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Travel Briefs

 

City Hopping with Low Cost Airlines and City Cards In Germany

In Europe, low cost airlines are taking off, so to speak, and Germany is no exception. It is trendy now to go city hopping on low cost airlines and it is a wonderful way to experience the diversity of Germany’s cities. Travelers are using German Wings and  Hapag-Lloyd Express as well as Deutsche BA, Germania, AirBerlin, Condor Airlines and  HapagFly.

To celebrate World Cup’s 12 host cities, Lufthansa, the national airline, is adding a new twist to its international flights with a GloBall Airpass. For as little as 60 Euros per flight, travelers can choose to purchase between 3 and 10 flight segments. The GloBall Airpass must be purchased in conjunction with an international/intercontinental ticket to Germany.

Of course, you can always use the superb German railway as that is a fast and efficient way of traveling around Germany.  Rail Europe has specials for the World Cup and often offers 2 for 1 deals at various times of the year and special rates for seniors.

Welcome Cards are usually the cheapest and simplest way of getting to know a city. You can choose the length of a card’s validity as well as the number of people using it. In addition to public transportation, many cities offer additional discounts for sightseeing tours, guided walks, and shopping. You can find them in all tourist information bureaus in town and city centers and train stations. Prices vary from 7,50 Euros for a single day to 38 Euros for a three day family card.

Here’s a sampling:

-- Leipzig: A special feature of the Leipzig card are discounts on tickets for selected performances at the Gewandhaus concert hall, the Leipzig Opera House, theater productions at Schauspielhaus Leipzig, cabaret performances and events at the Leipzig Bach Festival.  Website: www.leipzig.de  

-- Duesseldorf: With the Duesseldorf Welcome Card, you can get discounts for the opera or a visit to the Aquazoo as well as for a cruise on the Rhine River. You can also get substantial discounts on theater performances and musical events.  Website: www.duesseldorf-tourismus.de   

-- Hamburg: Hamburg offers the Hamburg Card that now comes with a Power Pass for under 30 year-olds. A new feature of the Power Pass is a copy of PRINZ (the German "time out”) for tips on the scene - clubs, bars, restaurants, cafés, and shopping. Website:

 www.hamburg-tourism.de  

-- Munich: With the Munich Welcome Card you get discounts on guided tours through the new Allianz Arena or on horse-drawn carriages rides through the old town of the city. Get to know different museums, palaces and the famous Olympiapark. Website:

 www.muenchen.de  

 

 

Come To Stowe Vermont For The Annual Garden Festival

Stowe Vermont is known as the Ski Capital of the East in winter, but in summer, it is transformed into a setting of verdant fields and crystal clear streams amid the majestic setting of the Green Mountains. For gardeners, it offers lush flower settings that beckon the weary urbanite. On the last weekend of June, the town presents its ode to gardening with its annual garden festival. This year the 14^th Annual Garden Festival will be held on June 23 to 25.

Special clinics and workshops cover a broad variety of topics including all things annuals, incorporating a pond in your landscaping, sculptures, container gardening, low maintenance perennials and more. Self-guided tours of numerous famed gardens throughout Stowe provide an inspirational glimpse at the results of painstaking efforts and years of skill. Trolley Garden Tours will take guests through the village to highlight a variety of private and public gardens.

The festival has an exciting and informative array of workshops, fairs, tours, and presentations by well known gardening experts. And, it is an opportunity for people of all ages to take a moment and smell the flowers.

Not only will visitors enjoy the flowers and gardening lectures, but it is an opportunity to unwind at one of the town’s many resorts and hotels. Families will find lots to do and have an opportunity to enjoy the many facilities in this four-season resort destination.

Details on the festival are at www.stowegardenfestival.com. For information on lodging and other things to do while in Stowe, visit www.gostowe.com.

 

Paris-Essentials Was Created for People Who Love Paris!

With 100 million tourists traveling to Paris every year and upcoming movies such as The Da Vinci Code (opening May 19) and Marie Antoinette (Fall 2006) boosting the city of lights' allure, there's no wonder it's the most visited city in the world. If you've been, you know why; if not, you need to find out. To help you plan your trip, Violaine Galland has designed a web site for the traveler to Paris. You can book one of her seven studios located in the Latin Quarter or Marais, or click on partner sites listing thousands of accommodation choices. She makes it a snap to pre-order airport shuttle, museums pass, international phone cards and tickets for a boat ride on River Seine.

 As a Parisian-New Yorker, Ms. Galland has hand-picked the most up to date and user-friendly guidebooks, such as Michelin Paris 2006 or Paris Eyewitness Travel Guide and more eclectic titles such as Where to Wear (Paris 2006), the indispensable shopping guide. More information at http://www.paris-essentials.com .

 

SmarterTravel.com Introduces Travel Guides for Destinations Across the Globe

SmarterTravel.com, a comprehensive online travel resource, has introduced their new Travel Guides, a virtual travel planning guidebook that provides extensive information on a variety of destinations throughout the world to help travelers with their trip planning process. The new guides offer information on cities and countries all over the globe, including North America, Europe, the Caribbean, Asia and South America. Each guide includes five sections: When to Go covers seasonality and events that can affect travel plans; Getting To offers unbiased advice on finding the best airfare; Hotels covers local hotel listings; Getting Around provides transportation and car rental information; and Things to Do offers details on worthwhile activities. Travelers now have all the details they need for trip planning, no matter their destination, in one place.

The Travel Guides also include an easy-to-use destination finder search feature, which allows travelers to quickly access information on specific destinations. In support of the site's dedication to offering the most comprehensive travel information, SmarterTravel also recently launched a Destination Watch blog to offer the most up-to-date trends and advice on destinations across the globe.

The guides offer advice on navigating the destination, popular cities to visit and unbiased information on hotel, airfare and car rental deals that guidebooks don't regularly offer. These guides are being updated regularly with new content on countries and cities, and users can find advice and details to help in their travel decisions.

The "Destination Watch" blog joins SmarterTravel's other blogs, "Ship to Shore" and "Today and Travel," to offer up-to-date advice and data on destinations all around the world as it happens. The new blog is written by SmarterTravel contributing editor Christine Sarkis, who will post news and information to the blog as it happens.

SmarterTravel's Travel Guides are available at http://www.smartertravel.com/destinations. The Destination Watch blog can be viewed at: http://www.smartertravel.com/blogs/destination-watch.

 

Multi-generational, Extended, Adventure Family Travel Among New Trends

Family travel is on the rise this summer, according to almost four out of five (79 percent) American Express Travel agents polled nationwide, who identified it as one of this year’s most significantly increasing travel trends. This summer, family vacations are expanding beyond the traditional getaways to include newer, broader, more active and meaningful travel plans, say agents. They say that top motivators for family travel include the desire to introduce children to different cultures, customs and lifestyles, to experience new things together and create lasting memories.

Results from the American Express Travel poll of 279 of their agents found that family travel today means more than the typical nuclear family trip of the past. Eighty-one percent of agents are booking family vacations consisting of multi-generational trips that include grandparents. Additionally, more than two-thirds (69%) of agents are seeing grandparents traveling exclusively with their grandchildren—independent of Mom and Dad. Other trends spotted by agents include adult children traveling with their parents (69%); family and family friends traveling together as one large group (67%); “blended” families, consisting of divorced/remarried parents with their new spouses and children, traveling together (31%); and extended family members including aunts, uncles and cousins taking trips as a collective group (28%).

American Express Travel agents say that families are increasingly drawn to active and experience-driven travel plans. In fact, poll results showed that agents are booking more outdoor, adventure family vacations (62%), along with more international family vacations (57%). Almost half (49%) of travel agents polled recognized cruising as a growing trend in family travel. Families are also taking trips to celebrate the family itself with family reunions on the rise, according to the 41% of agents who said they had been asked to plan such a trip this year. One agent in particular recently planned a family reunion on a cruise for 75 family members.

Another key trend is a rise in family members pairing up to travel. Almost two-thirds (64%) of agents are seeing a rise in mother-daughter getaways; and 36% of agents noted an increase in father-son travel. Almost two-thirds of agents said that spa getaways make up most mother-daughter vacations; while fathers and sons most often choose active vacations, such as hunting, biking, hiking or fishing.

According to travel agents polled, many of the long-standing, family- friendly U.S. and international destinations continue to hold strong for families this summer. Within the U.S., Orlando ranked first, above New York City and Miami, which claimed the second and third spots, respectively. Las Vegas and Hawaii rounded out the top five domestic travel destinations for families. When agents were asked to name the most popular international destinations for families, London, Rome and Paris, took the top three spots. Other popular international destinations for families included Cancun, Mexico, Nassau in the Bahamas, and San Jose, Costa Rica.

 

New Survey Finds US Tourists Feeling Hurricane Jitters

For the first time in recent memory, Americans picked California over Florida as their favorite place to vacation this year—a switch blamed on the Sunshine State’s hurricane woes. Florida dropped eight points in travel research firm YPB&R’s annual survey of potential travelers, a steep enough drop to leave California in the No. 1 spot for the first time in at least eight years, said Chairman Peter Yesawich. He said the drop is almost exclusively because of “lingering perceptions about weather problems.”

The National Leisure Travel Monitor survey captures the anxiety in Florida’s $62 billion tourism industry as the 2006 hurricane season approaches. But it also shows the complexities involved in gauging the public mood when it comes to fun, sun and natural disasters. When polled about specific destinations, the same 1,700 respondents gave Florida locales higher marks than last year. Miami saw its ranking grow 7 points, one of the largest gains in the survey.

Hurricanes have not appeared to dent Broward and Miami-Dade’s high tourism seasons, with hotels charging record rates and occupancy levels topping 80 percent. This week Miami-Dade announced countywide hotel tax collections rose 12 percent in March over last year. But in the Florida Keys, where vacationers were caught up in six hurricane evacuations in the last two years, the 2006 tourism season has been a disappointment. While hotel rates are up, occupancy and per-room revenue dipped four percent over last year through March. More troubling, hotel taxes fell 6 percent.

 

 

 

 

 

Air News & Offers

 

JetBlue Launches New Service To Bermuda

JetBlue CEO David Neeleman (left) and Ewart F. Brown, JP, MP, Minister of Tourism and Transport at the ribbon cutting during the welcome ceremony held at Bermuda International Airport

 

JetBlue’s inaugural flight destined for the pink-sand beaches of Bermuda took off from John F. Kennedy Airport with a water cannon salute and rave reviews on May 4.  Native Bermudians and New Yorkers alike felt the love early Thursday morning with live music, pink and blue smoothies and a special performance by the New York Knicks’ dancers to kick off JetBlue’s new, twice-daily service to Bermuda from JFK. Less than two hours later in Bermuda, one hundred media and eager island-goers flight crowded into Bermuda’s International Airport for the welcoming ceremony where JetBlue CEO David Neeleman and Bermuda Tourism Minster Ewart F. Brown cut the ribbon.

The first weekend of this new air service to Bermuda exceeded JetBlue’s expectations.  Bookings continue to rise and indicate a busy summer ahead for the new non-stop flight.

JetBlue’s twice daily service leaves John F. Kennedy Airport at 8:00 a.m. and 1:40 p.m.  Fares start at $129* each way and offer convenient connections from Burlington, Vermont; Boston, Massachusetts; Richmond, Virginia; and Syracuse, Rochester, and Buffalo, New York, and Portland, Maine.

Bermuda, just under two hours from East Coast gateway cities, stretches for 23 miles along turquoise waters, surrounded by a 200-square-mile coral reef plateau. Bermuda's diverse activities offer an array of vacation options, including more wreck dives than anywhere else in the world, championship golf, horseback riding, world-renowned deep sea fishing and smooth pink beaches to rest on by day's end. Accommodations range from luxury resorts to intimate guest cottages and family-run inns, all incorporating the sophistication and hospitality unique to the Bermuda experience. For more information, visit www.jetblue.com, or the Bermuda tourism website at www.bermudatourism.com.

*Fares require up to a 7-day advance purchase and are subject to change without notice. All fares must be purchased at time of reservation, and are one-way, nonrefundable, and nontransferable. Cancellations and changes can be made prior to scheduled departure for $30 at 1-800-884-9616 (or, in the case of changes, at jetblue.com). All changes are subject to applicable fare adjustment. Cancellations are for a JetBlue travel credit only, which is valid for one year.

 

AirTran Airways Announces Seasonal Service between Atlanta and Seattle

AirTran Airways, a subsidiary of AirTran Holdings, Inc. launched new nonstop service to Seattle-Tacoma International Airport from Atlanta. The daily seasonal service will run through September 5, 2006, and will be served by the airline's popular Boeing 737 aircraft. Beginning today, AirTran Airways will offer two daily flights between Atlanta and Seattle and add a third daily flight in August.

 

Ryanair Signs Deal With Morocco To Open 20 Routes

Ryanair has sealed a deal with the Moroccan government to open 20 routes to the country carrying one million passengers a year in five years time. The agreement with the no-frills UK carrier follows six months of negotiations and is designed to open up the North African country to more tourism. Under the deal, Ryanair will gain access to most regional airports in Morocco and in return has committed to opening up to 20 routes delivering one million passengers a year by the end of the five year period.

The airline has already announced services from Frankfurt and Marseille and will make many more route announcements, according to deputy chief executive Michael Crawley.

"Ryanair's commitment to establish up to 20 routes and carry close to one million passengers per annum on flights to Morocco is a vote of confidence by the airline in the excellence and attractiveness of Morocco as a destination both for weekend breaks, mid-week trips and longer holidays."

 

New US Airline to Fly from New York to Russia

A new U.S. airline, Baltia Air Lines, based at the JFK Airport in New York at Terminal 4, is getting ready to start nonstop service to St. Petersburg, Russia with a Boeing 747. Currently, the only other US airline operating to Russia is Delta Air Lines which flies nonstop to Moscow.

Baltia Air Lines will provide First, Business and Coach passenger service. It will also provide reliable express cargo services under the Baltia name, as well as carry containers for major overnight shippers.

After starting the JFK-St. Petersburg nonstop service, Baltia plans to develop its initial route network, flying nonstop from JFK to Riga, Kiev and Minsk. Baltia Air Lines' goal is to become the leader in full-service passenger, cargo and mail transportation between the major U.S. cities and the capital cities of Eastern Europe.

Baltia plans services that no other airline is presenting, including delicious meals prepared by top chefs from outstanding restaurants in both New York and St. Petersburg, which should make traveling with Baltia a very comfortable and unique experience.

Current traffic between JFK and St. Petersburg is carried by European airlines with one or two connecting flights, because only U.S. and Russian airlines can operate nonstop between the two nations. Website: http://www.baltia.com  

 

Continental Airlines to Inaugurate Daily Service to Copenhagen, Denmark

 Continental Airlines (NYSE:CAL) has inaugurated daily nonstop flights between its New York hub at Newark Liberty International Airport and Copenhagen, Denmark. With Copenhagen, Continental now offers transatlantic service to 28 cities in 15 countries. "Our new Copenhagen service rounds out our Scandinavian network by complementing the existing flights we offer to Oslo and Stockholm," said Jim Summerford, Continental Airlines vice president Europe, Middle East & India. "With our summer 2006 transatlantic expansion complete, we're ready to deliver the industry-leading product that our customers want for their vacation and business travel to Europe."

Service to Copenhagen will be operated by a 172-seat Boeing 757-200 aircraft, carrying 16 passengers in the BusinessFirst cabin and 156 in economy. Flight CO122 departs New York/Newark daily at 5:35 p.m., arriving at Copenhagen at 7:30 a.m. the following day. The return flight, CO123, departs Copenhagen daily at 9:00 a.m., arriving at New York/Newark at 11:45 a.m. Flying time will be approximately seven hours 55 minutes eastbound and 8 hours, 45 minutes westbound. During the winter months, when demand traditionally declines, Continental will operate five flights per week on the route, reverting to a daily service in spring 2007.

 

China Southern Announces New Routes To Singapore And Baku

China Southern Airlines, - with the largest and most technically advanced aircraft fleet in The People's Republic of China is pleased to announce further expansion of its International route network with new service to Baku and Singapore.

China Southern’s Hainan Branch has launched all-new 737 service between Haikou and Singapore. China Southern Airlines flight CZ3097/3098 will operate a Boeing 737 between Haikou and Singapore each Tuesday and Friday.

China Southern Airlines Xinjiang Branch has started new 757 service from Urumqi in Northwestern China to Baku, the capital of Azerbaijan. China Southern Xinjiang Branch currently operates nine International routes to eight countries. China Southern’s flight CZ6023/4 will operate a Boeing 757 service between Urumqi and Baku each Tuesday.

The largest airline in The People’s Republic of China for the past 27 years, China Southern Airlines connects more than 80 cities around the globe. Major business and vacation destinations served in China include: Beijing, Chengdu, Guangzhou, Guilin, Hong Kong, Kunming, Shanghai, Shenzhen and Wuhan and as well as international service, including: Amsterdam, Bangkok, Fukuoka, Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Islamabad, Kuala Lumpur, Jakarta, Los Angeles, Manila, Melbourne, Moscow, Osaka, Paris, Penang, Phnom Penh, Seoul, Singapore, Sydney and Tokyo. For China Southern Airlines reservations and information, please contact your local travel agent. Website:  www.cs-air.com/en

China Southern Expands European Amsterdam Service;

- China Southern Airlines will be launching daily Boeing 777 from Amsterdam to Guangzhou with a stop in Beijing. China Southern currently operates four times weekly from Amsterdam’s Schiphol Airport to Beijing – continuing onward to Guangzhou. This service, operated under code-share service with KLM Royal Dutch Airlines (www.klm.com ), will increase to five times weekly on June 24 before going daily on August 14. For additional information and reservations in Amsterdam, please phone your travel agent or China Southern at (31) 20 - 412-0302. Website: www.cs-air.com/en  

 

LTU Offers More Choices Online With Newly Enhanced Website

LTU International Airways, one of Germany’s leading airlines, is offering more destinations online for those passengers booking on the newly enhanced www.ltu.com  website. The new navigation system helps customers find their way around LTU’s wide range of  offerings and provides a faster overview of all functions. The goal was to make the site multi-functional, so our customers can quickly access the information they need. In addition to the booking functionality, the new site also offers comprehensive travel information as well as an extensive content about LTU’s ground and in-flight services. 

Passengers looking to book a flight will receive a choice of dates and fare offers once they enter their preferred itinerary. This will enable them to compare fares on alternate dates for best price availability. In addition to the economy-class prices, passengers will also see our attractive business class fares allowing them to upgrade to a more comfortable flight.   

The LTU website now also offers the possibility to book connections from many US cities such as Las Vegas, San Francisco, Washington and more, in combination with LTU’s service to Germany. LTU operates non-stop service from New York, Los Angeles, Miami, Orlando and Fort Myers to Duesseldorf, LTU’s hub in Germany. Convenient connections to other European cities are also available.

 

JetBlue Begins Service Between New York/JFK And Portland, Maine

On May 23, JetBlue commenced new nonstop service between New York's JFK and Portland, Maine. JetBlue's new service to Portland, ME is the only nonstop service between JFK and Portland and it will also be a connecting city to 30 other JetBlue destinations. It will offer four flights daily.

 

Delta reveals latest details in JFK expansion plans

Delta, following through on previously announced plans to turn New York’s Kennedy Airport into a Delta hub this year, said it will add 25 daily Delta Connection nonstop flights to 14 domestic destinations between July and October. With the additions, all using 50-seat regional jets or 37-seat turboprops, Delta will offer more than 140 peak-day daily domestic departures from Kennedy by October. That’s more than double the number it offers now. Delta had disclosed in March its plans to turn Kennedy into a hub, primarily by adding dozens of flights from the Northeast to feed traffic to its growing international service at the airport.

 Internationally from Kennedy, Delta will be adding service May 15 to Budapest, Hungary; Manchester, England; and Dublin and Shannon, Ireland; June 1 to Kiev, Ukraine; and June 16 to Sao Paulo, Brazil.

 

SWISS Posts A Black-Ink First-Quarter Result

Swiss International Air Lines (Group) achieved earnings before interest and taxes (EBIT) of CHF 23 million for the first quarter of 2006. The positive operating result compares to a negative EBIT of CHF 10 million for the same period last year. SWISS also reports a consolidated net profit of CHF 4 million for the first three months of 2006 (prior-year period: net loss of CHF 44 million).

 

Virgin Atlantic Airways Introduces Life-Saving Technology Onboard

Virgin Atlantic Airways it will introduce Tempus, the telemedicine device designed for use by non-medical experts during a remote medical emergency, onto its aircraft. The airline has signed a deal effective through 2009, providing sufficient time for the entire Virgin Atlantic fleet to be fitted with the equipment.

Tempus uses the satellite technology that operates Virgin Atlantic’s onboard telephone system to transmit medical information such as pulse rate and blood pressure readings as well as video images to medical experts at the MedAire Centre in Phoenix, Arizona.  The ground-based doctors can then diagnose the problem and advise the crew on the next course of action, enabling crew to use their medical training to assist the passenger.

Virgin Atlantic was the first airline to introduce defibrillators across its fleet and has used the MedLink remote doctor service, for many years. The advanced technology used by the Tempus system significantly increases the airline’s onboard medical provision.  Cabin As was the case after the roll out the defibrillators, it is expected that this technology will soon be adopted as industry standard.

 

Air Jamaica Increases Flights To Grenada From New York/JFK

Air Jamaica has announced more flights to Grenada, the Caribbean island, this summer, increasing its non-stop schedule from four to five flights per week to and from New York's JFK International Airport, beginning the week of June 25, 2006.

JM 94, which currently operates on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays, will have an additional Thursday departure. All flights depart New York's JFK at 10:30 a.m., arriving in Grenada at 3:10 p.m. On the return leg, JM 95 departs Grenada at 4:00 p.m. and arrives in New York at 8:50 p.m.

Air Jamaica provides more non-stop flights to Jamaica than any other carrier with more than 270 flights per week from Atlanta, Baltimore/Washington, Chicago, Fort Lauderdale, Los Angeles, Miami, Newark, New York (JFK), Orlando, and Philadelphia in the U.S., Toronto , Canada and from London to Montego Bay and Kingston.

Air Jamaica offers intra-regional service with flights between Jamaica and Bahamas, Barbados, Bonaire, Cuba, Curaçao, Grand Cayman and St. Lucia. The airline's code share agreement with Delta Airlines, its joint fare arrangements and compatible schedules with United, and other U.S. carriers, extend its access to more than 150 cities within the continental U.S. For further information, visit www.airjamaica.com.

 

Continental Airlines to Inaugurate Daily Service to Cologne/Bonn, Germany

Continental Airlines (NYSE:CAL) inaugurated this month daily nonstop flights between its hub at Newark Liberty International Airport and Cologne/Bonn, Germany. This will be the only scheduled nonstop transatlantic service between the U.S. to the two German cities. "Starting service to Cologne/Bonn is another important step in the expansion of our transatlantic network," said Jim Summerford, Continental's vice president Europe, Middle East and India. "This route gives our customers a choice of four Continental destinations in Germany, including our existing service to Berlin, Frankfurt and Hamburg."

Service to Cologne/Bonn will be operated with a 172-seat Boeing 757-200 aircraft, carrying 16 passengers in the BusinessFirst cabin and 156 in economy.

Flight 110 will depart Newark Liberty daily at 6:45 p.m., arriving in Cologne/Bonn at 8:10 a.m. the following day. The return trip, flight 111, departs Cologne/Bonn daily at 10:35 a.m., arriving in New York/Newark at 1:20 p.m. Flying times will be approximately 7 hours, 25 minutes eastbound and 8 hours, 45 minutes westbound. During the winter months, when demand traditionally declines, Continental will scale back to five flights per week, but revert to daily service again in spring 2007.

As part of the route launch, Continental is offering a special promotion to its frequent flyers. OnePass members who book and travel to Cologne between May 10, 2006 and July 31, 2006 will earn 2,000 bonus miles. This offer requires registration. OnePass members can register for the promotion online at continental.com using promotion code 58037.

 

AirTran Airways Begins Nonstop Service Between Indianapolis and Los Angeles

In May, AirTran Airways, a subsidiary of AirTran Holdings, Inc. launched the airline's new nonstop daily service from Indianapolis International Airport to Los Angeles International Airport. The service will operate on the airline's popular Boeing 737 aircraft. In addition to the new nonstop service to Los Angeles launching today, AirTran Airways will continue to expand its route network to the West with nonstop service to San Francisco International Airport beginning June 7, 2006, and an added nonstop flight to Los Angeles starting June 20, 2006. As of June 20, the airline will fly to eight nonstop destinations from Indianapolis: Atlanta, Ft. Lauderdale (seasonal), Ft. Myers, Los Angeles, Orlando, San Francisco, Sarasota/Bradenton (seasonal) and Tampa.

 

Mexicana Begins Cancun/Miami Service June 1

Mexican low-cost, low-fare carrier Click Mexicana plans to enter the U.S. market June 1 with service between Cancun and Miami, pending U.S. government approval.

Mexicana  previously offered only domestic service, plans to offer thrice-daily flights on the Miami-Cancun route with Fokker F100 aircraft.

Mexicana might not be the only Mexican low-cost, low-fare carrier to expand its services across the border this year. Avolar, which launched Mexico domestic service in September, is said to be developing plans for scheduled service to selected U.S. points by year’s end.

 

Singapore Airlines To Fly To Milan And Barcelona

Two of southern Europe’s style and fashion capitals are about to join the Singapore Airlines network, with the commencement of a three-times-weekly service to Milan and Barcelona from July 19, 2006. Flights will be operated using a Boeing 777-200ER (Extended Range) aircraft, departing Singapore on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, with next-day return flights. (Please refer to note below for full flight schedule.)

Singapore Airlines will be the only airline to fly between Singapore and both these Mediterranean cities. With the addition of these new destinations, Singapore Airlines will fly 81 times weekly to 12 cities in Europe. The number of destinations in the Airlines’ route network will also increase to 65 in 35 countries. 

A special introductory fare of $888* to both Milan and Barcelona, from Singapore, is available for customers who depart within the first two weeks, and book their tickets between now and 16 June 2006. For more details on this promotion, or other fares (including from other destinations), customers should visit www.singaporeair.com.

 

Continental Starts Flights to Moncton, New Brunswick From New York

Continental Airlines has begun the first ever nonstop flight between the airline's New York hub at Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) and New Brunswick's Greater Moncton International Airport (YQM). Moncton is the ninth city served in Canada by Continental Airlines. "This new nonstop flight gives travelers the most convenient service to New Brunswick," said Zane Rowe, Continental's vice president network strategy. "With Continental's hub at Newark, the flight is timed to provide easy

connections for travelers arriving from cities throughout the U.S., Europe, Asia, the Caribbean and Latin America."

Continental Express, the regional carrier for Continental Airlines, is operating the new flight utilizing a 50-seat Embraer ERJ-145 regional jet. Customers flying on the new service receive OnePass frequent flyer miles for every trip, online check-in up to 24 hours before departure and automated self-service check-in at every airport Continental serves in the U.S. In addition, customers have the ability to book flights, check in, redeem frequent flyer awards and more at http://www.continental.com.

 

Frontier Airlines Offers New Los Angeles/San Francisco Flights

Frontier Airlines will begin new, non-stop service between San Francisco International Airport (SFO) and Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), beginning June 29, 2006. The new service will be offered five times daily between the two cities and all flights will utilize Frontier's new Airbus aircraft, with 33 inches of legroom and 24 channels of DirecTV, which will be offered free for on flights between San Francisco and Los Angeles through Labor Day (Sept. 4, 2006).

The announcement marks Frontier's first point-to-point service in California. In addition, Frontier is the only Low Cost Carrier (LCC) to serve the popular non-stop route between Los Angeles and San Francisco. The new service complements Frontier's seven daily flights between Los Angeles and Denver, and five daily flights between San Francisco and Denver.

Members of Frontier Airlines' mileage program, EarlyReturns(R) will receive double bonus miles for travel between San Francisco and Los Angeles through September 4, 2006. For free enrollment in the program, customers can visit Frontier's website at www.frontierairlines.com, pick up an EarlyReturns enrollment form at any Frontier airport counter, or call Frontier's EarlyReturns Service Center toll-free hotline at 866-26-EARLY or Frontier's reservations at 800-4321-FLY.

 

Air Berlin's UK Expansion Continues at Stansted

Air Berlin, Europe's third-biggest low-cost carrier, signaled its commitment to further develop its main UK hub at London Stansted this month with its first scheduled flights to Alicante in Spain. The airline is also further developing its domestic network by commencing its first scheduled flights between Stansted and Belfast City Airport today.

"The new Alicante and Belfast routes mark an exciting time for our airline. We have decided to increase our commitment to the UK market as we found that British passengers responded enthusiastically to the Air Berlin low-cost high-quality model." said Air Berlin CEO Joachim Hunold.

Air Berlin already flies from London Stansted to sixteen destinations in Spain and Portgual via its hub in Palma, Majorca, and recently launched flights from Glasgow and Manchester to its UK hub at Stansted. Customers with connections to Air Berlin's European destinations benefit from super fast transfer times through London Stansted.

Air Berlin is Germany's second largest airline and the third largest low-fare carrier in Europe. The airline was founded in 1978 and has been enjoying steady growth ever since. The airline has set new standards with its Euro Shuttle, which links European cities. In 2005 the airline achieved a turnover of 1.22 billion euros and carried 13.5 million passengers. Since early 2004 Air Berlin has held a 24 per cent stake in NIKI, the Austrian low-fare airline founded by Niki Lauda.

BAA Stansted is the UK's third largest airport, currently handling 22.3 million passengers a year. More than 30 airlines operate from the terminal to over 150 destinations across 34 countries. The airport offers more direct connections across Europe than any other UK airport and has recently welcomed the return of trans-Atlantic connections to the USA (New York JFK and Washington Dulles). Visit www.stanstedairport.com  for further information.

 

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Rail News & Offers

 

Travel Around Britain With BritRail Pass and Your Companion Goes Half Price

ACP Rail International's BritRail Guest Pass* promotion lets visitors to Britain tour the country by train and take their British hosts along for the ride. It is an unique opportunity for Britain-based friends and relatives to experience the flexibility and convenience of the world-renowned BritRail Pass—an opportunity not normally available to residents of Britain. Any in-bound tourist to Britain who orders one of the qualifying BritRail Passes before December 31st 2006 can be rewarded with a 50 percent discount on a comparable full price, adult, First Class BritRail Guest Pass for their friends or relatives.

Prices start from just EUR86 for the first pass purchased and EUR43 for his or her British guest.

This First Class travel promotion offers a selection of including the network-wide BritRail Consecutive Pass and BritRail FlexiPass, the BritRail England Passes or the BritRail London Plus Pass for travel in England's south-east. But travelers must buy before they fly.

Note: BritRail Passes are not for sale in Britain. Travel must be completed within the validity period of the Pass selected and within 6 months of the date of issue.

For more information about BritRail and BritRail Guest Pass go to www.BritRail.com or visit your travel agent.

*BritRail Guest Pass is only valid for use by a British resident, able to produce proof of residency and accompanied on each journey by an overseas visitor with a matching BritRail Pass product. The BritRail Guest Pass promotion cannot be combined with BritRail Senior, Family or Party discounts or any other BritRail promotional offer.

 

50% Discount On One-Way Thalys Tickets Between France-Belgium-Netherlands

One-way full-fare tickets on all routes of the high-speed Thalys train connecting Paris-Brussels-Amsterdam are now on sale at 50 percent off the normal price for summertime travel from Rail Europe. Tickets must be booked by August 15 for travel between June 1 and August 31, 2006. 

This special offer is for first- or second-class full-fare tickets between all French, Belgian, Dutch and German cities Thalys serves.  The normal one-way full-fare ticket between Paris and Brussels costs from $163 US/$198 CAD (1st class) or $105 US/$128 CAD (2nd), compared to the promotional fare from $82 US/$100 CAD (1st) or $53 US/$65 CAD (2nd).  Between Paris and Amsterdam the normal full-fare ticket costs from $220 US/$267 CAD (1st) or $137 US/$166 CAD (2nd); with the summer promotion, that drops to $110US/$134 CAD (1st) or $69 US/$84 CAD (2nd).  While full-fare tickets are fully exchangeable and refundable, the summer promotional fares are non-exchangeable and non-refundable. Note: this promotion is not valid for travel to/from Germany. 

Thalys takes just 1 hour 25 minutes to go from downtown Paris to Brussels, most of the journey made at 186 mph.  In 2007, all Thalys tracks will be high-speed and travel times Paris-Amsterdam (currently 4 hrs 11 min.) and Paris-Cologne (presently 3 hrs 50 min) will be cut to 3 hrs 9 min and 2 hrs 50 min, respectively.  Up to 27 trains travel between Paris and Brussels in each direction daily, making the service convenient as well as fast.

For more information or to book, contact a travel agent or Rail Europe at 1-888-382-7245 in the U.S. or 1-800-361-7245 in Canada, or log onto www.raileurope.com or www.raileurope.ca (in Canada).

 

Buy Before June 15 From Rail Europe And Save On Future Rail Purchases

Buy a railpass before June 15, and Rail Europe will credit 25 percent of the purchase price towards another European rail product – either a pass or ticket(s) booked later in the year.   The second purchase, which must be made between September 1-December 31, 2006, must have a value of at least double the credit, which means you save 50% on train travel.

For example, a couple vacationing in Hungary, Czech Republic and Poland this summer using two European EastPasses (from $488 US/$586 CAD for two) would earn a credit of $122 US/$146 CAD toward a pair of roundtrip Eurostar Leisure Select tickets (normally costing $284 US/$344 CAD in 1st class) to do some Christmas shopping in London and Paris in November or December. 

Since passes are valid for six months, parents could buy one Eurail Youth Pass (from $465 US/$532 CAD for ten days of rail travel in 18 countries within a 2-month period) for their son or daughter to roam around Europe this summer and earn $116 US/$133 CAD credit towards two 1st class France Saverpasses (normally costing a total of from $460 US/$552 CAD) to celebrate the wine harvest this fall.  Or use it to buy two three-day Swiss Flexi SaverPasses (normally costing a total of $448 US/$538 CAD), which could be used for a skiing vacation through next March. 

This offer is available for bookings made on Rail Europe’s website www.raileurope.com   (Canadian version: www.raileurope.ca) or by calling the company’s toll-free number (1-888-382-7245 in the U.S. or 1-800-361-7245 in Canada).  The credit offer is valid for all railpasses (except the German and Trenitalia passes).  Last name must be the same on all bookings.

To receive the 25% credit for a future purchase, customers simply complete a coupon received with their railpass and submit this to Rail Europe with the used pass.  They’ll receive notification from Rail Europe on their credit. Full details as well as the coupon can be found on www.raileurope.com/pass_deals [in Canada www.raileurope.ca/pass_deals ]

 

Visit Da Vinci Code Country With Royal Scotsman’s Classic Scotland Package

The Royal Scotsman has teamed up with the Classic Car Club, Edinburgh, and Greywalls Country House Hotel to introduce a new Classic Scotland package for the 2006 season, allowing guests to enjoy luxuries by rail and historical Edinburgh by road. This exclusive package is available to travelers booking a four-night Classic journey on board The Royal Scotsman and includes two days exploring the Scottish borders and Da Vinci Code country around the famous Rosslyn Chapel courtesy of Classic Car Club, as well as one-night’s accommodations with breakfast at Greywalls Country House Hotel.  The all-inclusive package is available from now through October 24, 2006, and begins at $12,400 for two people, depending on car chosen.

Upon arrival into Edinburgh, travelers can choose between an array of vintage cars provided by Classic Car Club including a 1964 Jaguar Mk2 3.8 manual overdrive saloon or a 1969 Mercedes 280SL Pagoda convertible. From here they can head south to nearby Roslin Village to see Rosslyn Chapel made famous by the Da Vinci Code and then drive through the scenic country side before arriving at the elegant Greywalls Country House Hotel for an overnight stay.  Situated close to the Firth of Forth at Gullane in an undiscovered region of Scotland, this delightful country hotel offers uninterrupted views - to one side, over Muirfield and the Firth of Forth - to the other side, over the gardens and the gentle rolling farmland to the Lammermuir Hills.  After breakfast the following morning, guests have the car for a second day to further explore the surrounding area before making their way back to Edinburgh for the four-night Classic journey onboard The Royal Scotsman.

Direct non-stop flights from North America to Edinburgh include Continental Airlines from Newark and Delta Airlines from Atlanta, launching this June.  Additionally, Edinburgh is 45 miles from Glasgow, which offers direct non-stop flights from Newark, Philadelphia and Chicago, and is easily accessible with multiple daily flights from all London Airports.

To make reservations, please call directly to Orient Express Hotels, Trains & Cruises on

1-800-922-8625, send an e-mail to oereservations.providence@orient-express.com. Quote Code: TADV. For further information on Classic Car Club, Edinburgh, visit www.cccedinburgh.co.uk. For more information on Greywalls, visit www.greywalls.co.uk.

Edwardian splendor with modern luxury while transporting discerning travelers through the breathtaking and unspoiled Scottish countryside.  Passengers can visit exclusive castles and private estates, savor exquisite regional cuisine paired with superb wines, all while being indulged with the utmost in hospitality and service. For additional information, please visit www.royalscotsman.com.

 

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Family Travel News & Offers

 

Non-Stop Flights and Non-Stop Family Action - Bermuda

Just under two hours by air from the East Coast, Bermuda's famous pink-sand beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters are the just the beginning of family fun on the island.  Kids of all ages will enjoy afternoons learning to tee off on the island’s sprawling golf courses, make friends with live dolphins at Dolphin Quest, and watch Bermuda’s colorful Gombey dancers perform dazzling routines.  Bermuda’s summer nights through October feature daily street festivals which invite families to wander along the island’s historic districts and quaint streets sampling international cuisine, live music and thriving culture.   Premier cottage colony Cambridge Beaches welcomes grandparents to enjoy a 25 percent discount on any second room when the first is booked for regular price.  At Cambridge Beaches, kids under 17 eat free, and can arrange for a family’s private boating trip, kayak safaris, and private sunset sails. More family programs and packages are available at additional Bermuda hotels.  For more information, please visit www.bermudatourism.com  or call the Bermuda Department of Tourism at 1-800-BERMUDA (1-800-237-6832).

 

Disney Launches New Program For Preschoolers Traveling With Families

Disney announced a new, breakthrough program devoted to families traveling with toddlers or preschoolers this month. Called Magical Beginnings, it was custom designed based on both consumer research and guest feedback and is aimed at reducing the hassles and increasing the magic for parents when vacationing with toddlers and preschoolers. “Magical Beginnings is all about making our parks and resorts even more accessible and appealing to a huge and important group of people—families with very young children,” said Jay Rasulo, chairman of Walt Disney Parks and Resorts. “Magical Beginnings reinforces our commitment to creating an easy- to-plan, easy-to-navigate vacation filled with activities that allow families to create lifelong memories.”

Disney theme parks in Florida and California have always been the perfect playground for the whole family, but new attractions, shows and amenities make the parks and resort hotels even more welcoming to “little ones.”

 The new Magical Beginnings program offers value travel packages, captivating entertainment, targeted planning tools and a host of services and amenities to make navigating Disney parks with children five years and younger easier then ever.

Recent research released by travel marketing experts Yesawich, Pepperdine, Brown and Russell (YPB&R) shows that eight out of ten families believe the ideal age to take a first major vacation with children is when the children are five years old or younger. The research revealed the families are seeking family-friendly destinations that offer activities for both kids and parents. Florida and California are the states family travelers want to visit most, with Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort as the preferred destinations. And nine out of ten preschool parents would consider taking their young children on a theme park vacation as long as the park offered age- appropriate rides and services.

Walt Disney World Resort has created an exciting seven-week travel period filled with savings and special events ideal for youngsters and parents during a traditionally less busy time of year.

-- From Aug. 13 to Sept. 30, these families can enjoy a new package that offers free dining for the entire family. Packages include a five-day, four- night stay at a value resort, “Magic Your Way” theme park tickets and free Disney Dining plan (one table-service meal, one snack and one quick-service meal per day). Packages begin at $950 for two adults and one child (ages 3- 9), $173 per additional child.

-- Throughout the special travel time Disney will showcase dynamic concerts and special entertainment for little ones. “Playhouse Disney in Concert,” presented by Huggies and Pull-Ups brands, includes performances by Disney Channel favorites The Wiggles, who will perform multiple shows daily, Aug. 29- Sept. 1. The award-winning Australian foursome will rouse the crowd with songs like “Yummy, Yummy” and “Big Red Car” as they headline a kid-friendly concert at Disney-MGM Studios. Youngsters can dance and sing along with other favorites including the Doodlebops; Johnny & the Sprites, featuring Johnny Tartaglia; Dan Zanes and more—all scheduled to appear during the seven-week travel time. Plus, Disney Live family entertainment featuring the new “Mickey’s Magic Show” created by Feld Entertainment will make its first-ever park appearance.

-- During the Little Ones Travel Time, Fantasyland at Magic Kingdom will open an hour early on select days for Disney guests and their small-fry for favorites such as Dumbo the Flying Elephant, it’s a small world and Peter Pan’s Flight, and a new play area called Pooh’s Playful Spot. Plus, youngsters can meet favorite characters during the special edition Extra Magic Hours. While guests must have Resort ID and valid ticketing for the parks offering this Fantasyland Extra Magic Hours, there is no additional charge to enjoy this extra time in the parks. This early access allows families with young ones to get an early start to their day and maximize park time before heading back to their Disney resort for an afternoon break.

-- Character dining experiences have traditionally proven to be a great way to introduce little ones to Disney characters, with a dozen offerings throughout Disney parks and resorts. Coming this summer, kids can now dine and get autographs with Playhouse Disney pals JoJo and Goliath, and characters from Disney’s Little Einsteins will meet and greet guests at Hollywood and Vine at Disney-MGM Studios.

-- Other magical experiences for little ones include the new Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique at World of Disney in Downtown Disney. A little girl can be transformed into her favorite princess with fancy hairstyles, glittery nails and dazzling costume makeovers. Reservations for Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique are strongly encouraged by calling 407/WDW-STYLE. And young adventurers can pretend to sail the high seas and hoist the Jolly Roger in the new, interactive Adventure Room in World of Disney. Young heroes and heroines can fill treasure chests and skulls with pirate plunder, create their own seafaring hat and interact with a new pirate named Rusty Blade.

-- Planning a trip and navigating the parks will be easier than ever thanks to on-line planning tools, a Magical Beginnings in-park map highlighting age- appropriate attractions, hassle-reducing services and specially trained Disney reservation agents. For more information, visit http://www.disneyworld.com and select “Something For Everyone” and choose “Preschoolers” for more details and travel tips.

-- Guests traveling by air don’t need to worry about carting their luggage and their little ones through the airport. With the innovative and complimentary Disney’s Magical Express, guests check their bags at their hometown airport, bypass baggage claim at Orlando International Airport and are whisked to all the Disney fun while their bags are delivered to their hotel rooms. The Disney magic even extends to the trip home for guests flying on many major airlines as guests can check their bags and get their boarding passes right at their Disney resort hotel.

Bookings for the new travel package during the Little Ones Travel Time at Walt Disney World Resort can be made through June 4 by calling 407/WDW-PREK, or http://www.disneyworld.com/preK. For more information on Magical Beginnings, visit http://www.disneymagicalbeginnings.com.

 

All Ages Enjoy A Personalized Vacation At Beaches Resorts In Caribbean

Beaches Resorts, the all-inclusive luxury resorts for families, offers four locations, on the Caribbean’s best beaches in Jamaica and Turks & Caicos.  Parents, grandparents, and kids of all ages can enjoy a personalized vacation of their very own. 

Beaches Resorts includes Kids Camps geared for every age group complete with expert childcare provided by Beaches’ own ultra nannies. Xbox Game Oasis Centers are a way to cool off from the heat, while themed Pirates Island water parks, the most comprehensive aqua playground’s in all the Caribbean, are the hot spot for adventure enthusiasts. 

As a proud sponsor of Sesame Street, Beaches is proud to offer year-round fun and exclusive activities with all your favorite furry friends from Dancing with Zoe and Baking Cookies with Cookie Monster to Exploring with Grover and Making Music with Bert and Ernie. 

Older kids can gravitate towards the action with teen karaoke nights, teen nightclubs, beach bonfires and even a scuba diving camp. Beaches National Geographic’s “Passport to Adventure” is a unique opportunity for adventurous participants to learn about the sea floor, coral life and reef fishes while being trained in basic diving skills. This five-day PADI certified course is available to Beaches guests who are 10 years old or older. 

And best of all, the best of everything is included in one simple price at Beaches Resorts —gourmet meals, anytime snacks and premium brand drinks, land and watersports, luxurious accommodations, and even tipping. New amenities include Butler Service for top category suites, Red Lane Spas—combining European traditions with a Caribbean flair – and Preston Bailey Signature WeddingMoons™.  For more information, visit www.beaches.com  or call 1-800- BEACHES (1-800-232-2437).

 

Rain Or Shine, It’s A Howling Good Time For All At Great Wolf Lodge

The nation’s largest family of indoor waterpark resorts operates seven properties in Wisconsin, Ohio, Michigan, Kansas, Virginia, Pennsylvania and Niagara Falls, Ontario.  The Lodge provides the perfect destination to gather family members from every neck of the woods for a chance to catch up, share stories and create new memories.  Unlike many resorts, which are greatly impacted by seasonality, Great Wolf Lodge defies vacation weather restraints by providing an experience enjoyed any time of the year.  Completely under one roof, the lodge creates a safe environment for grandparents to watch over their grandchildren or to hit the slides and lazy river for some water fun.  At the center of the resort is a remarkable waterpark complex with a tree house waterfort and activated water effects to thrill children and adults of all ages!  Other features include waterslides, pools, hot tubs and a lazy river.  Parents and grandparents are also encouraged to realize their artistic talents with a little help from their children in the Cub Club, where families enjoy arts and crafts together.  Great Wolf Lodge offers rooms accommodating up to eight people in “Cabins” with bunk beds, suites with private rooms, or lofts with separate areas for kids to play in the northwoods-themed suites or adults to relax with a little privacy.  For rates and more information, visit www.greatwolf.com or call 1.800.905.WOLF (9653).

 

Gondola Rides & Golf At Stoweflake Mountain Resort & Spa In Vermont

Stoweflake Mountain Resort & Spa, the AAA Four-Diamond resort, provides a one-of-a-kind setting with endless activities and family-friendly accommodations for a memorable summer getaway that both young and old can enjoy.  Grandparents can teach the kids how to golf in the resort’s golf facilities, while the grandchildren take them on an outdoor adventure.  The Grand Family Vacation package includes:  unlimited use of on-site golf facilities featuring a 9-hole, executive par-3 course with putting green and practice range; day pass to the Stowe Mountain Resort with activities such as gondola rides, alpine slide rides, bungee trampoline and climbing wall; one admission to the Stowe Golf Park; resort accommodations; and daily breakfast at the award-winning Winfield’s Bistro.  The three-night package begins at $982 for a family of two grandparents and two children under the age of 12.  The family can also enjoy accommodations in a Stoweflake townhouse for three nights beginning at $1,730.  For additional information on Stoweflake Mountain Resort & Spa, visit www.stoweflake.com or call 800-253-2232.

 

The Cliffs Resort In Pismo Beach, California Offers The Beach And More

The Cliffs Resort, the preferred, luxury property in California’s Central Coast, has been a top choice for family vacations, offering oceanfront accommodations with endless amenities, welcoming staff, and an abundance of fun and educational activities.  The Grandparents Getaway provides an enriching vacation that both grandparents and their grandchildren will cherish for years to come.

The three-night package includes:  a family trip to Avila Valley to sample fresh produce and baked goods, feed the farm animals at Avila Valley Barn, and a guided hike through the valley, choosing from a variety of daytime excursions or the nighttime Owl Call Walk; a day at the beach with Cliffs Resort souvenir towels, sand pails and picnic lunch; ice cream and choice of in-room movie or video game for the family’s last night at the resort; a disposable camera to record the trip; daily breakfast; and resort accommodations. For Sunday through Thursday stays, the three night packages starts at $509 for up to four guests, and starts at $609 for stays including Friday or Saturday.  The Grandparents Getaway offers an 18% savings and is valid through 2006.  For further details on The Cliffs Resort, visit www.cliffsresort.com or call 800-826-5838.

 

Head To Palm Beach, Florida For Family Fun Vacations At Discount Rates

With an average annual temperature of 78 degrees, Palm Beach County, Florida affords family travelers the opportunity to enjoy miles of beaches, crystal blue waters, outdoor adventures, continuous warm weather and endless shopping—all at great discounts through Value Season, beginning mid-April and lasting through mid-December.

Hotel Biba in West Palm Beach offers a Family Surf package that includes a room with two double beds for two nights, surf lessons for a family of four, one day free board rental and continental breakfast daily for four. Package price is $500.

The Chesterfield Palm Beach offers a four-day/three-night Kids Getaway package from May 1-Nov. 15.  It includes continental breakfast each morning, welcome gift for kids with bubble bath, fun soaps, and coloring books, a complimentary Build-A-Bear Workshop®, a choice of attractions tickets to visit the Dreher Park Zoo or the South Florida Science Museum, a free in-room movie with cookies and milk and a camera and photo album. Rates begin at $685 for a family of three (add $47 per additional child).  For more information, please visit www.palmbeachfl.com or call the Palm Beach County CVB at 1-800-554-PALM (1-800-554-7256).

 

Hilton Fort Lauderdale Beach Resort Personalizes Family Vacations

Families will feel like VIPS immediately upon check-in at this flagship resort, scheduled to open late-summer 2006. Families can be met at either the Fort Lauderdale airport, located just six minutes from the resort, or the Miami International Airport by a chauffeur in a luxury automobile equipped with bottled water and remote check-in services.  Upon arrival, kids will be directed to their dedicated children’s concierge who can check them in and inquire if they prefer chocolate chip or peanut butter cookies with their turndown service. Each suite’s kitchen can be fully stocked upon arrival with favorite snacks and beverages courtesy of the resort’s personal grocery service. For information, visit www.fortlauderdalebeachresort.com or call 1-800-HILTONS (1-800-445-8667).

 

Take Your Kids From The Stone Age To The Future In Providence, RI

While getting an “education” during summer break might not be at the top of children’s lists, Providence, RI offers grandparents the opportunity to disguise a truly enriching experience as an entertaining getaway with a variety of activities, festivals and attractions that expand their minds – and still light up their faces with smiles.  Family-fun abounds in Providence with exciting events such as WaterFire, an award-winning art installation that illuminates Providence’s rivers with more than 100 bonfires taking place on select dates during May-October, and FirstWorksKids, an international performance festival for both young and old taking place June 16-17. 

Families can learn who the real dinosaurs were at the nationally-acclaimed Roger Williams Park Zoo during an encore presentation of the popular DINOSAURS! exhibit taking place May 13-September 4, or reminisce with the classic book Goodnight Moon during the Rhode Island School of Design Museum’s special exhibit through July 23.  While in Providence, families can take up cooking with the master chefs at Johnson & Wales or Gepetto’s Pizzeria, test out fun experiments at the Providence Children’s Museum or enjoy a play or musical at one of the city’s many theaters. Year-round family packages are available at various hotels.  For further details, visit www.providencenightandday.com.

      

RiverBarge Trips Offers Grand Vacations For Families

At RiverBarge Excursion Lines, Inc., the only hotel barge traveling America's inland waterways, Grand Vacations create lasting memories as guests become a part of the RiverBarge Family. Family fun on America’s rivers and waterways means watching the alligators scurry around the bayous, taking in a visit to Churchill Downs or the Louisville Slugger, eating crawfish or dipping into the barge’s on board “Perpetual Cookie Jar” (it’s never empty and always available). While aboard the R/B River Explorer, families can learn about life on the river, make new friends and create special moments that will be remembered forever. For more information on 2006 and 2007 adventures, visit www.riverbarge.com  or call 1-888-GO BARGE (1-888-462-2743).

 

 

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Hotel News & Offers

 

Bavaria Offers Royal Overnights For 100 Euros or Less  

Want to try an alternative lodging where you get treated like a king or queen?  Then head to Germany where numerous royal residences invite guests.

In northern Bavaria, for starters, there is Castle Colmberg, which lies halfway between Ansbach and Rothenburg ob der Tauber in the area called Franconian Switzerland. The rooms start at 75 Euros per night and the castle kitchen and wine cellar offer Franconian delicacies and wines. Website:  www.burg-colmberg.de  

In the state of Baden Wuerttemberg, not far from Heidelberg, stands Castle Hornberg, an 11th-century knight’s castle, high above the River Neckar. Enjoy authentic and unmistakable charm of former centuries. Rooms go for 100 Euros per night.  Website: www.burg-hotel-hornberg.de  

Cinderella’s castle on the Fairy Tale Road in Hessen, Castle Sababurg, was made famous by the Grimm Brothers but today, the castle hotel has a wedding chapel, a theater, palace ruins as well as a romantic castle garden. Rooms are available for 50 Euro per person. For information on both hotels go to  www.gast-im-schloss.de.

In the northern state of Mecklenburg Vorpommern, in the beautiful and unknown Mecklenburg Lake District is Castle Hotel Grossplasten, an elegant hotel and spa built originally in 1751. Prices start at 45 Euros per person. The nearby Klink Castle has over 108 rooms and suites, a wellness-area with a panorama swimming pool with a view of the Lake Müritz. Prices start at 42,50 Euros per person. Both hotels at www.auf-nach-mv.de.

In western Germany, through the association of Culture & Castles—www.culture-castles.de —travelers can find a delightful assortment of private castles turned hotels. Burg Boetzelaer in Kalkar-Appeldorn, for example, is a 12th century former knight's castle embedded in the idyllic Lower Rhine park landscape along with Lake Boetzelar Three elegant double bedrooms and two romantic suites in the main part of the castle invite you to take a lavish and restful break in a fairytale-like tower. Prices start at 95 Euros.

    

Madeira’s Legendary Reid's Palace Reopens After Extensive Refurbishment

Reid's Palace reopened on April 14 after completing an €8.5 million (approximately US $10.5 million) renovation and spa construction. The hotel has been closed since January 16, 2006. In this most recent phase of refurbishment, the final 69 of the hotel's 163 rooms have been refreshed. There are now 35 suites and 128 rooms. Two new suites have been created in the main house with panoramic views over the Bay of Funchal. The garden wing rooms have been given a light, airy look, while the style in the main house is more classic. The cocktail bar has been modernized and the main entrance and reception area has also been redesigned for a more open feel upon arrival. The refurbishment works were carried out by interior designer Graham Viney, who is also responsible for the décor of the new cottage suites at the Mount Nelson Hotel in Cape Town.

Suite 980, once an eccentric, multi-room aerie at the top of the house, known as the honeymoon suite because of its secluded location, has been opened up, brightened and reconfigured to make the most of the glorious view across the Bay of Funchal and the Atlantic Ocean. Suite 934 has been created from two smaller rooms and has two sheltered balcony terraces and two bathrooms.

The two original swimming pools have been reshaped with an infinity edge and higher water temperatures and the smaller pool is now fresh water in response to consumer demand. There is now more space and better views for sun loungers around the pool, and the ocean pool terraces have been leveled, creating a more attractive area for guests beside the ocean.

Groups and corporate events at Reid's Palace will benefit from a beautiful new conference room with a capacity of up to 150 people theater style. Located adjacent to The Dining Room with its own separate foyer and entrance, it is ideal for meetings, private banquets or special events.

Construction is well under way for the mid-July opening of The Spa at Reid's Palace. Located in a separate building adjacent to the pool deck, the spa will have five treatment rooms and a 50.5 square meter fitness center. One treatment room has been designed for couples' treatments overlooking a secluded garden. All treatment rooms have views over the Bay of Funchal. The theme and content of the spa menu is currently under discussion. The Spa will be managed by Reid's Palace.

Reid's Palace epitomizes the spirit of travel. Opened in 1891 by William and Alfred Reid to accommodate passengers of the great ocean liners, it now stands for contemporary luxury and elegance. Perched on a cliff-top amid 10 acres of semi-tropical gardens, providing its own brand of personal service to all generations, the 164-room Reid's Palace offers relaxation and indulgence, romance and activity on the exotic, temperate island of Madeira. Website: www.orientexpress.com

 

Radisson Hotels & Resorts(R) Announces Two Sizzling Summer Getaway Packages

Radisson Hotels & Resorts today announced its launch of two new summer travel packages designed for adults and families seeking fun, convenience and relaxation. Known for making vacation planning seamless, Radisson has created The Getaway Package for adults and The Family Getaway Package for families. Both packages are available at all Radisson properties throughout the United States, Caribbean and Canada, and are effective May 15 through Oct. 1, 2006.

The Getaway Package offers all the comforts of home and then some for adults planning to travel for leisure this summer. It includes a Sleep Number(R) bed room rate, breakfast for two, late check-out, a bottle of red or white wine or non-alcoholic beverage, plus a gift bag filled with relaxation amenities and other surprises to help make the getaway complete.

The Family Getaway Package will instill fun memories for years to come. For the thousands of families that plan to travel together this summer, The Family Getaway Package is loaded with fun and convenience: a Sleep Number bed room rate, breakfast for four, a kid's backpack loaded with gear to keep the kids busy and happy, and a late

Radisson hotels offer Express Yourself(SM) guest check-in service, where guests can check-in via http://www.radisson.com at their convenience up to seven days in advance of their arrival, providing an expedited check-in and enabling more control over their hotel experience. In addition, Radisson Hotels & Resorts now feature Sleep Number beds throughout the U.S., Canada and the Caribbean, and healthy food choices are available on restaurant menus.

For reservations at any Radisson hotel or resort in the United States, Canada or Caribbean, visit http://www.radisson.com/Getaway,call 800-333-3333 or contact your travel consultant.

 

Hampton Inn At Manhattan’s Seaport Offers Affordable Lodging in NYC

Travelers to Manhattan's financial district got an economic boost today with the grand opening of the upscale, focused-service, 65-room Hampton Inn Manhattan/Seaport-Financial District. Located directly adjacent to the South Street Seaport, the nine-story hotel is situated in Manhattan's historic Seaport district at 320 Pearl Street.

"We are delighted to officially take our place within the renowned Seaport district community," said Sal Shahriar, executive vice president of Hersha Hospitality Management, owners and operators of the hotel. "Guests receive free high speed Internet access and local telephone calls, which can add more than $15 a night to the cost of other Manhattan hotels. Our hotel also offers a complimentary breakfast with hot and cold items, locally baked goods, seasonal fruit, and an assortment of coffees, teas and juices, as well as On-the-House breakfast bags to go for guests in a hurry. Breakfast in many Financial District full-service hotels can cost upwards of $20. Throw in such technological amenities as plasma televisions and we believe we're providing one of the best values in the city."

Located just five blocks from Wall Street, the hotel is nearby to the Ellis Island and Statue of Liberty Ferries, Battery Park and the Brooklyn waterfront. The hotel provides panoramic views of the Brooklyn Bridge, lush outdoor spaces and terraces, as well as a state-of-the-art fitness center and VegaP Architects of New York City-designed furnishings. Each room is equipped with the latest hi-tech amenities, including plasma flat screen TVs. For more information, please visit http://www.hershahotels.com.

 

Concorde’s Five-Star Hotel De La Paix In Geneva Reopens

Ideally situated on the shore of Lake Geneva with snowy Mont Blanc on the horizon, the fabled five-star Hotel de la Paix operated by Concorde Hotels & Resorts, has opened its doors once again after a yearlong renovation.  Preserving the soul and grandeur of its historic past, the transformation has created a “boutique hotel” feel within this historic landmark, as well as more spacious rooms, state-of-the-art technology and sophisticated cuisine in its restaurant. For stays through August 31, 2006, the hotel offers a rate of $1,077 per room for a three-night stay in a Superior room.

With 56 of the 84 rooms offering unobstructed views of Lake Geneva, the most striking feature of the renovation is the reworking of the space by interior designer, Sybille de Margerie.  Fewer rooms, 84 compared to 101 previously, all with spacious bathrooms, are spread over five floors.  There are now 14 airy and comfortable suites, five junior suites facing the gardens, and nine “bachelor pads” have been added below the roof of the top floor, offering sublime views.

Originally built in 1865, Hotel de la Paix was the first hotel in Switzerland with “peace” in its name—coinciding with the growing international interest in peace, the founding of the International Red Cross and Calvinists’ Geneva’s declaration of neutrality. Guests at the historic hotel in the latter part of the 19th Century included politicians, nobility, crowned heads, philosophers and writers.

The Hotel de la Paix may be booked at www.concorde-hotels.com or by calling Concorde’s North American reservation center at 1-800-888-4747. 

Concorde Hotels & Resorts comprise 60 luxurious hotels around the world, each with its own personality and style, all sharing a commitment to high-quality and attentive service.  Concorde is the deluxe hotel group of Louvre Hotels, recently acquired by Starwood Capital. Among the best known are the Hotel de Crillon, Hotel du Louvre and Hotel Lutetia in Paris, and the Hotel Martinez in Cannes.

 

Mandarin Oriental To Manage Luxury Hotel and Residences In Dallas

Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group has today announced that it will manage a new 120-room luxury hotel and 90 branded residences which are planned to open in Dallas, Texas in 2009.  Mandarin Oriental, Dallas will open in the city’s dynamic new Victory Park development, a $3 billion, 75-acre, mixed-use project located in the heart of Dallas. The hotel will occupy the first eleven floors of the new 43-story, 650-foot Victory Tower, the architectural centerpiece of Victory Park and one of the tallest residential structures in the state of Texas.  In addition to the hotel and luxury residences, Victory Tower will also house 75,000 square feet of internationally-recognized luxury retail shopping and 275,000 square feet of premier commercial office space. 

Mandarin Oriental, Dallas will be a showcase of elegant, contemporary design with a strong sense of place, while taking inspiration from the Group’s oriental heritage. With average room sizes of over 750 square feet, the 120 guestrooms will be amongst the largest in the city. All guestrooms will offer state-of-the-art entertainment and customer-centric technology systems, a hallmark of Mandarin Oriental hotels worldwide. 

Six dining and cocktail venues, including a signature restaurant and an all-day dining facility, will feature the exciting culinary creations for which Mandarin Oriental is renowned. An elegant Lobby Lounge will offer light refreshments, while a stylish and chic Bar will provide the perfect venue for evening cocktails. A dedicated Spa café will feature healthy, alternative fare, and an outdoor pool bar will be a popular choice for relaxation.

The Spa at Mandarin Oriental, Dallas will offer holistic rejuvenation and relaxation in a tranquil, meditative setting. As with all Mandarin Oriental spas, the 30,000 square foot space will include private treatment rooms as well as significant water and heat therapies. The spacious Spa area will include a lap pool, private Spa cabanas and a Spa café.  European-inspired beauty salons for men and women will also be featured.  The fully-equipped fitness facilities will be complemented by dedicated Pilates and yoga studios, as well as a large outdoor swimming pool.

The Residences at Mandarin Oriental, Dallas will be located above the hotel, on floors 22-43, offering spectacular views of the city. As with all Residences at Mandarin Oriental, owners will be treated as permanent guests of the hotel and will enjoy privileged access to the services and amenities provided on property.

The project is being developed by Hillwood, a Ross Perot, Jr. company, which is the developer of Victory Park.  The world-renowned architectural firm Kohn Pederson Fox has been commissioned for the design of Victory Tower.

 

Nantucket’s Veranda House Launches 2006 Season With A New Look

The recently renovated Veranda House offering 21st century high-end amenities, personalized services and a new boutique style in a 1684 building making it a  few decades younger than the first Mayflower journey. Located in the center of Nantucket Town, the landmark Veranda House is perched atop Step Lane, one of the island’s highest points.  The hotel was named for its three wrap-around balconies which offer unsurpassed views of Nantucket Harbor.  A handful of the 16 guestrooms, which includes a one-bedroom suite, feature private verandas providing the perfect setting for harbor gazing during morning coffee, afternoon tea or evening cocktails.  The hotel’s central location makes it easy for guests to explore the town’s numerous art galleries, world-class dining venues and shops.

Guests of the Veranda House will enjoy an epicure’s morning repast included in the nightly accommodation rate from $199 mid June through Dec. 9, 2006 (November rates from $119).  A sample breakfast might include organic yogurt, artisanal cheeses and a gourmet frittata.  Afternoon tea and cookies are served daily and a hosted wine and cheese reception is held Wednesday and Saturday evenings. 

Lulled by sea breezes, guests may find it difficult to rouse themselves from Frette- and- duvet-draped feather beds outfitted with a selection of decadent pillows.  Extra special touches in each room include hand-blown Simon Pearce lamps, Italian tile rain showers, bath amenities by Fresh and nature’s own “fresh” product, a vase of flowers.  An additional amenity that is complimentary to all guests is wireless high speed internet available throughout the Inn, as well as in-room data ports.

The Nantucket experience in today’s fast-paced world is right up there amongst the world-class travel icons. Seasonal events include the upcoming June 14-18 Nantucket Film Festival. Cranberry and scallop celebrations mark fall and winter as does the 33rd annual Christmas Stroll Weekend December 1-3. In late April is the annual Daffodil Festival and in May the Nantucket Wine Festival.

Nearly 40 percent of the island, formerly a whaling capital, is under conservation to preserve its wild moors and sandy beaches. The harbor front where Veranda House is located is a National Historic District replete with cobblestone and brick and old-fashioned street lamps. For additional information on The Veranda House or to make reservations please call 877-228-0695 or visit www.theverandahouse.com.

 

Goldeneye Gives Couples Five-Night Ultimate Romantic Escape Package

Tucked away discreetly on Jamaica's northern coast, Goldeneye prides itself on a reputation as one of the Caribbean's sexiest spots.   Perfect for jet-setting couples seeking a secret adventure, this former hideaway of James Bond creator Ian Fleming provides a unique mixture of exotic idyll with definitive cosmopolitan chic.  Starting at $3,950*, couples booking Goldeneye's new ultimate romantic escape Package receive a true immersion in paradise, including:

-- Five nights of lush accommodations in a secluded villa featuring French doors that open to a private veranda and a view of the stunning turquoise Caribbean Sea; an adjoining private garden with a romantic fantasy bath/shower set-up and the finest handmade amenities; a fully-stocked bar including wines and liquors, as well as ingredients for Goldeneye's signature rum fusion drink; and a 30-minute private garden couple's massage.

An all-inclusive experience, Goldeneye's packages include all food and beverages.

Goldeneye is a magical 18-acre retreat nestled among tropical forests and lush gardens on a seaside bluff overlooking the Caribbean.  It is renowned as the former home of "James Bond" novelist Ian Fleming, who spent nearly 20 winters at the retreat, penning 13 of his famous "007" thrillers there.  Now part of entertainment industry icon Chris Blackwell's Island Outpost Collection, Goldeneye provides simple luxury and casual comfort for worlds travelers.

With 12 bedrooms in five villas, Goldeneye can accommodate groups from two to 26.  Its exclusive accommodations are a combination of openness and exquisite seclusion, with breathtaking views of the Jamaican sunrise.  Goldeneye is lavishly decorated with Royal Hut's line of global home furnishings, batik bathrobes, towels and linens to create a mood of luxurious sensuality. All villas feature mosquito netting, candlelight, private outdoor garden tubs or showers, CD players and soothing CD collections, direct dial telephones and air conditioning in the bedrooms.  Goldeneye also offers an array of exciting water sports for guests seeking an action-packed Bond-reminiscent getaway, including jet skiing, glass bottom boat tours, and snorkelling.

For more information or to make bookings, call 1-800-OUTPOST or visit www.islandoutpost.com in the US; telephone 0800-OUTPOST1 in the UK.

Rates vary according to season; based on availability. Featured rate is based on a one-bedroom villa, suitable for a romantic couple's getaway.

 

Small Luxury Hotels Of The World Adds 15 New Hotels First Quarter of 2006

The global expansion of the brand of Small Luxury Hotels of the World (SLH)

has continued at an impressive rate with the recent addition of 15 new members. This growth follows closely on the heels of a 10% net growth in membership in 2006, and puts the SLH brand well on track to achieve its target of over 400 members for 2007. With the addition of the 15 new members, the SLH portfolio of hotels now includes 374 properties in 60 countries.

Europe remains the strongest area of development growth for the SLH brand, with the addition of ten new members thus far this year.  SLH's Italian portfolio has been enhanced with the brand's first member hotel in Naples (Grand Hotel Parker's) and also a first in the popular resort town of Portofino (Hotel San Giorgio).  There have also been two new additions in Florence (Villa Olmi Resort and Residenza del Moro) bringing the brand's total presence in the Italian city to five.

 In France, SLH's collection of 16 member hotels on the Cote d'Azur has been strengthened further by the addition of Villa Marie in St Tropez; while in the UK, Stapleford Park County House is the brand's first hotel in the Midlands.

Several other coups for SLH include key additions in Eastern Europe - Riva

Hotel in Hvar is the brand's first hotel in Croatia, Hotel Telegraaf in Tallinn is a

first for SLH in the Estonian capital, while Pachuv Palace in Prague adds to an existing collection of two hotels in the Czech Republic capital.  In Cyprus, the addition of The Residence will be SLH's second member hotel in the town of Paphos.

Demand for membership in Thailand also continues to be healthy.  Three properties have been added so far this year, bringing the total collection of SLH hotels in Thailand to 19, which is the largest grouping in Asia.  Also in Asia, the Malaysian portfolio now consists of three members with the new addition of Cameron Highlands Resort located in the state of Pahang (200km North of Kuala Lumpur). SLH has also accepted a spa and golf hotel in the suburbs of Wisconsin, USA, just outside Chicago.

The additions are:

Grand Hotel Parker's (Naples, Italy) 

Hotel San Giorgio (Portofino, Italy) 

Villa Olmi Resort (Florence, Italy)

Residenza del Moro (Florence, Italy)

Villa Marie (St Tropez, France) 

Stapleford Park Country House (Leicestershire, England)

Hotel Telegraaf (Tallinn, Estonia)

Pachtuv Palace (Prague, Czech Republic)

Riva Hotel (Hvar, Croatia)

The Residence (Paphos, Cyprus)

Lebua at State Towers (Bangkok, Thailand)

AKA Hotel Resort & Spa (Hua Hin, Thailand)

Twinpalms Phuket (Phuket, Thailand)

Twinpalms Phuket is located on Surin Beach, which is considered to be one of

Cameron Highlands Resort (Cameron Highlands, Malaysia)

The setting of Cameron Highlands Resort is both peaceful and picturesque,

The Delafield (Wisconsin, USA)

Hotels interested in applying for membership with Small Luxury Hotels may visit www.slhmembership.com for further information and details. 

The Small Luxury Hotels of the World brand is a collection of over 360 independently-owned exclusive hotels in 60 countries.  Carefully selected for their style and sophistication.  Reservations can be made at any Small Luxury Hotels of the World property by calling 800 525 4800 or via the Internet at www.slh.com. Travel agents can use the GDS code LX for LuXury.

 

Hotelito Desconocido Joins Mexico Boutique Hotels Collection

Mexico Boutique Hotels, a collection of stylish properties throughout Mexico that create diverse experiences in incredible destinations has announced the addition of Hotelito Desconocido, a renowned luxury property just 60 miles south of Puerto Vallarta.

Hotelito Desconocido, affectionately called 'Hotelito' by those in the know, is the 46th addition to Mexico Boutique Hotels' growing assortment of properties, each carefully selected for membership by Founder John Youden because of its distinctive individuality and charm.  Mexico Boutique Hotels has added 13 new members so far this year and is now more expansive than ever. 

Nestled on a wetland estuary on the Coast Allegre between the Sierra Madre Mountains and the Pacific Ocean, this newest Mexico Boutique Hotels member is located on one of the most famous sea turtle and bird reserves in Mexico. Just 60 miles South of Puerto Vallarta, 3 miles from Cruz de Loreto and less than two hours from the nearest airport, Hotelito uses only solar energy.  At night, hundreds of candles light the rooms and restaurant while luminaries illuminate pathways that meander throughout the resort. A short rowboat ride across the estuary, the Pacific washes ashore a pristine virgin beach where sea turtles nest from July to January.

Surrounded by the natural sounds of birds and frogs, Hotelito's unique accommodations are constructed in the style of an old Mexican fishing village. Guestrooms are in palafitos' bungalows of indigenous construction, built on stilts over the edge of the estuary surrounding the main group of structures.  Wood floors and palapa roofs compliment each hut's decorative details with bright, colorful interiors.  Hand painted murals and whimsical antique furnishings are traditional Mexican with a modern flair.

The décor of each palafito has been styled after the Mexican lottery, a type of bingo game that uses images rather than numbers. Bathrooms feature bamboo showers   with water from solar-powered heaters   that provide privacy in a stunning garden backdrop. With no electricity, candles provide illumination at night and solar-powered ceiling fans provide optional in-room cooling.

Hotelito's oceanfront palapa restaurant and bar serves a sumptuous breakfast buffet and elegant dinners. A traditional Mexican kitchen prepares regional specialties with an emphasis on fresh fish and seafood, as well as prime beef and poultry.  Food is prepared with ingredients from the hotel's organic garden, as well as the daily catch of local fishermen. Lunch is served at Hotelito's Beach club, El Nopalito, an oasis overlooking 40 miles of unspoiled beach.

Guests of Hotelito can float lazily in an ingenious saltwater pool or luxuriate in a primitive spa, which boasts numerous authentic treatments including steam baths, cold water Jacuzzis, aromatherapy massage, reflexology, mud baths and hot stone massages.  For travelers seeking a more active escape, an array of activities are available including horseback riding, mountain biking, hiking, windsurfing, sailing, kayaking, billiards, bird watching, and more. From June to January, guests can participate in the sunset release of baby sea turtles from the nearby protected nesting area.

Mexico Boutique Hotels is a collection of diverse member properties categorized by their intimacy, high level of service and outstanding attributes. A group of small, independent hotels within Mexico that offer a unique vacation experience for guests, Mexico Boutique Hotels are typically less than 50 rooms and often serve as destinations unto themselves. Each offers a unique theme that sets it apart from other accommodations and provides top service and cuisine through a personalized experience.  Mexico Boutique Hotels are chosen by a team of travel and hospitality professionals with many years of experience in Mexico. A full directory of Mexico Boutique Hotels is available upon request or by logging onto www.mexicoboutiquehotels.com.   Online, travelers can create their own schedules, book transportation, and find other tools to help map out their dream vacation.  For more information or reservations, call 1-800-728-9098.

 

Summer Sizzlers - Historic Getaways From Historic Hotels of America(R)

Turn up the heat this summer with a historic getaway at National Trust Historic Hotels of America. From sandy beaches to sizzling summer nights, Historic Hotels of America is offering more than 60 getaways to some of America's best travel destinations. The summer specials and packages from Historic Hotels of America are featured at http://www.historichotels.org.

Here’s a sampling:

-- Don CeSar Beach Resort, St. Pete Beach, Florida. This ultimate escape for the mind and body invites guests to bury themselves in the latest "must-read" while sunbathing or sipping poolside cocktails. The Novel Beach Escape package features one night's accommodations, complimentary novel and two frozen beverages. (Available from June 1 through September 30, 2006; $169 per night, double occupancy on Sun.-Thurs. and $256 per night Fri. & Sat.)  Website: http://www.historichotels.org/hotel/Don_CeSar_Beach_Resort  

-- Napa River Inn, Napa, California. The Wine and Picnic package for two includes one night's accommodations, breakfast, wine-tasting, lunch at Bouchaine Vineyards, a picnic basket full of goodies and a signature gift from Bouchaine Vineyards. (Available through September 1, 2006; from $249 per night, per person.) Website: http://www.historichotels.org/hotel/218  

-- King & Prince Beach & Golf Resort, St. Simons Island, Georgia. Add some sizzle to your summer on St. Simons Island. The Beach, Bed and Breakfast package includes hotel accommodations, full buffet breakfast and all taxes and gratuities. (Available from May 26 through August 5, 2006; from $280 per couple, per night.) Website: http://www.historichotels.org/hotel/55  

-- Wort Hotel, Jackson Hole, Wyoming. Escape to Jackson Hole with Historic Preservation package. Enjoy a three- night stay in a deluxe room, half-day wildlife tour, tour of historic downtown Jackson Hole and a night cap in the Silver Dollar Bar. (Available from June 1 through September 30, 2006; $524 per person, based on double occupancy.) Website:  http://www.historichotels.org/hotel/172  

Historic Hotels of America, a program of the National Trust for Historic Preservation, has identified more than 200 hotels that have faithfully maintained their historic integrity, architecture and ambiance. To be selected for this prestigious program, a hotel must be at least 50 years old, listed in or eligible for the National Register of Historic Places or recognized as having historic significance. Reservations can be made though Historic Hotels of America. Website: http://www.historichotels.org.

 

Palace Resorts Extends The Palace Passport Promotion

Guests to any of the Palace Resorts’ line of deluxe all-inclusive resorts, which are located in the tropical Cancun/Riviera Maya/Nuevo Vallarta/Cozumel regions of Mexico, can look forward to days filled with adventure and evenings spent in comfort. Visitors have even more to look forward to, now, with the extension of the valuable Palace Passport package, worth up to $400, to guests that stay three nights or longer through December 23, 2007.

Guests that qualify for the package and are staying at Moon Palace Golf & Spa Resort, Aventura Spa Palace, Playacar Palace or Xpu-Ha Palace will receive unlimited tours to Chichen Itza, Chichen Itza (Light & Sound), Tulum Express, Coba, Ek-Balam/Valladolid, Isla Mujeres, Wet'n Wild and Sail & Snorkel (per person); a $50 voucher (per adult) toward the purchase of a round of golf at Playacar Spa & Golf Club or the Moon Spa & Golf Club; a  $15 voucher (per adult) toward a spa treatment at the Aventura Spa Palace, the Moon Spa & Golf Club or Playacar Spa & Golf Club; and a

$25 voucher (per room) toward car rental through Travesias Turisticas

Through the unlimited excursions offer at these four resorts, guests can experience the history of such Mayan sites as Chichen Itza, Tulum, Ek-Balam/Valladolid and Coba, which were all focal points of the ancient Mundo Maya (Mayan World). Those who would rather spend a relaxing day on the beach can choose to sail aboard a boat to Palace Resorts’ exclusive beach club, set on the quiet island of Isla Mujeres, and snorkel the island’s beautiful coral reef. The young at heart can spend the day at Wet'n Wild the area’s only action-packed adventure zone water park.  For the spa lover, the Palace Passport package encourages guests to spend the day at any of Palace Resorts’ world-class spas. Visitors have their choice of spas that are located at Aventura Spa Palace, Moon Spa & Golf Club or Playacar Spa & Golf Club. All of these top-of-the-line spas are staffed with experts in the art of pampering guests through the use of the finest facilities and programs in health, fitness, hydrotherapy, beauty and stress management. Meanwhile, the golfer in the group is welcome to play a round of golf at either the Moon Spa & Golf Club, which is home to the only Jack Nicklaus Signature golf course in Cancun, or at the Playacar Spa & Golf Club, which is recognized as one of the top courses in the world and is as challenging as it is beautiful.

Guests that qualify for the package and are staying at Cozumel Palace will receive         unlimited tours to Tulum, Coba, Chankanaab and the Glass Bottom Boat tour (per person); a $50voucher (per adult) toward the purchase of a round of golf at the Playacar Spa & Golf Club or the Moon Spa & Golf Club; $15 voucher (per adult) toward a spa treatment or massage at the Playacar Spa & Golf Club, Aventura Spa Palace, or the Moon Spa & Golf Club; and a $25 voucher (per room) toward a car rental through Travesias Turisticas.

 Through the “Palace Passport” package offered at Cozumel Palace, guests can experience the ancient wonder of Chankanaab National Park, which is considered one of the most exceptional eco-systems in the world. This beautiful, land-locked pool, which is connected to the Caribbean Sea through an underground tunnel, is a natural aquarium that is teeming with sea life. Guests are welcomed to climb aboard a classic glass-bottom boat and experience the spectacular coral reefs and beautiful tropical fish in the famous Palancar Reef.

Guests that qualify for the package and are staying at the new Vallarta Palace, which is Palace’s first property on Mexico’s Pacific coastline, will receive unlimited tours to Rancho Pancho (Horseback riding tour), Channel Tour, City tour or the romantic Sunset Cruise (per person); a $25 voucher (per adult) toward the purchase of a round of golf at Flamingos Golf Club, Marina Vallarta Club de Golf or Vista Vallarta Club de Golf; and a 

$25 voucher (per room) toward a car rental through Travesias Turisticas.

 The Palace Passport package at Vallarta Palace offers visitors the opportunity to experience a leisurely boat ride through the famous water channels located throughout Nuevo Vallarta and appreciate the lush mangroves, beautiful tropical birds, and exotic iguanas. In addition, guests in search of a little more adventure, can try their hand at an exciting horseback ride where they can visit a typical ranch in Jarretaderas, the nearest town to Nuevo Vallarta, ride along the Ameca River that divides the states of Nayarit and Jalisco and see one of the most visited churches, La Iglesia de la Sagrada Familia – The Church of the Sacred Family.

Rates range from $300 - $500 per room, depending upon season and specific resort, the Palace Passport promotion is available only to the US, Canada, and Mexico markets through December 23, 2007. Other restrictions may apply.

Palace Resorts, offers nine all-inclusive properties throughout Cancún, the Riviera Maya, Nuevo Vallarta and Cozumel. At each of the Palace Resorts, guests are provided with luxurious, yet affordable, accommodations, fine cuisine, 24-hour room service, top shelf drinks, sensational entertainment, non-motorized water sports and unlimited select tours. Palace Resorts’ unparalleled level of service and comfort found at each property makes them a leader in providing world-class resort vacations in Mexico. For more information, guests may call (800) 635-1836 or visit http://www.palaceresorts.com. 

 

Signature Spa Marks Third Full-Service Spa on Bora Bora

The Bora Bora Pearl Beach Resort & Spa is pleased to announce the official debut of the Manea Spa. This full-service spa incorporates authentic Polynesian treatments with holistic philosophies and the combination of indigenous ingredients, modern technology and nurturing touch.

Located beside a lake in the heart of a tropical garden, the 600 square meter (6,460 square foot) spa offers a total of eight treatment rooms: two single bungalows and two double massage rooms (convertible to four single treatment rooms); an open-air Vichy shower with two tables; beauty salon for manicures, pedicures and facials; two steam rooms and two saunas; an air-conditioned relaxation pavilion; and a fully-equipped, air-conditioned fitness room.

The Royale Pomare Suite, the Manea Spa’s centerpiece, is a distinctive treatment room ideal for honeymooners and couples.  Guests can enjoy a private 3 hour 20 minutes session, including a fruit and sand scrub, body rinse and jet shower, flower bath, humuhei oil massage, and a Jacuzzi bath. 

The Manea Spa is managed by Kamala and Anthony Nayeli, a husband-and-wife team from the United States, with the support of ten Polynesian massage specialists.  The spa is open daily from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., with the fitness center available from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m.   Website: www.maneaspa.com .

 

 

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                                                Travel Tours

 

 

Over 40 One-Week Europe Bike Tours Priced Below $700 Per Person,

BikeToursDirect continues its tradition of offering a wide range of quality bike tours at substantial savings by working directly with local bike tour operators in Europe.  More than 40 self-guided tours, including the Danube Bike Path and Salzburg Lakes in Austria, the Mosel and Romantic Road in Germany, Alsace in France, Lake Garda in Italy, Bohemia in the Czech Republic, the South Polish National Parks and Slovenia, are all under $700 per person with lodging, daily luggage transfers, breakfasts, route planning, tour information and a service hotline.  BikeToursDirect handles all aspects of the booking process: reservations, payments and tour operator contact, coupled with a user-friendly web site, www.BikeToursDirect.com, and guarantees their prices equal to booking directly with the European companies.

Examples include:

-- Picture Book Alsace explores the lush land of Hansel-and-Gretel villages, wonderful vineyards and the scenery of the Rhine on one side and the Vosges Mountains on the other.  Seven nights, starting at €487 ($625) per person, double, departs Sundays through October 31 with cyclists average 29 miles per day. 

-- Germany’s Romantic Road, priced at €498 ($637) for Sunday departures through September 10, is a 30-mile-per-day journey along one of Europe’s most beautiful roads -- King Ludwig II’s fairytale Neuschwanstein Castle, the former Bavarian border fortress at Schongau, Roman thermal springs in Tegelberg, medieval villages, mountain lakes against the backdrop of the Bavarian Alps, all contribute to the grandeur of the route between Imst and Donauwörth. 

-- The 33-mile per day La Dolce Vita—Verona & Lake Garda offers cyclists the opportunity to pamper the mind and mind at the same time -- fine arts, rich culture, historic palaces and blue and emerald green lakes as well as the freshest foods and classic wines of Verona, Brescia and Mantua.  Sunday departures through October 8 are priced at €444 ($568).

-- Dresden, with its superb Baroque architecture and many art treasures, and Prague, known as the City of One Hundred Spires are the bookends of Dresden to Prague, a fascinating trip that takes in the gardens of Bohemia, the wine village of Melnik, the former Jewish Ghetto of Terezin and the towering Elbe Sandstone Massif between Bad Schandau and Decin.  Priced from €459 ($587) to €509 ($651), the eight-night tour departs daily, year-round.

BikeToursDirect, the one-stop resource for European bike tours, offers more than 160 bicycle tours in 27 countries.  Travelers can select tours based on price, dates, countries, level of difficulty, type of tour and other preferences as well as make reservations at www.BikeToursDirect.com; tel. (877) 462-2423 or (423) 756-8907; email: info@biketoursdirect.com. 

 

Austin-Lehman Adventures Partners with Journey Mexico

The premier adventure company focusing on the Americas from Alaska to the Galapagos announces a new partnership with Journey Mexico to expand offerings in Mexico. Austin-Lehman Adventures (ALA) and Journey Mexico, the leading active adventure ground tour operator in Mexico, now represent three adventure opportunities in Mexico: Oaxaca, Baja, and Yucatan. The partnership plans to launch its fourth Mexican destination, Chiapas, in winter 2007. “Our new partnership with Journey Mexico assures that we can offer our usual high-touch, high-end services and tour amenities to remote, spectacular and off-the-tourist-trail destinations in Mexico,” says Dan Austin, co-founder and director of operations of Austin-Lehman Adventures. “Also, by positioning trips in Mexico we can lengthen our season and cater to our many guests who like to travel during ‘non-peak’ vacation times, notes Austin.”

The trips to Mexico scheduled in fall / winter of 2006 and 2007 are:  

-- Oaxaca: 8 days / 7 nights – Departing October 30 & December 23 http://www.austinlehman.com/ALmain.php?Option=Detail&TripID=68    

-- Baja: 7 days / 6 nights – Departing October 8, 22; November 5, 19; and December 3, 17, 30 (Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr 2007 dates to be announced)

http://www.austinlehman.com/ALmain.php?Option=Detail&TripID=92

-- Yucatan: 9 days / 8 nights – Departing September 2, 23; October 7, 28; November 18; and December 2, 22  (Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr 2007 dates to be announced)

http://www.austinlehman.com/ALmain.php?Option=Detail&TripID=81

-- Chiapas: 9 days /8 nights (2007 dates to be announced)

For 14 years Journey Mexico has specialized in active travel in Mexico, emphasizing up-close wildlife encounters, in-depth exploration of historical and archeological sites, visits to local craft markets and rural villages, and one-of-a-kind, creative itineraries. Like Austin-Lehman Adventures, Journey Mexico specializes in small group travel to minimize the impact on the places they explore while maximizing the interaction with local communities and cultures. They are committed to helping protect the pristine places they visit and helping indigenous populations strengthen the economy of their villages and towns through eco-tourism. Travelers can expect authentic Mexican experiences and meaningful encounters with the locals while experiencing off-the-beaten-path sights unavailable to larger groups.

Austin reflects that while Mexico is sought out for its sun and beaches, it is often overlooked by adventure travelers who will be astonished to discover ruins and pyramids deep in southern jungles that rival those of Africa and Asia, forgotten villages where skilled artisans produce elaborate textiles, pottery and wood carvings, and, in Baja, marine habitats that host more endemic species than any other body of water in the world.

ALA specializes in multi-sport tours throughout the Americas and has been doing so since 1984.  For information on ALA’s 35 unique luxury, family and active adventure travel vacations please ask for a free, 44-page, four-color catalog by calling toll-free 1.800.575.1540, or e-mail info@austinlehman.com or log onto www.austinlehman.com.

 

UNESCO World Heritage Sites Key Elements Of Asia Transpacific Journeys

Three countries in the Asia/Pacific region, China, India and Australia, are exceptionally rich in areas of great cultural and natural significance. Asia Transpacific Journeys (ATJ) visits these iconic locales, recognized today as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, as others might tick off wild animals while on safari. “Our Small Group Trips and Custom Journeys purposefully include as many of these irreplaceable cultural and natural gems as time permits,” says Marilyn Downing Staff, CEO. “We agree with UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization) that these sites are indeed sources of life and inspiration.”

China weighs in with a whopping 31 UNESCO sites. A Small Group Trip departing October 4 will visit six sites including the Mausoleum of the First Qin Emperor (Terracotta Warriors), Beijing's Temple of Heaven, Summer Palace and the Great Wall.  The 20-day China Beyond The Wall trip for up to 16 guests is from $6,995 per person including expert tour leadership, insurance and superb accommodations. Additional sites can be included on Custom Journeys.

India is home to 26 UNESCO sites. The October 22, 2006 and January 17, 2007 Small Group departures to Pushkar and Jaisalmer respectively feature five sites, including Fatehpur Sikri, Delhi's mosques, the Agra Fort and, of course, the wondrous Taj Mahal. The 17-day journeys for up to 16 guests are from $6,795 per person including expert tour leadership, insurance and overnights in a restored maharaja’s palace. Additional sites can be included on Custom Journeys.

Australia features 16 UNESCO sites, many of which are chosen for their outstanding natural beauty and the diversity of species they host. These include the Great Barrier Reef, Kakadu National Park and Queensland's Wet Tropics when visiting on a Custom Journey.  ATJ’s private Custom Journeys depart on dates convenient to the client. Costs start from $200 per person per day/double for beyond-the-ordinary accommodations, meals, transport and a private guide.

Included in the per person rate on all Small Group Trips are accommodations, nearly all meals, transfers, visa fees, tips, entrance fees, medical and emergency insurance and a comprehensive pre-departure packet. ATJ can also arrange Custom Journeys to these and other Asian destinations. ATJ can also arrange international air through its in-house air department.

Asia Transpacific Journeys has been crafting customized private journeys and small group trips to the Asia/Pacific region since 1987. Says CEO Downing Staff: “Our intimate, in-depth style promotes cross-cultural understanding, encourages environmental sustainability, and fulfills long-held personal dreams.” She notes that ATJ’S regional expertise also makes ATJ the operator of choice for dozens of America’s most demanding universities and museums.

For 2006 ATJ’s ever-expanding itineraries of 18 Small Group trips and Custom Journeys encompasses 20 countries in North Asia, South Asia, SE Asia and the Pacific. Some trips also support global conservation and cultural preservation. ATJ’s own non-profit Asia Transpacific Foundation, established in 1998, works with rural Asian communities to provide clean drinking water through locally made ceramic water filters.

For more information please see www.asiatranspacific.com  or call toll free 800-642-2742.

 

Adventure Collection Members Offer Unforgettable Summer Travel Experiences

Adventure Collection members offer a variety of exciting travel experiences this summer. Adventure Collection, http://www.adventurecollection.com, is a consortium of 11 leading independent active travel companies with over 300 years of combined experience and specializes in experimental travel, intimately connecting guests to the places, wildlife and cultures they visit. Experiences include:

-- Buddy Bombard's Europe: Tuscany & the Splendor of Siena. The Palio Festival in Siena dates back to medieval times, featuring a horse race representing 17 city wards, held July 2nd & August 16th. After Palio, guests enjoy daily morning balloon adventures overlooking the Tuscan countryside, villages, and architecture of San Gimignano. Features daily lunches with locals in private ancestral castles.

-- Bushtracks: South African Safari. Jointly offered by Lindblad and Bushtracks is this memorable Southern African safari. Experience up-close game viewing and various activities in small groups led by naturalist guides. This 12-day/11-night safari starts July 28th in Cape Town and visits parks and game reserves in Okavango Delta, Botswana.

-- Lindblad Expeditions: South Pacific Exploration. Discover places where the pace of life is so calm that it causes us to dream of living gentler lives with a team of explorers from Lindblad Expeditions and National Geographic. Share the marine world onboard a new custom-built, glass-bottom boat. Programs run June 22 to July 11, 2006.

-- Natural Habitat Adventures: Discover America's National Parks. Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks offer animal encounters and scenic grandeur unsurpassed within the lower 48 states. On this seven-day Adventure, a maximum of nine guests experience one of the natural wonders of North America under the guidance of the region's premiere naturalist guides.

-- NOLS: Backpacking. NOLS is offering the first authentic lightweight backpacking course in the world of outdoor education from August 6 to19, 2006. In Wyoming's remotest, wildest ranges, guests develop outdoor skills and the traditional NOLS backpacking curriculum. Participants leave this course with the necessary knowledge to plan and execute their own lightweight adventures.

-- O.A.R.S.: White Water Rafting. Join O.A.R.S. for a first-class rafting adventure down the Wild and Scenic Middle Fork of Salmon River, Idaho. With 35+ years of experience, O.A.R.S. takes pride in preparing exquisite wilderness cuisine, providing only the very best camping and expedition equipment. Experience this six-day escape in an oar raft, paddle raft, inflatable kayak or classic rigid dory.

For in-depth details for adventure trips, visit http://www.adventurecollection.com/summer2006.

 

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Travel Warnings & Information

 

Warnings and Advice covering both travel and health issues in countries can be found at the Department of State homesite at http://travel.state.gov/travel/travel_1744.htm. 

 

Travel Warnings are issued when the State Department recommends that Americans avoid a certain country. The countries currently listed can be found at http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/tw/tw_1764.html.

 

The State Department issues Public Announcements to disseminate information quickly about terrorist threats and other relatively short-term conditions that pose significant risks or disruptions to Americans. The current Public Announcements are listed at

http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/pa/pa_1766.html.

 

Information on countries can be found in the Consular section of the DOS website at

http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/cis/cis_1765.html.

 

Information on Avian Flu can be found at http://travel.state.gov/travel/tips/health/health_1181.html.

 

Additional information can be found on the Central Intelligence Agency’s World Fact Book at www.odci.gov/cia/publications  or the website of the Overseas Security Advisory Council, a public private partnership maintained by the US Bureau of Diplomatic Security and the Department of State at www.dis-osac.org.

 

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                                    Cities & Culture

 

 

 

Bad Kissingen

 

Kissinger Sommer

June 16 to July 16, 2006

 

Each year, the month-long Kissinger Sommer draws famous stars and new artists flock to perform in Bad Kissingen in the Franconian region of northern Bavaria. World famous performers such as Cecilia Bartoli as well as the BBC Symphonic Orchestra, Symphonic Orchestra of Radio Bavaria, Czech Republican Philharmonic, the Vienna Symphonic Orchestra, the pianists Lang Lang, Rudolph Buchbinder, Andras Schiff, Arcadi Volodos, Grigory Sokolov and the cellist Steven Isserlis will also perform. Website:  www.badkissingen.de   

 

 

 

Berlin

 

Carnival of Cultures

June 2 to 5, 2006

 

For four days, this unique carnival brings together people from around the world to celebrate their cultural backgrounds at different venues in Berlin. Traditional clothes from around the world, tasty food and music from different ethnic communities create an international atmosphere. More information at www.karneval-berlin.de .

 

Deutsche Guggenheim

Art of Tomorrow

To August 10, 2006

 

Following its presentation in New York, Murnau and Munich, Art of Tomorrow—the first exhibition dedicated to the entire career of Hilla Rebay—opens at the Deutsche Guggenheim. In 1939, the German-born artist Hilla Rebay (1890–1967) was a cofounder of the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum—originally named the Museum of Non-Objective Painting— as well as its first curator and director.

The exhibition comprises a significant selection of Rebay’s works on paper and non-objective paintings and includes the formal portrait of Solomon R. Guggenheim (1861–1949) that first brought the artist and the patron together. Also included are key works by colleagues as Hans Arp, Rudolf Bauer, Vasily Kandinsky, Paul Klee, Fernand Leger, Laszlo Moholy-Nagy, Otto Nebel, Ben Nicholson, and Kurt Schwitters. Such works were acquired by Rebay and Guggenheim between 1929 and 1939 and shown in the Art of Tomorrow’s  first landmark exhibition of the Museum of Non-Objective Painting in New York in 1939. Website: http://www.deutsche-guggenheim.de

 

 

 

 

 

Brussels

 

Bruegel Imagined and Bruegel In Prints

To August 26, 2006

Pieter Bruegel the Elder is one of Belgium’s most famous sons, but few curators can afford to gather his works, scattered in collections around the world. In a creative solution to this quandary, the Royal Library in Brussels has decided to exhibit life-sized reproductions of all of his paintings, as well as an array of prints based on his drawings. These exhibitions are part of a four-month festival that includes walking tours, concerts and lectures at nearby venues.

The Royal Library, Mont des Arts. Tel: +32 (0)2 519 5398. Open: Mon-Sat, 10am-5pm.

Website: http://www.bruegel06.be  

 

 

 

Copenhagen

 

Roskilde Festival

June 29 to July 2, 2006.

Northern Europe's biggest festival with almost 100.000 party people from all over the world. The scene is set for four fabulous days with rock, pop, soul, R & B, electronic and hip hop. The Festival is located at Roskilde, 23 miles west of Copenhagen.

For more information, visit http://www.roskilde-festival.dk.

 

 

 

Heidelberg, Germany

 

Heidelberg Castle Festival

The Student Prince

June 24 to August 13

 

The ancient ruins of the Heidelberg Castle offer every summer a perfect setting for the world famous Castle Festival. In 2006 the new staging of Sigmund Romberg´s classic Heidelberg operetta "The Student Prince” and the dramatic version of "Des Knaben Wunderhorn” will be the highlights of the festival. For more information go to www.cvb-heidelberg.de.

 

 

 

Helsinki

 

Helsinki Festival

August 18 to September 3, 2006

 

The Helsinki Festival is the most diverse event in the Finnish cultural calendar. The Festival's predecessor was Sibelius Weeks (1951-1965) festival, which concentrated in Sibelius' music. The Helsinki Festival was founded in 1968, and it aims to display Finnish and international performing and creative arts, while featuring artists, ensembles and exhibitions of the highest level. Website: http://www.helsinginjuhlaviikot.fi /

 

 

 

 

 

Madrid

 

Museo Nacional del Prado

Museo Centro de Arte Reina Sofía

Picasso: Tradition and Avant-garde

June 6 through September 3, 2006

 

Beginning June 6, two of the country’s leading museums in Madrid are mounting a major retrospective of the work of “Spain’s most important 20th century artist, Pablo Picasso. Timed to coincide with the 25th anniversary of the return of Guernica to Spain and the 125th anniversary of the artist’s birth – more than fifty masterpieces by Pablo Picasso – many never before exhibited in Spain – will be on view at the museums. Every stage of Picasso’s career will be represented, allowing for an overview of the most important phases from the Blue and Pink Periods to Cubism and Surrealism and the difficult years between the Spanish Civil War and World War continuing up to the fertile last decades.

Starting at the Prado’s Central Gallery, the exhibition will present a dialogue between Picasso and the past with La Vie (1902) from the Cleveland Museum of Art; Boy Leading a Horse (1906) from New York’s Museum of Modern Art (MoMA); Bread and Fruit Dish with Fruit on a Table (1908-1909) and L’Aficionado (1912) from Basel’s Kunstmuseum; Self-portrait with Palette (1906) and Three Musicians (1942) from the Philadelphia Museum of Art; The Pan Pipes (1923) from the Musée Picasso, Paris; L’Aubade (1942) from Centre Georges Pompidou, Paris, and Las Meninas (1957) from Barcelona’s Museu Picasso.     

Offering a different perspective, the Reina Sofía’s exhibition focuses on Guernica and its legacy emphasizing the artist’s response to modern warfare including: The Charnel House (1945) from MoMA and Massacre in Korea (1951) from the Musée Picasso, Paris.  Reinforcing the condemnation of violence, Goya’s The Shooting of the Third of May will be shown alongside Guernica offering an inimitable image of the disasters of war. As the director of the Prado during the Spanish Civil War, Picasso refused to have Guernica displayed in Spain during Franco’s time.  In 1981 the Museum of Modern Art returned the work to the Prado and subsequently the painting was given to the Reina Sofía where it can be viewed today. 

The Prado Museum is located on Paseo del Prado and is open daily, except Mondays, from 9 AM to 8 PM.  Tickets are about $7.65 or 6 euros, except Sundays, when it is free. Website: www.museoprado.es  

The Reina Sofía’s main building, at Calle Santa Isabel, 52, is open six days a week, Mondays to Saturdays from 10 AM to 9 PM and Sundays from 10 AM to 2:30 PM. (Closed Tuesdays.)  A ticket costs about $7.65 or 6 euros and admission is free on Saturdays from 2:30 PM to 9 PM and on Sundays from 10 AM to 2:30 PM. Children under 18 and seniors over 65 are admitted free to both museums. Website: www.museoreinasofia.es

Note: Malaga and Barcelona are also commemorating Picasso with year-long programs of exhibitions, operas, ballets, special lectures, workshops and activities for children and families running through February 2007. Website:  www.museupicasso.bcn.es  

The Museo Picasso Málaga will present three shows in honor of that city’s most famous native son along with film screenings and art workshops for children and Barcelona will host three exhibitions, three ballets and several concerts to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the artist’s return to that city. Website: www.museopicassomalaga.org  

 

 

 

 

New York

 

American Museum of Natural History

Yellowstone to Yukon

July 15 to January 15, 2007

 

Yellowstone to Yukon is an enthralling exhibition of over 40 full-color photographs, that showcases the diverse flora, fauna, and geology of the North American West—from Wyoming to the Yukon Territory—with lush images of breathtaking landscapes and spectacular wildlife. These photographs take viewers on an unrestricted journey through the wilderness as well as the rapidly developing areas of the Yellowstone to Yukon region to explore an ambitious corridor initiative, which connects habitats so that wide-ranging animals can travel unimpeded and co-exist with human structures and development. The Yellowstone to Yukon corridor is one of the few areas in North America where most of the animals native to the region are still found, including cutthroat trout, bison, grizzly bears, trumpeter swans, bighorn sheep, caribou, lynx, wolves, and wolverines.

Yellowstone to Yukon is free with suggested Museum admission. Website: www.amnh.org  

 

Cooper Hewitt National Design Museum

Frederic Church, Winslow Homer & Thomas Moran: Tourism and the American Landscape

Through October 22, 2006

 

 The show explores the promotion of scenic tourism in nineteenth-century America through Cooper-Hewitt’s extraordinary collections of oil paintings, drawings, and watercolors by these artists. The exhibition presents the Museum’s American landscape collection at Cooper-Hewitt for the first time in more than fifteen years and is the premiere showing of many of its Homer oil paintings.

Cooper Hewitt National Design Museum is at 2 East 91 Street at Fifth Avenue. Website: www.cooperhewitt.org  

 

Frick Museum

Jean-Etienne Liotard (1702-1789): Swiss Master

June 13 through September 17, 2006

Portrait of Archduchess Marie Antoinette of Austria, Future Queen of France, at Age 7

 

The Frick continues to add to its holdings, and the 1997 gift of a painting has inspired a major 2006 exhibition on the artist Jean-Étienne Liotard (1702-1789). This presentation offers the public a singular opportunity to become better acquainted with one of the most original and engaging artists of eighteenth-century Europe, who enjoyed an international reputation in his day, often painting portraits of monarchs and their children in London, Vienna, Parma, and Amsterdam. Indeed, the Frick serves as the only venue for this monographic survey of an artist who is little known even among specialists today and is rarely seen outside of collections in Geneva.

This presentation offers the public a singular opportunity to become better acquainted with one of the most original and engaging artists of eighteenth-century Europe, who enjoyed an international reputation in his day, often painting portraits of monarchs and their children in London, Vienna, Parma, and Amsterdam. Indeed, the Frick serves as the only venue for this monographic survey of an artist who is little known even among specialists today and is rarely seen outside of collections in Geneva.

The Frick Museum is located at 1 East 70 Street at Fifth Avenue. Website: www.frick.org  

 

Metropolitan Museum of Art

Girodet: Romantic Rebel

May 24 to August 27, 2006

 

This is the first American retrospective devoted to A. L. Girodet-Trioson (1767–1824), a favored but rebellious pupil of Jacques-Louis David. Girodet’s idiosyncratic style fuses David’s Neoclassical ideal with his own prescient Romantic vision. A selection of approximately 100 paintings and works on paper reflects his originality and the diversity of his works, from mythological subjects to portraits and representations of Napoleon’s military triumphs.

The Met Museum is located on Fifth Avenue at East 82 Street. Website: metmuseum.org

 

Museum of Modern Art/Film & Media Gallery

Douglas Gordon: Timeline

June 11–September 4, 2006

In his most well-known works, Scottish artist Douglas Gordon (b. 1966) addresses the familiarity and popularity of moving pictures by manipulating, reframing, and superimposing them to alter viewers’ perceptions. His works provoke feelings of anxiety, recognition, and amnesia with respect to the circumstances of the reception of media today. This retrospective of Gordon’s work presents thirteen significant works by the artist, including 24 Hour Psycho (1993), Between Darkness and Light (After William Blake) (1997), and Play Dead; Real Time (2003). By forcing new encounters with the familiar and confrontations with the willfully forgotten, Gordon exposes the distance between our dimmed, distorted memories and, perhaps, the truth—emphatically demonstrating that what he sculpts is not only media but time itself.

MoMA is located on West 53 Street between Fifth and Avenue of the Americas. Website: www.moma.org

 

 

 

 

San Francisco

 

Metreon Exhibition Center

Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition

June 10 to January 2007

 

RMS Titanic, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Premier Exhibitions, Inc. will produce the Titanic artifact show in the new Exhibition Center at the Metreon. Appearing for the first time in San Francisco, this exhibition, already seen by more than sixteen million visitors, will present a vast collection of more than 300 artifacts dramatically rescued from the ocean floor, along with stunning room re-creations including the Grand Staircase, as well as the largest piece of the Titanic ever recovered, a 15-ton portion of Titanic's hull.

RMS Titanic, Inc. a wholly owned subsidiary of Premier Exhibitions, Inc. is the only company permitted by law to recover objects from the wreck of the Titanic. The Company was granted Salvor-in-possession rights to the wreck of the Titanic by a United States federal court in 1994 and has conducted seven research and recovery expeditions to the Titanic's debris field and recovered approximately 5,500 artifacts.

 

 

Seville, Spain

 

Real Alcázar

Ibn Khaldun, the Mediterranean in the 14th Century: Rise and Fall of Empires

Through September 30

 

The exhibition commemorates the 600th anniversary of the death of history’s most important – but little known – Muslim intellectual and provides information on the traumatic 14th century in Europe. Presented in one of Spain’s most beautiful buildings, the Real Alcazar, almost 300 works are on display including a renowned altarpiece, an astrolabe, a Sultan’s helmet, a priory chair, a Koran lectern, a Moorish king’s sword, centuries-old manuscripts, bejewelled goblets and gold coins, which were gathered from museums and libraries throughout Europe and the Middle East. Treasures from Belgium, Denmark, France, Greece, Portugal, Syria, Turkey and the UK will be on display during the four and a half month show.

The exhibit deals with several traumatic events that shook the 14th century: the 100 Years War which ravished Europe; the Black Plague of the years 1348-50, “the deadliest disaster in history,” according to many historians, and the struggles for the consolidation of the Spanish kingdoms of the Iberian Peninsula. The 14th century also saw a wave of palace intrigues which brought continuous struggles and successive changes of government to both the Muslim-Maghreb world and to al-Andalus – the Arabic name the Muslims gave to the Iberian Peninsula.

Considered the founder of modern historiography, Ibn Khaldun was one of the great Muslim intellectuals.  Of Andalusi descent, he spent part of his life in al-Andalus, living at the court of the Nasrid King Muhammad V, where he was named ambassador to the court of Pedro I the Cruel in Seville. A social historian and celebrated author of the Muqqadim, the Introduction to Universal History, Khaldun was concerned with the logic of empires, their expansion and decline, and his reflections on the formation of states are considered seminal. 

In the “Rise and Fall of Empires,” the curators set out to examine the political, economic and social relationships between West and East, between Europe and the Arab-Maghreb world. Set in and around the Mediterranean, European and Muslim states are represented through their cultures and conflicts, their commercial relations and economic organizations as well as through the artistic legacy which marked this decisive period in history. Through the analytical work of Ibn Khaldun, visitors will learn of the contributions of al-Andalus and the historic role Seville played as an important river port and crossroads in Spain as seen against the events of the 14th century: the rise of the Italian maritime republics of Genoa and Venice, the expansion of the Ottoman Empire and the continued importance of the Egyptian cities of Alexandria and Cairo as major commercial centers. During this period the cultural exchange between the Christian, Muslim and Jewish cultures was at the root of synthesis and experimentation that would go to form the foundations of the Renaissance, alongside a series of scientific advances without precedent in previous centuries.  Seville was a melting pot for different artistic influences such as the popular Gothic-Mudejar style and became one of the main European centers for book-printing.

Staging the exhibition in the beautiful Mudejar palace of the Real Alcázar – Seville’s main focal point, its most outstanding historic complex and the oldest royal palace still used by a European monarch – enhances the works and is particularly appropriate. Ibn Khaldun visited Pedro I the Cruel there between 1363 and 1365.  For this once-in-a-lifetime exhibition, the Real Alcázar will offer special evening viewing hours so visitors can also walk through the spectacular gardens, fountains, pavilions and terraces of the royal residence by moonlight.  

Viewing hours at the Real Alcázar are from 9:30 AM to 8 PM Tuesdays to Saturdays and Sundays and holidays from 9:30 AM to 6 PM.  Special evening viewings are Mondays to Saturdays from 8 PM to midnight and Sundays and holidays from 6 PM to Midnight.  Tickets are about $8.90 or 7 euros for adults and are available at the Real Alcazar and Corte Ingles department stores. Go to: www.legadoandalusi.es or www.elcorteingles.es . Seniors over 65 and children under 12 are admitted free of charge.

The dedicated web site www.ibnjaldun.es  has extensive background in English about the exhibition, the history of the 14th century and its notable figures. Spain’s tourism website: www.spain.info

 

 

 

Singapore

 

Hua Song Museum

Ongoing exhibit

 

Singapore’s modern history is largely the story of the Chinese who came here to seek their fortune. Three out of four locals are of Chinese ethnicity. This new museum traces Chinese migration to countries around the world. Named Hua Song, which translates as “in praise of the Chinese”, the museum opened the doors to its eight exhibition halls on March 11th. Its purpose is to explain the influence of the Chinese diaspora on modern society.

Hua Song is located at Haw Par Villa, 262 Pasir Panjang Rd, Singapore 118628. Open: Tues-Sun noon-7pm. Entrance: S$8.40. Website: http://www.huasong.org 

 

 

Sydney

 

Sydney Film Festival

June 9 to 25, 2006

 

Now in its 53rd year, this festival of world presents 201 films. The festival opens with “Ten Canoes”, a much-hyped Australian film directed by Rolf de Heer. Shot against the spectacular scenery of Arnhem Land, in the Northern Territory, the film is set in the time before whites settled in Australia, and is the first feature filmed entirely in an aboriginal language. The festival closes with “Thank You for Smoking”, an American satire directed by Jason Reitman, based on a novel by Christopher Buckley. The rest of the schedule includes documentaries and short films (including 25 finalists in the Dendy Awards for Australian Short Films), and cinema highlights from Latin America, Denmark, Hong Kong and the Middle East.

The festival will be held at the State Theatre, Market St; Dendy Opera Quays Cinema, East Circular Quay; George Street Cinemas, George Street. Bookings: +61 (0)2 8272 2777. Website: http://www.sydneyfilmfestival.org /

 

National Gallery of Australia

Constable: Impressions Of Land, Sea And Sky

To June 12, 2006

 

This splendid exhibition presents more than 100 paintings, prints and drawings by John Constable, a 19th-century English landscape artist. With works loaned from Britain, France and America, it shows how Constable anticipated the French Impressionists with his expressive use of light and shade. Some of the artist’s best-known paintings are here, including “A boat passing the lock” (1826) and “Salisbury Cathedral from the Bishop’s Grounds” (1823).

The National Gallery of Australia is located at Parkes Place, Parkes, Canberra. Tel: +61 (0)2 6240 6411. Open: daily, 10am-5pm. Entry: A$15. Website: http://www.nga.gov.au/Home/index.cfm

 

 

 

Tokyo

 

Pola Museum

Picasso: Five Themes

To September 17, 2006

 

High up in the mountains near Hakone, the Pola Museum is offering a magnificent Picasso feast. This exhibition of 33 pieces from the gallery's permanent collection includes works from the artist's Blue and Cubist periods, and proceeds through sections entitled “Picasso and Braque: Still Life”, “Sacred Love and Profane Love” and “Picasso and the Spanish Tradition”. There are also some books Picasso illustrated, and works by Cézanne and Braque.

The Pola is a 90-minute trek from Tokyo—a trip involving trains and a shuttle bus—but no museum in the capital rivals its setting or Picasso trove. Pola Museum of Art, Kozukayama 1285, Sengoku-hara, Hakone-machi, Japan 250-0631. Tel: + 81 (0)460 4 2111. Open: daily, 9am-5pm. Entry: ¥1,800. Take the slow bullet train to Odawarao, then the Hakone Tozan Railway to Gora, then the shuttle bus. Website: http://www.polamuseum.or.jp

 

 

 

Turks & Caicos /Providenciales,

 

Turks & Caicos Music And Cultural Festival

July 31 to August 7, 2006

 

The stage is set for the Third Annual Turks and Caicos Music and Cultural Festival this summer in Providenciales. A very impressive list of local and international artists is lined up to perform at the Turtle Cove Marina. Stars include Grammy-nominated saxophonist Najee; reggae and soca group Stanley Roots; 2004 American Idol winner Fantasia; Grammy-award winning gospel singer Yolanda Adams; internationally acclaimed reggae band Steel Pulse; the cool reggae vibes of T.O.K. from Jamaica, and Grammy-award winning hip-hop artist Ludacris.

For more information on the festival or the Turks and Caicos Islands, visit

www.turksandcaicostourism.com . Tickets for the shows are available at www.ticketweb.com.