Wednesday, November 25, 2009

Virtuoso and Virgin Galactic Name New ASA's

In case you were looking for that random, out -of-box holiday gift for the person on your list that has everything, you might want to check out Virgin Galactic's specials with Virtuoso. Virgin Galactic, in partnership with Virtuoso, named 18 new "Accredited Space Agents" (ASAs) that join 56 other Virtuoso travel advisers to become the sole team responsible for selling space travel with Virgin Galactic. The travel agents had to go through a rigorous application process and intensive training process. All the 120 worldwide agents will be invited to Mojave, California, for the unveiling of SpaceShip Two which is the first space vehicle of its kind developed to take private passengers to space. Its sure to be a great program and we are thrilled that our affiliate agency, Andavo Travel, has an agent on the list.

Airline Wrap Up for the Week

There's good news and bad news, so let's start with the positive. There are expected to be fewer travellers this holiday season, so hopefully that will cut down on the lines at the airports, taxi cabs, hotel check-ins, etc. Even better, the airlines are all offering last minute fares! For example, I just booked a ticket for a client looking to travel this weekend to Denver and returning home to LAX on Tuesday...just $199 where as a week ago the price was closer to $300.

On the plus side, United is giving its image a complete overhaul from planes to customer service areas to Red Carpet lounges. According to the Chicago Tribune, United will be giving each airplane in its fleet a total makeover...this is the first one of this decade. The "tequila sunrise" theme will be thrown out; as well as any reminiscences of the Ted carrier. The previous one-cabin aircraft's will now offer a roomier first class seating and the 80's and 90's style overhead bins, and coach class seating will also be updated. Airline executives hope the image re-haul will help buffer it from poor customer service ratings and bashings receive by The Onion and YouTube.

Now on the bad side, I hope that many of you flying can steer clear of the New York area's three airports and any of its limited air space. For the first nine months of 2009, all three NYC airports respectively placed 1, 2, and 3 in the industry's worst on time arrivals rating scale. This rating compared all 31 major US airport hubs. In 2007, three quarters of all delays were traced back to issues surrounding these 3 airports alone. Modifications have been made from opening up additional airspace, changing the take off time between airplanes; but even on busy days planes waiting to land at La Guardia alone are often in line for a 40 mile stretch. Maybe DOT can add this to its list of current industry issues.

For all those who are flying this Thanksgiving season, I hope the skies will be friendly to you.

Monday, November 23, 2009

United to Introduce New Linebuster Option

Untied Airlines will be introducing a new technology called "Linebuster" at the Chicago O'Hare International Airport over the Thanksgiving weekend. United agents will be stationed in the post security customer service areas with a handheld device that will tell them if passengers have been rebooked if their current flight has been missed or cancelled. These United agents will be able to assist and answer limited issues, but the aim is to reduce the lines in the customer service desks during the busiest airport holiday of the year. If a passenger has been rebooked, they are directed to utilize the self service kiosks to reprint their boarding passes and head to their new gate.

According to United, about 75-80% of its passengers are rebooked immediately upon a cancellation or missed flight, but only 3 out of 10 customers utilize the kiosks. It will be interesting to see how well this new option will fly since its being introduced over Thanksgiving. Not the holiday I would personally pick to introduce a new device but if it reduces United's lines anywhere I'll take it! Let us know your feedback if you come across it during your travels.

Thursday, November 19, 2009

American Express May Pull Frequent Flier Miles

American Express is notifying its customers of co-branded cards with airlines and hotels, that if you are late on your payment you will forfeit the miles you thought you might have earned during that billing cycle. In order to get your miles back, Amex will charge a $29 reinstatement fee, on top of the normal late payment fee and your interest rate on balances carried will increase to 27%. Apparently the move is to better align Amex's co-branded cards with other cards offered by Amex and other credit card companies. You might wonder if Amex is trying to dodge the new credit card rules that take affect in February.

FAA Glitch Causes Nationwide Delays

The FAA radar system experienced a "glitch" this morning that affected flights across the nation, with Atlanta Hartsfield being the hardest hit. Its the 2nd issue FAA's had in two months. While I would love to say how shocked and surprised I was to wake up to this delightful news this morning, I'm not. Glitches, shutdowns, whatever you'd like to call it tend to happen when you run a radar tracking system that's based off World War II era technology. Just last week the DOT and Obama administration met with airline and FAA officials. The FAA acknowledged they had been working on the new system, NextGen, for over a decade had spent roughly between $14-20 billion on it thus far. Airline officials made it very clear they would be requesting the government to pay the remaining $16-20 billion to outfit the planes and finish the system. It makes you wonder how friendly the skies really are these days?

Monday, November 16, 2009

Pro Bowl Packages Available

Since my beloved Georgia Bulldogs have somewhat faltered this year, I decided to turn my attention to the Denver Broncos. The first games were very impressive, if not lucky; and I was able to justify my new love of pro football because Moreno was on the team. Unfortunately, the Donkey's too seemed to have lost a bit of footing during the last few games. But that hasn't kept me from thinking of Pro Bowl and Super Bowl packages that might be available.

The 2010 Pro Bowl will be the first one to be played in the continental US in more than 30 years and the first one to be played before the Super Bowl.

The most recent Pro Bowl offering to hit my inbox starts off at a respectable $1025 per person. Included in the package are 3 nights accommodations, tickets to a VIP open practice on January 30th, tickets to a VIP Land Shark Stadium tour on the 30th, tickets to the NFL Pro Bowl Tailgate Party on the 31st, tickets to the game, and round trip coach transfers to the events and game.

And since it is only 22 degrees in Denver right now, the fact that the game will be played in Miami makes these offers all the more enticing!

Earn AA miles for hosting a meeting

As I listen to the large chucks of snow and ice falling off my roof, I feel quite certain that Sonesta Bay Hotel in Coconut Grove and American Airlines are on to a great and warm idea for 2010. Both companies have teamed up to offer 10,000 frequent flier miles for hosting a meeting at the property in 2010. In addition, the hotel is offering a complimentary welcome reception for up to 50 people. The offer is only valid if you book 50 rooms per night and the contract must be signed by December 31, 2009. As visions of palm trees dance in my head, I'm all ready for a warmer climate, how about you?

Sunday, November 15, 2009

Peter Greenberg & A Week in the Life

CNBC's special that took Peter Greenberg deep into "A Week in the Life" of American Airlines was airing today and it was very insightful. After being in the travel industry for over 15 years, I thought I had a good handle on one of the most important aspects of our business: the airlines. As I said in an earlier Southwest post "my job would often be easier if I didn't have to deal with the airlines," but this show gave me a slightly better perspective on the airlines and I have to say, I think we as travel agents have the better end of this deal.

Greenberg and his cameras were allowed exclusive access to everything that embodies an airline: the cockpit, the revenue management, the call center, the management center, pilots, maintenance crew, plane inspections, control tower. You name it, they were there. And kudos to Greenberg who even attempted to decipher the often bizarre world of fares and pricing. If you have time and are a travel industry buff like myself, then try to find when it is airing again in your location. In the meantime check out the website: http://www.cnbc.com/id/18576787

Thursday, November 12, 2009

Las Vegas and San Fran Report Visitor Increase

In hopefully what is a good economic sign and a turnaround for the travel industry, the Las Vegas CVA announced for the first time since May 2008 the city saw an increase in the number of visitors for September. San Francisco also announced an increase in hotel occupancy rates although the average cost per room is still lower than normal.

Southwest Debuts "Green" Plane

Everyone knows of my new found crush on Southwest Airlines, and if you haven't you are more likely to hear me complain of how much I hate the airline industry than profess my love for it. In fact my favorite saying is "I would love my job more if I didn't have to deal with the airlines."

Now I'm even more excited to know that Southwest is focusing on efforts to create a more eco-friendly industry. WN222 was recently taken out of service and completely retrofitted to save the airline an estimated 5lbs per seat. Just a few of the enhancements include: InterfaceFlor carpet which is totally recyclable and the manufacturing process was carbon neutral, completely recyclable seat covers, life vest is lighter and smaller, foam fill by Garnier Purtec offers better comfort while being lighter in weight, wind screen bulkhead, and plastic aisle rub strips. All are lighter weight products which will make the plane more fuel efficient.

WN222 will fly in regular service and will be identified by a green nose cap and an announcement by the flight attendant once on board. It is truly a test aircraft and additional plane retrofits will be determined by this new fleet addition.

Additional eco-programs initiated by the airline include: noise reduction techniques, pursuing LEED certification in all new construction, a member of the Environmental Protection Agency's Green Power Leadership club, implemented a system-wide recycling and water conservation program.

Thank you Southwest!

Saturday, October 3, 2009

Off the Beaten Track

If you are ever in the South Carolina Lowcountry, especially the areas surrounding Charleston, reserve a night to check out Bowen's Island. It's an out of the way joint (and I mean that literally in the nicest way), where the seafood is unbelievable. The property is currently undergoing some renovations but its a true Lowcountry experience right out of one of Pat Conroy's books. They literally steam the oysters the old fashion way in burlap bags and then dump them on your table for you to shuck'em open. There is a hole in the middle of the table to drop the shells into and any fixin' you could possibly desire from saltine crackers to hot sauce is available for your pleasure. Although I must admit, a true Southerner will just slurp out the shell. And don't forget to the order the hush puppies!

Monday, September 28, 2009

Trump Opens New Waikiki Hotel

The Trump International Hotel Group is now taking reservations for its Waikiki Beach Walk property that is scheduled to open in November 2009. It is similar in the ultra-luxe theme that is seen throughout the Trump properties worldwide. Grand opening rates begin at $255.

Saveur Magazine Names Culinary Travel Advisory Board Members

Saveur Magazine, in a recent partnership with Virtuoso, announced its new Culinary Travel Advisory Board in the October edition that is on newsstands this week. Congratulations to our sister company, Savory Travel, who was selected with over 50 Virtuoso travel agents! All board members specialize in culinary journeys and will work with the magazine to develop trips, tours and adventures for those that are "foodies" at heart. There is also a large travel section devoted to culinary travel on their website. Check out the latest edition or online www.saveur.com!

Four Seasons Great Exuma Resort Sold

Sandals Resorts recently announced it had purchased the now-closed Four Seasons Great Exuma Resort at Emerald Bay in the Bahamas. The resort opened in 2003 but closed earlier this year. Sandals is planning a major pool area upgrade as well as adding in more dining venues. The new resort will have its grand opening on January 22, 2010.

Sunday, September 27, 2009

Airlines Add Fees for Holiday Travel

American and United both added a $10 surcharge for flights around Thanksgiving and New Year's Eve. American announced their new policy Wednesday and United matched it on Thursday. The fee is technically a fuel surcharge but obviously its a way to charge more for premium travel. The three days surrounding Thanksgiving and January 2nd and 3rd are the highest most travelled days of the year. Other major carriers may announce higher fees as well in the coming weeks. In better aviation news, Frontier reduced their change fee from $150 to $100 last week. However, the carrier did raise its first checked bag fee.

Wednesday, September 23, 2009

JW Marriott Meeting Matters Program

The JW Marriott group is offering up to $100 per stay per room for each attendee for a meeting block. The credit can be used for on-property amenities or as a credit to the master account. Participating resorts include those in Arizona, California, Texas, Nevada and Mexico.

Tuesday, September 22, 2009

Have you volunteamed yet?

This past year was definitely a time when companies struggled through the rough economy and drastically reduced budgets which scaled back their meetings, incentives programs and corporate group travel options. During this time, many of these companies turned towards low-cost teambuilding ideas that also give back to their communities. A new term called "volunteaming" has been coined in the meetings industry which combines volunteerism with teambuilding activities. Its a powerful, break out of the box idea that gives the participant an ownership feeling of "look what our team did together" and a "sense of contribution, giving back" will make the meeting one they will remember forever. Activities range from building bikes for needy children, cleaning up a park and painting a playground, to creating teams that are given a budget and go out to find a project to work on in the city and then report back to the group. Programs can be as short as two hours or stretch over the length of the meeting. Used as an incentive, a volunteer option can be built into budget or sales program or even allow the winner to choose how they want to demonstrate their corporate citizenship.

Monday, September 21, 2009

San Francisco's Airport is the first to offer carbon offsets

San Francisco's airport recently unveiled three new kiosks that sell carbon offsets to travelers that want to reduce their carbon footprint. They are called Climate Passports and offer a simple touchscreens to help determine the amount of carbon dioxide your trip will create and the availability to swipe your credit card to donate to organizations and projects in the SFO area that reduce greenhouse gases. There are several websites that offer carbon offsets as well as many meeting planners, suppliers and travel agencies. Its a just a small step travelers can make to help do their part.

Are you doing your part?

Have you ever been to an event and wonder what happens to all the untouched leftover banquet food? Normally it just gets thrown away with the rest of the trash from the festivities. Most meeting planners would agree that they hesitate to donate because they don't want the liability if someone was to get sick. But did you know that President Clinton signed a federal law in 1996 that protects food donors and limits their liability. Check out www.feedingamerica.org to find out more information because everyone can make a difference!

Monday, August 31, 2009

Sandals Fall Sale

I know the commercials seem hokey and the literature you get online or in the mail is full of lovey, dovey couples that can make even the most romantic want to puke. However, as cliche as it sounds, Sandals does have the market on the adult only all inclusive market. This company has been doing it longer and better than all the others and can provide destinations from the Bahamas and Jamaica to St. Lucia that will accommodate any budget or traveler.

Who wouldn't like an escape from kids without hearing the words "Mommmyyyy" from a crying child while you are trying to nap by the pool? It may not be your child, but nonetheless wouldn't you feel better not hearing at all? If you are like me the gnawing guilt begins as soon as I see or hear another child when I'm trying to vacation alone with my husband. Just this week my client pointed that out as she was trying to decide between a trip to Punta Cana and the Sandals St. Lucian Grande.

Sandals has even extended their fall sale, offering 50% off rates, stay several nights and get a few for free and up to a $250 spa credit. The St. Lucian Grande has rates as low as $2854 for a 7 night stay all inclusive for 2 adults and as much as $3854 for six nights for the Penthouse Concierge Suite. These were for trips planned in the Spring of 2010.

Monday, August 3, 2009

Bumped Passenger Compensation

Have you ever checked in for a flight and not been able to assign yourself a seat? Or realized when printing your boarding pass it was actually a confirmation pass that allowed you through security?

Many times its not a big deal as airlines reserve a portion of seats for airport control only. This is so it can accommodate families with children, passengers with disabilities, children flying alone, etc. Yours truly found out the hard way when travelling with my two sons last month. I made the mistake of grabbing the last two available seat assignments thinking we would get them moved around the airport. Well, we couldn't do it at the ticket counter (you know the airlines hate that face to face interaction with the passenger) and were sent out to the gate. I was the first one in line at the gate and waited patiently as the gate agent signed in. She was actually very nice considering it was summer and we were in Atlanta's airport, which is not really known for its Southern hospitality and charm. But she gave me some insight into the gate agent's job.

She said oh, I wish you hadn't of grabbed those seats because I would have known how many you needed together. Since I was the first in line, it didn't matter as she had plenty of seats to still assign. Apparently, all the passengers without seats are flagged in their system and each agent has their own pseudo priority system for assigning seats.

However, there is always that case where you can't get a seat because the flight is oversold and there are no seats to assign. It is a wonder that the airlines oversell their flights, but its no different than showing up for a hotel reservation and realizing the hotel is overbooked.

Airlines must first ask for volunteers. If that doesn't work and you don't get on your plane, the airline is required to pay you the price of a one way ticket up to a limit of $400. This is if you reach your destination within one to two hours of your original ticketed arrival time. If it takes longer, then the limit can go as high as $800. The airlines will also try to put you on another flight. Make sure you are given a confirmed ticket with seat assignment!

Most importantly know your rights, if you are bumped due to mechanical, crew no show, anything at all related to the airline - it is up to that carrier to make it right. Weather unfortunately, does not count. There is also no requirements that the airlines provide you with food or hotel reservations if you are delayed by more than a day. But if you negotiate, it always better to do so with a polite smile and not make scene. Trust me the gate agent will be much more willing to help you.

You can also always ask for a refund. I sat on the phone for an hour and half last Friday as I was passed between Northwest, Delta, Northwest and back to Delta again trying to negotiate a refund for passenger. His flight was cancelled and Delta had put him on a flight the next day. He was a business traveller and had to be home that night. While I was on the phone with Delta, we purchased him a ticket on Southwest. Delta ultimately agreed to issue a refund but its not always easy to get money back from the airline.

Southwest Announces Bid for Frontier Airlines

Southwest announced last week they had entered a bid to purchase Frontier Airlines. The bid potentially worth at least $113.6 million would be over the $108 million bid Republic Airlines had offered the suffering carrier. Frontier Airlines, known for years for their beloved animals on the tails of the aircraft, has been in bankruptcy court for the past year. Southwest said if successful, they would keep both names for several years before merging the two companies. The move would also make Southwest the second largest carrier in terms of passenger amounts in Denver. Questions remain if Southwest could keep their point to point flight system and low fares if such a deal is finalized.

Thursday, July 23, 2009

Ritz Carlton's New "Meetings Within Reach" Promotion

Ritz Carlton just announced a new "Meetings Within Reach" promotion available at most of their properties. Ten or more room nights must be blocked and the benefits include daily continental breakfast, a general session meeting room, high speed Internet access in one meeting room, up to a 20% discount on AV and select suite upgrades. To qualify for the promotion, meetings must be booked by September 30th for events scheduled through December 31.

If you have a meeting scheduled at the Ritz, it would be worth a call to see if any of the inclusions could be added to your contract. Never hurts to ask!

Greenbrier to add a Casino

M&C just reported that the prestigious Greenbrier resort in West Virginia is announcing plans to build a $25 million underground casino on the property that will open in 2010. The property's new 3880 lounge that is opening in September will offer temporary game for the gambling crowds with limited slots and table games.

It will definitely be compelling to follow this new addition at the grande dame of all hotels. I'm both a little surprised and shocked, considering the historical significance of the property combined with a casino. It seems a bit odd to me, but I guess anything goes in a recession. I can't wait to see the feedback from guests, travel agents and meeting planners.

Fountainbleu Las Vegas Cancels Meetings

The famed Foutainbleu chain seems to be suffering a bit in Las Vegas. They have been in bankruptcy even before opening but professed to many meeting planners during the Incentive Travel Exchange that things would be normal soon. Apparently, not so much. Just yesterday, Travel Weekly posted an article stating that Foutainbleu has ceased construction activities and requested to cancel conventions and meetings that were booked through June 2010. In addition, current employment contracts were also requested to be cancelled. Spokesperson for the property said it fully plans to be opening by 2010 just the timing will depend on renewal of financing options.

It is a beautiful property and a great addition to the resorts along the strip. Hopefully things will work for them as it did for MGM's City Center.

Thursday, June 4, 2009

Have you tripped lately?

The title is a bit misleading, but if you haven't taken a trip - you should. I know the recession is affecting everyone but the deals are pretty amazing. A trip for 2 with airfare and lodging for 3 nights to Las Vegas can be found for as little as $620 total. If you need a little pick me up for a little less cash it can certainly be found!

Tuesday, February 24, 2009

Dining in the Sky Las Vegas Style


Dinner in the Sky is a new venue that offers guests the opportunity to literally dine in the sky above Las Vegas. No, its not the newest theme park thrill ride to be introduced in Vegas, but a concept to give small groups or individual guests a very different take on dining out. Each meal consists of a 22 person Sky Table while suspending the guest over 160 feet in the air. Reservations are requested and prices begin at $249 a person that includes a reception, photography, access to the Sky Lounge and packages are available Thursday through Sunday. For transfers between your hotel and Dinner in the Sky add an extra $20.00 per person to the price.

Monday, February 23, 2009

A Grounded 747

So if sitting on the runway delayed for hours isn't your idea of a good time, now you can actually pay to have a good time sitting on the runway. A jumbo 747 has been permanently cleared for landing as the world's first airplane hostel. The hostel will be conveniently located on the tarmac at Stockholm's Arlanda Airport and it was originally built in 1976. It is now a 25 room boutique hotel er hostel, with major upgrades in the decor and bathroom areas. Most of the coach class area is devoted to three bed shared rooms, an in-plane cafe and even a balcony area over the jetliner wing. If you really want to shell out the big bucks, try booking the cockpit suite that comes with access to the first class lounge and some well deserved privacy. While my backpacking-through-Europe- days are over, it could be that spending the night in a Jumbo 747 hostel could you earn you some bragging rights or at least give way to interesting conversation at your next dinner party.

Vegas Uncork'd

Vegas Uncork'd is Las Vegas' premiere culinary event sponsored by bon appetit, MGM Grand, Mandalay Bay, Southern Wine and Spirits, Wynn, Bellagio and others. It showcases delightful cooking experiences, wine tastings, grand culinary tastings, dinners, and much more. Famous chefs that will dot the event with exclusive appearances include Chef Michael Mina, Chef Daniel Boulud, Chef Todd English and Chef Bobby Flay. Tickets are on sale now. Check out www.vegasuncorked.com

Four Seasons Aviara

One of my personal favorites, the Four Seasons Aviara in Northern San Diego is offering a great Spring Break Getaway. You will receive a $100 resort credit and for every 2 nights paid you will receive the third night free! If you stay 6 nights, you get 2 nights free. All reservations must be booked through a travel professional, but with average temps in the 70s year round and airfare from Denver just $179 - why shouldn't you go!

Surf and Yoga Program in Costa Rica

Pura Vida Adventures offers a great surf and yoga program at Hotel Tropico Latino in Malpais Costa Rica. In addition to the daily yoga and surf classes taught to each attendees ability level, guests will also receive a 1 hour massage at the Spa Natural. The rate is a bit steep for this economy, but its $2095 for a 6 night package including daily surf instruction, yoga classes, beachfront villa or bungalow accommodations, a one hour beachfront massage, a salsa night and other cultural activities. Airfare is additional. Check out www.puravidaadventures.com

Brisas Mexico Package

Brisas Resorts is offering a great deal with up to 15% off with the purchase of its Mexico Holiday Breeze package. It includes free breakfast, a $100 to $200 Food and Beverage Credit, a room category upgrade, 4th night free and is valid for stays between Jan 4th and April 2nd, 2009.

Culinary Connections Amazing Gourmet Tour

I had the unique privillege of sitting in on one of Culinary Connectors amazing Gourmet Tour's this weeked. As someone who lives in the suburbs, I constantly complain about how much I love the city but with kids in tow never find the time to go. Denver is a thriving, fun, young town with so many new restuarants and shops even if I could hit the Highlands, or LoDo or 16th Street Mall everyday there is no way to see it all.

Thanks to Culinary Connectors, it gave me a great view of 6 terrific boutique shops that I may have never found on my own. We started at Savory Spice (thank goodness there is one close to me in Littleton) and tasted true Cinnamon, a Chardonnay smoked salt and a white and black peppercorn. Their dried corn is a delicious snack!

Then we moved to the House of Common Tea Shop where owner Jessica delighted the group with four tastings and an in depth knowledge of tea time in England and the tea leaves themselves.

Chef William at Wen Chocolates took eating chocolate to a new culinary level and I highly recommend the Molotov Pineapple truffle - yum!

From there we were chauffeured down 6th to The Truffle Shop where owner and master Chef Rob told us that on any given week he has over 160 cheeses from around the world. Each Wednesday they pick up their newest delivers at DIA and he encourages everyone to try everything in his shop.

Next stop was the Red Trolley in the Highlands area. What a terrific culinary journey! The group learned the intrinsic details of making gelato and chef tricks to making your scones come out of the oven perfectly every time. Mondo Vino was our last stop in the Highlands Square area. The elegant yet hippy chic store encompasses a world of wine. The tasting bar was terrific and each wine was paired with a cheese and olive bread. I highly recommend the 1590 in the back corner because for $9 a bottle you can't beat it in this economy.


Check out http://www.culinaryconnectors.com/ and http://www.savorytravel.com/ for more information on tours in your area or how to join one of these!

Air Jamaica Announces Service Changes

In a sign of the current economic times, Air Jamaica announced that it will discontinue passenger service in 3 US gateway cities: Atlanta, Miami and Los Angeles. The company announced the changes are in line with its 2009 Business plan and it will keep its cargo service from these airports. Air Jamaica is a great company to work with and I've used them so many times for travel especially between Miami and Atlanta for passenger travel to Jamaica.

Monday, February 16, 2009

Taste, Enjoy and Experience

Culinary Connectors and Vibrant Travel Solutions have joined forces to create a private culinary experience just for foodies. The events, deftly name Travel Wine and Food, are weekend long and hit such amazing cities like Las Vegas, Scottsdale and South Beach. Each trip begins with a 2 hour private welcome reception with the areas best food and wine experts, luxury accommodations, round trip airfare, breakfast each morning, amazing hotel amenities, a 5 hour chef escorted culinary tour, 24 hour personal travel concierge service pre and post trip, Travel Director and host accompany every trip and all taxes and fees. Check out www.savorytravel.com for amazing prices beginning at $969 for air and land or $599 for land only pricing.

Monday, January 26, 2009

Sea Island Debuts with the Mobil 5 Star Award

Sea Island's the Cloister Hotel, its Spa and The Georgian Room Restaurant as well as its golf property The Lodge received Mobil's prestigious 5 Star Award this month. In a private letter to members, Bill Jones III announced the recognition by placing gratitude on the impeccable staff that is found throughout his resort. The Cloister Spa is the state's only Mobil Five Star spa and only one of eight recognized in the US and Canada by the organization. The Lodge has received the designation for nine straight years.

The Cloister is offering a special to celebrate the Five Star award by offering room rates beginning at $525 a night and a $500 resort credit for stays of 3 nights or longer between January and March 2009.

Four Seasons Miami

The Four Seasons Miami is offering an unbelievable deal now through April 30, 2009. If you stay 2 nights you get the 3rd night complimentary to lounge by the pool in a private cabana, walk the shops on Lincoln, relax in the world class Spa or enjoy the numerous dining venues like Wish that are located right outside your door.