison tool allows users to search over 200,000 hotels to find the best deals and is now available in 20 languages. The rental car tool searches over 500 leading car rental companies and suppliers to find the lowest prices on vehicle rentals and is now available in 17 languages.
Barry Smith, Skyscanner co-founder and company director said:
"Skyscanner flight search has been available in 20 languages for almost two years; now we can offer our international users the best deals on car rentals and hotels too. We already have a massive user base outside of the UK and this launch further boosts Skyscanner's profile as a one stop travel shop in these markets".
The release follows the news of Skyscanner completing its BRIC domain portfolio, upsizing to new offices and hiring a team of international marketing managers to help Skyscanner's continued expansion into non-English speaking countries.
AirGuide and AirGuideBusiness
ISSN 1544-3760 - Copyright © 2009 AirGuide / Pyramid Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved.

Orlando World Center Marriott Debuts Holiday Getaway

2009-11-11T11:43:00.001-05:00

Orlando World Center Marriott Resort is offering Florida residents a special holiday getaway. From only $159 to $349 per room, per night, now through Jan. 2, 2010, Florida residents can experience an overnight stay, complimentary upgrade to a pool-view room, complimentary breakfast buffet for two adults and children 12 and under, and complimentary self parking. For more information, call 888-99-WORLD and ask for rate code FR6, or visit www.marriottworldcenter.com.
AirGuide and AirGuideBusiness
ISSN 1544-3760 - Copyright © 2009 AirGuide / Pyramid Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved.

New York's Trump International Hotel Plans $30 Million Renovation

2009-11-11T11:42:00.001-05:00

Trump International Hotel & Tower New York, the flagship property of the growing Trump Hotel Collection, revealed plans for an extensive multimillion-dollar renovation of its 167 guest rooms and suites beginning in January 2010. Engineered for a seamless, quiet transition invisible to guests, the renovation of the hotel will happen in two stages, with half of the rooms being addressed January through April, and the balance in June through September. The hotel will remain open throughout the process. Trump Hotel Collection’s senior executives -- Donald J. Trump Jr., Ivanka Trump and Eric Trump -- are leading the New York hotel’s extravagant $30 million renovation. Proposed design and amenities are reflected in a model room, featuring a rich, dramatic color palette of gray and aubergine with neutral accents of ivory and caramel. Seating in plush, high-contrast upholstered velvets and silky fabrics will be paired with rich rosewood, mahogany, maple and walnut finishes. A handcrafted Schonbek crystal chandelier surmounting the dining table will lend romantic allure. Luxe shagreen fabric, burnished gold leaf, bronze, mirror and glass will add glamorous touches, along with sumptuous purple velvet draperies and opulent silk accent walls. Trump International Hotel & Tower Chicago and Trump International Hotel Las Vegas joined Trump Hotel Collection in 2008. Trump International Hotel Waikiki Beach Walk will open on Nov. 16, 2009, followed by Trump SoHo New York on Feb. 1, 2010. For more information, call 888-448-7867 or visit www.TrumpNewYorkHotel.com.
AirGuide and AirGuideBusiness
ISSN 1544-3760 - Copyright © 2009 AirGuide / Pyramid Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved.

Wynn Resorts is Proud to Announce 2010 AAA and Forbes Travel Guide Awards and Distinctions

2009-11-10T12:01:00.001-05:00

Wynn Las Vegas and Encore continue to set the bar for luxury and excellence in Las Vegas, earning top honors from the 2010 Forbes Travel Guide Star awards (formerly Mobil Travel Guide Star awards) and the 2010 American Automobile Association (AAA) Diamond Awards.
Wynn and Encore collectively have more Forbes Five Star awards than any other casino resort in the world.
Andrew Pascal, President of Wynn Las Vegas and Encore, comments: "These prestigious accolades recognize our ongoing commitment to exceptional service and quality at Wynn Las Vegas and Encore. I couldn’t be prouder of my colleagues and coworkers and their accomplishments. We are thrilled that Forbes and AAA have chosen to celebrate Wynn for four consecutive years and Encore in its first year of operation."
The Tower Suites at Wynn Las Vegas has earned a Forbes Five Star rating for four consecutive years, and the Tower Suites at Encore has received the Forbes Five Star award in its first year.
Wynn Las Vegas is also the only casino resort in the world to make Forbes Award history by earning Five Star ratings in every category--Hotel, Restaurant and Spa--for two consecutive years. The Tower Suites at Wynn Las Vegas, Alex restaurant and The Spa each earned Five Star recognition in 2009 and 2010 for their achievements attaining the highest standards of excellence.
The Spa at Wynn Las Vegas and The Spa at Encore are the only spas in Las Vegas to be recognized with Forbes Five Star award. Only 18 spas in the world have attained this distinction in 2010. Previously, The Spa at Wynn Las Vegas garnered acclaim from the Mobil Travel Guide with three consecutive Four Star award wins in 2006, 2007 and 2008, and a Five-Star award in 2009. The Spa at Encore also received a Forbes Five Star award in its first year of operation for 2010.
The incomparable dining experiences at Wynn Las Vegas were also recognized in 2010 by the Forbes Travel Guide and AAA. Alex, Alessandro Stratta’s namesake restaurant, received the Forbes Five Star and AAA Five Diamond awards for its fourth consecutive year.
AAA Four Diamond ratings were also awarded for the fourth consecutive year to Bartolotta Ristorante di Mare, Daniel Boulud Brasserie, Okada, SW Steakhouse and Wing Lei.
Forbes Travel Guide’s proprietary ratings process is based on more than 750 standardized criteria for hotels and more than 250 for restaurants. Forbes Five Star destinations are "exceptionally distinctive luxury environments offering expanded amenities and consistently superlative service, with attention to detail and the anticipation of every need."
The AAA Five Diamond award is also one of the most coveted honors for the hospitality industry. AAA describes Five Diamond resorts as "establishments that reflect the characteristics of the ultimate in luxury and sophistication; accommodations that are first class; and physical attributes extraordinary in every manner."
AirGuide and AirGuideBusiness
ISSN 1544-3760 - Copyright © 2009 AirGuide / Pyramid Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved.

Starwood Hotels Announces the Sale of the St. Regis New York's Retail Space for $117 Million

2009-11-05T10:27:00.002-05:00

Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. announced today that the Company has closed on the sale of 24,700 square feet of retail space at the St. Regis New York to GFC Fifth Avenue LLC, an investment group led by the Chera family’s Crown Acquisitions, Lloyd Goldman and the Feil Organization. The sales price of $117 million represents a 5% cap rate on anticipated 2009 NOI.
Sale proceeds will go towards additional debt paydown.
AirGuide and AirGuideBusiness
ISSN 1544-3760 - Copyright © 2009 AirGuide / Pyramid Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved.

New York's Glen Cove Mansion Offers Meetings Package

2009-11-05T10:26:00.003-05:00

The Glen Cove Mansion Hotel and Conference Center announced a special package for new meetings booked from November through March 31, 2010. Called the “Book and Save Fall-Winter Meeting Package,” the deal offers incentive pricing from $199 Complete Meeting Package (CMP), as well as special added amenities based on rooms booked -- book 50 to 99 guestrooms, select an incentive; book 100 to 149 guestrooms, select two incentives; and book 150 or more rooms, select three incentives. Incentives include five upgrades to deluxe rooms; a beer and wine reception; outdoor movie night (weather permitting); one VIP full-suite upgrade; golf putting green and driving range for five attendees; complimentary room ratio of one per 30 paid group room nights; 25 percent allowable attrition; complimentary staff meals for up to four staff members; no cancellation fees 30 days out; American Express Gift Cards from $100 and up, based on total paid group room nights; complimentary Internet in breakout rooms; and one complimentary upgrade to Executive Rooms for every 25 room nights.
Planners are requested to mention Book and Save Fall-Winter Meetings Promotion at the point of booking to qualify for this package. The Glen Cove Mansion CMP includes accommodations; breakfast, lunch and dinner in the mansion’s Garden Terrace Restaurant; continuous refreshment break stations; standard audiovisual package and services; conference space set to the customer’s specifications; personal, professional conference planner; and taxes and gratuities. To learn more about the “Book and Save Fall-Winter Meeting Package” or to book a meeting, contact Lisa Jordan, director of sales, at 888-MTGS-GCM or visit www.GlenCoveMeetings.com.
AirGuide and AirGuideBusiness
ISSN 1544-3760 - Copyright © 2009 AirGuide / Pyramid Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved.

Boston's The Colonnade Rolls Out Frosty Fridays

2009-11-05T10:26:00.001-05:00

From now through March 31, 2010, guests reserving the two-night Frosty Fridays weekend package at Boston’s The Colonnade Hotel will pay a rate for their room that is the equivalent of the outside temperature on Friday night, based on the 5 p.m. reading by the National Weather Service. If the temperature is 19 degrees on Friday night, guests pay $19 for their Friday night stay and a special rate of $295 for Saturday night. The Frosty Fridays package includes a double occupancy luxe room, and the choice of two tickets to either the Old Town Trolley Tour or admission and skating rentals at The Boston Common Frog Pond Skating Rink, hot chocolate for two at Brasserie JO and overnight parking. This package is based on a two-night stay and is subject to applicable taxes and availability. We advise you to check your Farmers’ Almanac and make your reservation early. For reservations or more information, call 800-962-3030 or visit www.colonnadehotel.com or www.preferredhotelgroup.com.
AirGuide and AirGuideBusiness
ISSN 1544-3760 - Copyright © 2009 AirGuide / Pyramid Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved.

American Airlines Announces the 'Find Yourself Up in the Air' Online Auction and Sweepstakes to Celebrate the Upcoming Paramount Pictures Film, 'Up in

2009-11-04T13:07:00.002-05:00

American Airlines has introduced a unique online auction to celebrate the new Paramount Pictures film, "Up in the Air," from Oscar®-nominated director Jason Reitman and starring Oscar winner George Clooney. The film is scheduled to be released in theaters across the country this December.
American's new "Find Yourself Up in the Air" online auction runs now through Jan. 5, 2010. AAdvantage members can use their AAdvantage miles to bid on travel packages, elite benefits, unique experiences, items related to the "Up in the Air" movie, and much more. All AAdvantage miles from winning bids will be donated to the Miles for Kids in Need program. A few of the many items up for bid include:

One-year AAdvantage Gold membership
Lifetime AAdvantage Gold status
One-year AAdvantage Platinum membership
American Airlines airplane simulator session for two with licensed flight instructor, followed by a tour of the American Airlines Flight Academy and System Operations Control (SOC).
Suite for 12 at a professional sporting event at the American Airlines Arena in Miami or the American Airlines Center in Dallas.
Replica of Ryan Bingham's 10 Million Mile Card, as seen in the film.
Additionally, American is complementing the auction with the "Find Yourself Up in the Air" Sweepstakes, which will offer an extraordinary Grand Prize including:

First Class air travel for two to Los Angeles
Three-night luxury hotel stay
Four-day luxury car rental
Paramount Studios VIP tour for two
Premium luggage set
Exclusive VIP dining experience

You can register for the sweepstakes at www.aa.com/upintheair. Registrants will receive one entry per e-mail address and can earn a second entry by referring friends to the sweepstakes. The maximum number of entries allowed per person, per e-mail, is two.
"American's involvement with this stellar film showcases our commitment to providing travelers with the services they need on the road and rewarding them for their loyalty," said Rob Friedman, President - AAdvantage Marketing Programs at American Airlines. "We think our customers will enjoy seeing some of American's familiar products and services featured in the upcoming film, and we hope they'll also enjoy the online auction and sweepstakes where they can win unique experiences that can only be offered by American."
For complete auction and sweepstakes rules, as well as other details, visit www.aa.com/upintheair. For more information on Miles for Kids in Need please visit www.aa.com/kids.
AirGuide and AirGuideBusiness
ISSN 1544-3760 - Copyright © 2009 AirGuide / Pyramid Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved.

Travelocity Data Shows Vancouver Hotel Rates Cheapest in January 2010

2009-11-04T13:07:00.001-05:00

With 100 days until the torch is lit, the countdown to Vancouver is officially on and all eyes are on the Canadian city as it prepares to take the world’s stage. With hotel rooms and tickets scarce for the big event that kicks off on February 12, Travelocity recommends visiting Vancouver before the crowds arrive and the prices go up.
Travelocity data found average hotel rates in the Vancouver area are a minimum of USD100 less per night in January as compared to February through late March. Travelers can expect to spend an average of USD178 per night as compared with USD279 and up for the rest of the winter season. For a typical five-night stay, travelers will save an average of USD500 just on the hotel stay alone by visiting Vancouver in early 2010.
“The world will be watching Vancouver put its best foot forward and the city is sure to gain popularity with travelers,” said Genevieve Shaw Brown, Travelocity’s senior editor. “Those of us without tickets should visit Vancouver before the torch is lit to take advantage of hotel availability, lower prices and the spirit that permeates the city.”
Early travelers can take advantage of the improvements the city and surrounding areas have made in preparation for the big event. Skiers, for example, won’t want to miss the Peak 2 Peak gondola linking the mountains of Whistler and Blackcomb. Visiting Vancouver in early 2010 has another advantage for travelers – bragging rights for having “been there, done that” once the rest of world tunes in to see this beautiful city showcased on television.
For air travelers, flying into Seattle (USD350 RT on average; 150 miles from Vancouver) or Portland (USD282 RT on average, 300 miles from Vancouver) may be a more economical choice than flying to Vancouver, where January round-trip airfare is over USD600 on average. Amtrak offers service from both cities and a 25 percent discount on all tickets purchased before Dec. 31, 2009 for travel through January 2010. Train passengers and drivers must have a valid U.S. passport or other accepted form of identification for land travel across the U.S. / Canada border.
AirGuide and AirGuideBusiness
ISSN 1544-3760 - Copyright © 2009 AirGuide / Pyramid Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved.

Naples Beach Hotel & Golf Club

2009-11-03T10:21:00.003-05:00

The Naples Beach Hotel & Golf Club in Southwest Florida is featuring the “Sun Kissed Body Escape Package,” which includes a soothing Tropical Marine Body Polish, a relaxing Florida Fruit Fresh Facial, and an application of an all-natural self-tanning lotion. When coupled with the resort’s special “Value Rates,” the package includes accommodations in a newly-remodeled room, two reserved beach chairs, unlimited tennis, access to the complete Fitness Center (with use of the exercise room, whirlpool, sauna and steam room), valet parking, and afternoon tea and cookies at 4 p.m. daily. Based on double occupancy, the rate through Dec. 20, 2009, is from $359 per room per night for one spa goer/one non-spa goer, or from $559 per room, per night for two spa goers in the room. From Dec. 21, 2009 through April 11, 2010, the rate is from $489 per room, per night for one spa goer/one non-spa goer, or from $689 per room, per night for two spa goers in the room.
Another available spa package is the “A Touch of Relief Package,” which includes a European deep-cleansing Aroma-Therapeutic Facial, and a re-energizing Therapeutic Massage. When combined with the resort’s “Value Rates,” the package also includes accommodations in a newly-remodeled room, two reserved beach chairs, unlimited tennis, access to the Fitness Center (with use of the exercise room, whirlpool, sauna and steam room), valet parking, and afternoon tea and cookies at 4 p.m. daily. Based on double occupancy, the rate for the “A Touch of Relief Package” through Dec. 20, 2009, is from $374 per room, per night for one spa goer/one non-spa goer, or from $589 per room, per night for two spa goers in the room. From Dec. 21, 2009 through April 11, 2010, the rate is from $504 per room, per night for one spa goer/one non-spa goer, or from $719 per room, per night for two spa goers in the room. For reservations or for more information, call 800-237-7600 or 239-261-2222, or visit www.NaplesBeachHotel.com AirGuide and AirGuideBusiness
ISSN 1544-3760 - Copyright © 2009 AirGuide / Pyramid Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved.

Turks & Caicos' Sands at Grace Bay Unveils Family Package

2009-11-03T10:21:00.001-05:00

The Sands at Grace Bay is now offering a week-long Sand Castle Package where parents can have quality time with their children and with their spouses. This family vacation option has more than 20 percent off in savings, includes signature touches for both parents and children, and aims to promote quality family and spouse time in an unforgettable oceanfront setting. Families will be welcomed to The Sands at Grace Bay with a signature fruit punch made for young palates as well as an expertly mixed rum punch for the parent. Guests will then be escorted to spacious suite accommodations fitting to any family size -- with one-, two- or three-bedroom options. Suites come complete with big-screen plasma TVs and overstuffed couches for comfortable cartoon-watching, full kitchens for home-cooked meals and plush bedding for extra bounce.
The Sands at Grace Bay offers an ample menu of watersports, everything from kayaks and windsurfing equipment to snorkel gear and Hobie Cats, as well as three free-form pools for all manner of underwater activities. Young guests will also receive a Sand Castle Kit containing all the necessary sand castle-building tools topped off with a Sand Castle Engineer hardhat. The resort’s babysitting service assists children in winding down for the night, giving parents the chance to start their own private vacation. Parents can sneak away for a couple’s spa treatment in the solitude of a Spa Tropique treatment room. The couple can end the night right at Hemingway's where the staff is prepared to serve up the best of traditional island cuisine in a romantic, sandy-table setting for the ultimate romantic experience.
The complete Sand Castle Package includes suite accommodations for seven nights, a Sand Castle Kit, a themed “Finger-Food-Fun” lunch for four, babysitting service for one night, a Couple’s Spa Treatment and a private dinner for two at Hemingway’s. Rates start from $4,250, for a two-bedroom garden-view suite. This package is available for new bookings made for travel to the resort between Jan. 3 and April 9.
The Sands at Grace Bay is a 112-room resort located on six oceanfront acres on Grace Bay Beach. The family-friendly property offers accommodations in studios and one-, two- and three-bedroom suites ranging from 1,000 to 1,600 square feet. Each is decorated in Caribbean style, with muted blues and greens and wicker furnishings. Most suites also come with fully equipped kitchens appointed with stainless appliances, granite countertops, coffee makers and more. (Studios are equipped with kitchenettes.) Accommodations are distributed throughout six three-story buildings situated amid a lush garden courtyard caressed by three free-form swimming pools. For more information, call 877-777-2637 or visit www.thesandstc.com.
AirGuide and AirGuideBusiness
ISSN 1544-3760 - Copyright © 2009 AirGuide / Pyramid Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved.

Breezes Grand Resort & Spa Negril Celebrates Repeat Guests With Exclusive Savings

2009-11-02T10:20:00.001-05:00

When Daylight Savings Time ended on November 1st, the all-suite, super-inclusive Grand Lido Negril Resort & Spa in Negril Jamaica sprung forward in its new incarnation as Breezes Grand Resort & Spa Negril. To thank loyal repeat guests of Grand Lido Negril Resort & Spa and introduce them to the newly branded property, the inclusive resort is gearing up for its first "Repeaters Week," scheduled for December 1-7. Double occupancy rates at the Jamaica resort will start at $249 per person, per night, with an additional night free on rooms booked for a minimum three or five nights in any room category. Guests in one-bedroom, luxury and presidential suites will enjoy savings of up to $137 per person at the a-la-carte Blue Mahoe Spa. The weeklong event will add even more value with private events such as a repeaters-only sailing excursion.
Travelers return to Breezes Grand Resort & Spa Negril because of its competitive rates, well-appointed accommodations, exciting land and water sports and amenities. To celebrate and honor these guests, the "Repeaters Week" will roll out the "Home Sweet Home" spa special, with a 30 percent discount on a trio of 50-minute treatments, plus a buy-two-get-one-free option. A triple spa pampering might start with a revitalizing "Cucumber Refresher Facial," followed by the resort's signature "Nature's Path Swedish Aromatherapy Massage" and finishing with the "Natural Mystic Reflexology" that uses acupressure on the meridian points of the hands and feet.
Repeat guests will also enjoy an exclusive complimentary, three-hour voyage along the tranquil coast of Negril with a snorkeling sojourn at the Sands Club Reef, which teems with exotic marine life. Further west, the popular Pirates Cave affords anchorage for an exhilarating cliffside swim or a curious trip inside the caves. Those who prefer to stay dry aboard the 60-ft sailing catamaran can whet their palates with a selection of Jamaica-inspired beverages and snacks, while grooving to pulsing Reggae beats in the background.
Additional private events during the "Repeaters Week" will include a cocktail party with live Jazz, luncheon on the clothing optional beach, and a gala dinner prepared by the resort's award-winning culinary team.
To book your "Repeaters Week" or to learn more about Breezes resorts, visit www.Breezes.com, call 1-800-GO-SUPER (467-8737), or contact a local travel agent.
AirGuide and AirGuideBusiness
ISSN 1544-3760 - Copyright © 2009 AirGuide / Pyramid Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved.

Marriott Caribbean, Mexico, Costa Rica Resorts Offer Winter Rates

2009-10-30T13:45:00.001-04:00

Available exclusively for bookings made during the month of November, Marriott and Renaissance Caribbean, Mexico & Costa Rica Resorts are offering 40 percent off leisure rates for travel from Jan. 1 to April 30, 2010. The discount applies to room rate only and can be booked between Nov. 1, 2009, and Nov. 30, 2009. The offer is not valid for groups of 10 rooms or more. A limited number of rooms are available and black-out dates or other restrictions may apply. Promotion cannot be combined with any other offer, sales promotion or prior purchase/reservation. Participating locations include the St. Kitts Marriott, Frenchman’s Reef Marriott, Grand Cayman Marriott, Aruba Renaissance, Aruba Marriott, Curacao Marriott, Curacao Renaissance, San Juan Marriott, JW Marriott Cancun, Casa Magna Cancun Marriott, Puerto Vallarta Casa Magna Marriott, and Los Suenos Marriott. Reservations must be made directly through www.Marriott.com or by calling 888-727-2347 and requesting promotional code LRW.
AirGuide and AirGuideBusiness
ISSN 1544-3760 - Copyright © 2009 AirGuide / Pyramid Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved.

Colorado Ski Season Starts with Late October Snowstorm

2009-10-30T13:41:00.000-04:00

A winter snow storm has hit Colorado, dumping several feet of fresh powder on the Rockies and skiers and boarders couldn't be more excited. In addition to being the world's premier ski/snowboard destination with 26 unique ski areas and resorts offering more than 2,000 trails and 40,000 acres of mountain terrain, Colorado also provides visitors with a variety of off-the-slopes winter activities including dog sledding, snow-shoeing and ice climbing. It’s also offering a multitude of specials. Families flying into Eagle Airport (EGE) between Dec. 1 and 17, 2009, on American, will receive one free child ticket available for every adult fare purchased, with no black-out dates. For more information, visit www.FlyVail.com.
This winter season, when traveling to the Gunnison-Crested Butte Regional Airport (GUC) on United, Delta and American, take advantage of the Friends and Family Fly Free program. Between Dec. 17, 2009, and April 4, 2010, buy two airline tickets and get the third free when staying in Crested Butte Mountain Resort's lodging properties for at least four nights. For more information or to make a reservation, visit www.skicb.com. At Copper Mountain, stay for at least two nights and the third night is free. This deal includes the Beeline Advantage Lift Ticket offering guests their own dedicated lift line, in addition to kids under 12 skiing/riding free with the purchase of every adult ticket. Book this package by Oct. 31, 2009, and get up to $25 per reservation ($100 maximum) to spend at Copper. For more information, visit www.coppercolorado.com. Book now at Aspen’s Hotel Jerome, A RockResort, for this upcoming winter season and receive your fourth night free. The offer is available Nov. 26, 2009, through April 4, 2010, and must be booked by Nov. 25, 2009. For more information, visit www.rockresorts.com or call 877-412-ROCK (7625). For more information on other specials, visit www.colorado.com.
AirGuide and AirGuideBusiness
ISSN 1544-3760 - Copyright © 2009 AirGuide / Pyramid Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved.

Asia-Pacific Hotels on Sale

2009-10-29T09:51:00.001-04:00

If you’re traveling to the Asia-Pacific region over the next few months and you haven’t booked a hotel room yet, now may be the time to do it.
Accorhotels.com, which includes hotel brands like Ibis and Sofitel, is offering one million hotel rooms at discounted rates in more than 15 Asia-Pacific countries. Depending on the city, rooms may be available for as little as $36 a night
Book early, since the number of discounted rooms varies by hotel. Also, keep an eye on a world clock. The sale, which is available for travel between Dec. 1 and April 30, ends Oct. 30 in each hotel’s local time.
AirGuide and AirGuideBusiness
ISSN 1544-3760 - Copyright © 2009 AirGuide / Pyramid Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved.

Aruba's Holiday Inn Commits to Gay and Lesbian Travelers

2009-10-28T10:32:00.003-04:00

Holiday Inn Resort Aruba recently strengthened its commitment to the gay and lesbian travel community by joining the International Gay and Lesbian Travel Association (IGLTA). Headquartered in Fort Lauderdale, IGLTA is the world’s leading travel trade association committed to growing and enhancing its members’ gay and lesbian tourism business through education, promotion and networking. “The Holiday Inn Resort Aruba has a 40-year history of providing fun and affordable vacation experiences for all types of travelers,” said Raul Villagran, director of sales & marketing for Holiday Inn Resorts Caribbean. “Our doors have always been and will always continue to be open to everyone. Membership in IGLTA further emphasizes this, while also creating top-of-mind awareness for us among gay and lesbian travelers.”
IGLTA is the world’s leading authority, resource and representative of gay and lesbian travel. Its membership is located in 55 countries around the world and consists of accommodations, airlines, tour operators, travel agents, tourism offices, media and other key players in the tourism industry. IGLTA works to help the tourism industry attract gay and lesbian consumers and learn more about the gay and lesbian market. Since its founding in 1983, IGLTA has expanded its international influence from just 25 members to over 2,000. For more information, visit www.iglta.org.
AirGuide and AirGuideBusiness
ISSN 1544-3760 - Copyright © 2009 AirGuide / Pyramid Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved.

Hilton Arc de Triomphe to Feature Snow Bar

2009-10-28T10:32:00.001-04:00

From Dec. 9 through Christmas Day, Hilton Arc de Triomphe Paris will transform its Andalusian Patio into an outdoor snow bar. The 8,600-square-foot space, one of the largest open-air hotel gardens in Paris, will feature snow-covered Christmas trees and a chalet bar. Cocktail waitresses dressed in fashion forward Santa outfits will serve canapés and a variety of drinks at holiday happy hours. With the Festive Package, guests can also enjoy additional seasonal indulgence at the deluxe Art Deco hotel, including complimentary access to Spa Mosaic. Nightly rates for the package start at 295 euros ($443). For more information, visit www.hilton.com.
AirGuide and AirGuideBusiness
ISSN 1544-3760 - Copyright © 2009 AirGuide / Pyramid Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved.

InterContinenral London Westminster Set to Open in 2011

2009-10-27T10:10:00.002-04:00

InterContinental Hotels Group signed a 20-year management contract with Splendid Hotel Group for a new 254-room, six-story InterContinental property in the center of London. The InterContinental London Westminster is set to open in late 2011. InterContinental London Westminster will occupy the former Queen Anne's Chambers, originally built in the 19th century. The 120,000-square-foot freehold site close to New Scotland Yard is currently office and retail space. The hotel will be the second InterContinental hotel in the capital. InterContinental London Park Lane was first opened in 1975, and reopened following extensive renovations in 2006 in celebration of the brand's 60th anniversary. Kirk Kinsell, IHG's president for Europe, Middle East and Africa, said, “Despite the tough economic times, the fact that we continue to sign major deals is testament to the strength of our brands. We're adding 5,000 rooms in the U.K. in the next two to three years. The InterContinental London Westminster will open in time for the Olympic Games in London in 2012." IHG has 158 InterContinental Hotels & Resorts in 60 countries across the world and 67 hotels in the pipeline. For more information, visit www.ihg.com.
AirGuide and AirGuideBusiness
ISSN 1544-3760 - Copyright © 2009 AirGuide / Pyramid Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved.

Breezes Resorts Offers Early Bird Savings by Nov. 18

2009-10-27T10:10:00.001-04:00

Breezes Resorts' "Early Bird Savings" is for winter travel to the Caribbean or Panama and must be booked by Nov. 18 and offers savings of up to $700 per couple on seven-night all inclusive vacations from Jan. 7 through Aug. 31. Now available at seven Breezes properties are per person, per night, rates for five-night minimum stays from $103 in Jamaica, $120 in Curaçao and the Bahamas, and $111 in Panama, based on double occupancy. Those who visit Breezes Caribbean resorts in 2010 will be among the first to experience the newly expanded brand. On Nov. 1, the Super-Inclusive resort group will rename the current Grand Lido Negril Resort & Spa and Grand Lido Braco Resort & Spa in Jamaica as Breezes Grand Resort & Spa Negril and Breezes Rio Bueno Resort & Spa, respectively.
The family-oriented Starfish Trelawny will become Breezes Resort & Spa Trelawny, with an enhanced Super-Inclusive package that will include the Kids Club and the games arcade. Breezes Panama opened on Oct. 1 as Breezes' first Panamanian property. "Early Bird Savings" are also available at old-timer Breezes Resorts: Breezes Runaway Bay Resort & Spa in Jamaica, Breezes Curaçao and Breezes Bahamas. To reap up to $700 savings per couple, a minimum five-night stay is required at all Breezes Resorts, except for Breezes Bahamas where a four-night minimum stay is required; blackout dates apply. For more information, call 800-GO-SUPER or visit www.Breezes.com.
AirGuide and AirGuideBusiness
ISSN 1544-3760 - Copyright © 2009 AirGuide / Pyramid Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved.

Sofitel Luxury Hotels Roll Out Chocolate Escape

2009-10-27T10:09:00.000-04:00

This holiday season, Sofitel Luxury Hotels invites chocolate-loving travelers to savor its exclusive I Love Chocolate package, available Nov. 1, 2009, to Jan. 31, 2010, at more than 85 participating hotels worldwide. Sofitel Luxury Hotel’s I Love Chocolate offer includes a three-night stay for the price of two at participating properties; complimentary breakfast served in the restaurant each morning; an “all-chocolate afternoon tea” including hot chocolate, pastries and other delicacies; and complimentary late check-out of 2 p.m. (based on availability). Sampling of starting rates for I Love Chocolate offer (consecutive three-night stay required): Sofitel Los Angeles, from $205 per night (third night free); Sofitel New York, from $250 per night (third night free); Sofitel Chicago Water Tower, from $150 (third night free); Sofitel Lafayette Square Washington, D.C., from $177 (third night free); Sofitel Arc de Triomphe (France), from $293 per night (third night free); Sofitel Buenos Aires (Argentina), from $265 per night (third night free); Sofitel Marrakech (Morocco), from $217 per night (third night free); and Sofitel Métropole Hanoi (Vietnam), from $160 per night (third night free). For more information and reservations, visit www.sofitel-ilovechocolate.com.
AirGuide and AirGuideBusiness
ISSN 1544-3760 - Copyright © 2009 AirGuide / Pyramid Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved.