Wednesday, August 19, 2009
New York City Hotel Remarketer Tax Set to Begin Sept. 1
The National Tour Association and other trade associations have been in contact with New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg to urge the elimination of the new tax New York City enacted on remarketers of hotel rooms, which is scheduled for implementation Sept. 1. The remarketer tax, enacted in late June as an amendment to New York’s Hotel Occupancy Tax, requires that anyone who resells a New York hotel room remit a tax based on the full amount paid by the customer, including any service fees or charges. A “remarketer” is defined to mean “any person, excluding the [hotel] operator, having any right, access, ability or authority, through an Internet transaction or any other means whatsoever, to offer, reserve, book, arrange for, remarket, distribute, broker, resell or facilitate the transfer of rooms.” To gauge the potential impact of the remarketer tax on tour operators currently booking hotel room to New York City, a brief survey will be sent to tour operators. NTA is monitoring this situation closely and will report any new developments on NTA Online. For more information, visit www.ntaonline.com.
Tuesday, August 18, 2009
Starwood Opens Aloft Baltimore-Washington Airport
Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. and its new lifestyle brand, Aloft Hotels, announced the opening of Aloft Baltimore-Washington International Airport in Linthicum, Md., just 15 minutes from Baltimore’s Inner Harbor. Owned by The Buccini/Pollin Group and managed by PM Hospitality Strategies, Inc., Aloft Baltimore-Washington International Airport introduces jet-setting style at a steal with 155 spacious, loft-like rooms, accessible technology and a hip, social atmosphere. A Vision of W Hotels, Aloft is a new destination sensation featuring loft-inspired design, accessible technology and a stylish urban attitude. Guest rooms feature the brand’s signature nine-foot ceilings, oversized windows and the ultra-comfortable bed, as well as roomy walk-in showers and amenities created by Bliss Spa. Each Aloft room is also a combination high-tech office and entertainment center equipped with complimentary wireless internet access and a one-stop connectivity solution for multiple electronic gadgetry all linked to a 42-inch flat-panel, HDTV-ready television. Aloft offers atmospheric public spaces where guests can mix and mingle, read the paper, work on laptops, play a game of pool or grab a drink with friends at the re:mix communal lobby area and w xyz bar. The re:charge fitness center and splash pool give travelers options to de-stress and re-energize, while Re:fuel by Aloft offers sweet, savory and healthy food, snacks and beverages, 24-hours a day. For more information, call Supreme Clientele Travel at 407-413-9578
Disney Cruise Line Offers More Land Add-Ons
Disney Cruise Line in 2010 is offering a wide selection of add-on options to complement their cruise, including resort stays and theme park tickets that can all be booked under one reservation. For all cruise itineraries originating from Port Canaveral, including seven-night cruises on the Disney Magic, guests can purchase pre- or post-cruise stays at 18 Walt Disney World Resort hotels, for any length of stay. They also can add on a one- to five-day “Magic Your Way Ticket” with “Park Hopper Option,” with a one-night minimum Walt Disney World resort stay. Guests staying at a Walt Disney World Resort hotel prior to their cruise can check in for their cruise at select hotels, with a two-night minimum resort stay. For more information, call Supreme Clientele Travel at 407-413-9578
Oklahoma's Cherokee Nation Develops Cultural Tourism Program
Striking a balance between historical reality and cultural integrity,
Cherokee Nation set out to create a cultural tourism program with
authentic perspective and experiences. The Cherokee Nation Cultural
Tourism Department launched its quest in 2007 by conducting an
extensive research study that resulted in the completion of a
strategic concept plan in May 2008. The strategic concept plan led to
the formal introduction of the Cherokee Nation Cultural Tourism
program in January 2009. The foundation of the program rests in its
cultural, historical, natural and recreational resources of the
Cherokee Nation, which includes the 14-county area located in
northeastern Oklahoma that spans 7,000 square miles. The Cherokee
Nation is home to more than 149,000 Cherokee citizens.
The plan features Six Strategic Development Components: resources,
marketing, economic development, community, interpretation and site
planning. Resources identified for the cultural tourism program range
from visible and tangible sites, buildings, and cultural events and
festivals; to ecological and recreational resources; to less tangible
resources, such as hidden stories, archaeological sites, and sacred
and cultural significant places known only to a few.
Taking into consideration the six strategic development components,
the Cherokee Nation Cultural Tourism program recently unveiled four
all-new historically authentic tours including the Cherokee History
Tour, Cherokee Old Settler Tour, Civil War History Tour and Will
Rogers History Tour, with online booking functionality through its
website at www.CherokeeTourismOK.com.
“The locations and events are tremendous sources of pride to the
Cherokee people but until now there has been little, if any, effort to
create a cohesive program that presents the stories and places of the
Cherokee Nation in a compelling, educating and respectful way,” said
David Stewart, CEO of Cherokee Nation Entertainment, which manages the
Cherokee Nation Cultural Tourism Department. “The strategic plan has
assisted us in identifying the program’s strengths and weaknesses and
provided a blueprint in establishing a cultural tourism program
Cherokee Nation can be proud of and that visitors will draw wisdom and
inspiration from through their experience with the Cherokee Nation
story.”
To support the Cherokee Nation Cultural Tourism program, a new
branding and advertising campaign was introduced in June with “Osiyo”
(hello) as the main message point, which then focuses on the unique
elements of the Cherokee culture with the slogan: “Cherokees Say Hello
Like No One Else.” A strategy to focus on cultural references,
specific achievements and overcoming misperceptions are creative
elements featured in the headlines: “If You Come Expecting Smoke
Signals, Prepare To Be Surprised,” which refers to the printing of the
first bilingual newspaper in 1882; “If You Come Expecting Teepees,
Prepare To Be Surprised,” which refers to Cherokee Nation establishing
the first institute for higher learning for women west of the
Mississippi; “Now, Planning A Cherokee Tour Is As Easy As A-B-C,”
which refers to Sequoyah creating the first written Native American
language and the first written language created by someone not
literate in another language; and “Meet The Man Who Never Met A Man He
Didn’t Like,” for Oklahoma’s favorite son and Cherokee native Will
Rogers.
The advertising campaign is currently running on television, radio,
online, outdoor and transit. In addition, collateral and signage is
being distributed to supplement the branding efforts. “The all-new
cultural tourism program is a multi-faceted undertaking that
encompasses the best of the Cherokee Nation people and its rich
history and diverse communities,” said Stewart. For more information,
call 877-779-6977 or visit www.CherokeeTourismOK.com.
Cherokee Nation set out to create a cultural tourism program with
authentic perspective and experiences. The Cherokee Nation Cultural
Tourism Department launched its quest in 2007 by conducting an
extensive research study that resulted in the completion of a
strategic concept plan in May 2008. The strategic concept plan led to
the formal introduction of the Cherokee Nation Cultural Tourism
program in January 2009. The foundation of the program rests in its
cultural, historical, natural and recreational resources of the
Cherokee Nation, which includes the 14-county area located in
northeastern Oklahoma that spans 7,000 square miles. The Cherokee
Nation is home to more than 149,000 Cherokee citizens.
The plan features Six Strategic Development Components: resources,
marketing, economic development, community, interpretation and site
planning. Resources identified for the cultural tourism program range
from visible and tangible sites, buildings, and cultural events and
festivals; to ecological and recreational resources; to less tangible
resources, such as hidden stories, archaeological sites, and sacred
and cultural significant places known only to a few.
Taking into consideration the six strategic development components,
the Cherokee Nation Cultural Tourism program recently unveiled four
all-new historically authentic tours including the Cherokee History
Tour, Cherokee Old Settler Tour, Civil War History Tour and Will
Rogers History Tour, with online booking functionality through its
website at www.CherokeeTourismOK.com.
“The locations and events are tremendous sources of pride to the
Cherokee people but until now there has been little, if any, effort to
create a cohesive program that presents the stories and places of the
Cherokee Nation in a compelling, educating and respectful way,” said
David Stewart, CEO of Cherokee Nation Entertainment, which manages the
Cherokee Nation Cultural Tourism Department. “The strategic plan has
assisted us in identifying the program’s strengths and weaknesses and
provided a blueprint in establishing a cultural tourism program
Cherokee Nation can be proud of and that visitors will draw wisdom and
inspiration from through their experience with the Cherokee Nation
story.”
To support the Cherokee Nation Cultural Tourism program, a new
branding and advertising campaign was introduced in June with “Osiyo”
(hello) as the main message point, which then focuses on the unique
elements of the Cherokee culture with the slogan: “Cherokees Say Hello
Like No One Else.” A strategy to focus on cultural references,
specific achievements and overcoming misperceptions are creative
elements featured in the headlines: “If You Come Expecting Smoke
Signals, Prepare To Be Surprised,” which refers to the printing of the
first bilingual newspaper in 1882; “If You Come Expecting Teepees,
Prepare To Be Surprised,” which refers to Cherokee Nation establishing
the first institute for higher learning for women west of the
Mississippi; “Now, Planning A Cherokee Tour Is As Easy As A-B-C,”
which refers to Sequoyah creating the first written Native American
language and the first written language created by someone not
literate in another language; and “Meet The Man Who Never Met A Man He
Didn’t Like,” for Oklahoma’s favorite son and Cherokee native Will
Rogers.
The advertising campaign is currently running on television, radio,
online, outdoor and transit. In addition, collateral and signage is
being distributed to supplement the branding efforts. “The all-new
cultural tourism program is a multi-faceted undertaking that
encompasses the best of the Cherokee Nation people and its rich
history and diverse communities,” said Stewart. For more information,
call 877-779-6977 or visit www.CherokeeTourismOK.com.
Hurricane Bill Disrupts Caribbean Cruise Itineraries
As Hurricane Bill gained strength over the Caribbean, the itineraries
of two cruise ships were altered to avoid the storm. The hurricane was
heading west/northwest towards Bermuda and could pass north of the
Lesser Antilles, including the Virgin Islands, Trinidad and Tobago,
and Aruba, according to the National Hurricane Center. The storm’s
winds increased to 90 mph with higher gusts. “Some strengthening is
forecast during the next 48 hours, and Bill could become a major
hurricane by Wednesday,” according to the Hurricane Center said.
Cruise lines were watching Hurricane Bill as well as Tropical Storm
Ana, which was downgraded to a tropical depression. Carnival Cruise
Lines originally altered the itineraries of several ships, but due to
the favorable change reverted to the original itineraries for Carnival
Glory, Carnival Liberty and Carnival Victory. However, the Carnival
Freedom will now visit San Juan on Aug. 18, St. Thomas on Aug. 19 and
Tortola on Aug. 20. Princess Cruises changed the itinerary for the
Caribbean Princess. It will remain at sea on Aug. 18, visit Nassau on
Aug. 19 and Port Canaveral on Aug. 20, and will return to New York on
Aug. 22. For more information, visit www.carnival.com,
www.princesscruises.com or www.nhc.noaa.gov.
of two cruise ships were altered to avoid the storm. The hurricane was
heading west/northwest towards Bermuda and could pass north of the
Lesser Antilles, including the Virgin Islands, Trinidad and Tobago,
and Aruba, according to the National Hurricane Center. The storm’s
winds increased to 90 mph with higher gusts. “Some strengthening is
forecast during the next 48 hours, and Bill could become a major
hurricane by Wednesday,” according to the Hurricane Center said.
Cruise lines were watching Hurricane Bill as well as Tropical Storm
Ana, which was downgraded to a tropical depression. Carnival Cruise
Lines originally altered the itineraries of several ships, but due to
the favorable change reverted to the original itineraries for Carnival
Glory, Carnival Liberty and Carnival Victory. However, the Carnival
Freedom will now visit San Juan on Aug. 18, St. Thomas on Aug. 19 and
Tortola on Aug. 20. Princess Cruises changed the itinerary for the
Caribbean Princess. It will remain at sea on Aug. 18, visit Nassau on
Aug. 19 and Port Canaveral on Aug. 20, and will return to New York on
Aug. 22. For more information, visit www.carnival.com,
www.princesscruises.com or www.nhc.noaa.gov.
Friday, August 14, 2009
TSA requires booking name to match ID
The next phase of the Transportation Security Administration's Secure Flight program starts taking effect Saturday.
When booking with airlines, you may be asked for your gender and birthdate. Your name should match what's on the ID used to travel. The aim is for TSA to identify "No Fly" travelers in advance and stop misidentifications in an anti-terrorist initiative due to be fully implemented in 2010. For now, if you fly on an already-bought ticket with a name that doesn't match your ID but is close, you can clear security, the TSA says.
Thursday, August 13, 2009
JetBlue offers one month of unlimited travel for $599
JetBlue Airways is offering a $599 one-month pass for unlimited travel Wednesday in a bid to get more passengers airborne and jump-start a sluggish summer for the airline industry.
The pass, available for purchase until Aug. 21, allows holders to visit any of the airline's 56 destinations. The pass is valid between Sept. 8 and Oct. 8 this year with no blackout dates and with every available seat up for grabs.
MORE INFO: All-You-Can-Jet pass
People can book flights up to three days before they want to travel. If they cancel or change their reservations less than three days before the flight, they are subject to a $100 fee. To buy the pass, customers must enroll in JetBlue's loyalty program, TrueBlue.
Recent traffic data shows JetBlue's load factor— a measure of how full a plane is— fell 0.5% in July. Airline traffic slid last month as consumers continue to grapple with nearly double-digit unemployment and businesses pare back spending.
The New York-based carrier flies in the United States, the Caribbean and South America. The pass includes fees for domestic flights, but taxes for Puerto Rico and international flights are not included.
For more info call Supreme Clientele Travel 407-413-9578
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
Experience Latin culture in Miami's Little Havana
MIAMI — As the gateway to the Americas, Miami is home to restaurants, shops and streets that feel as though you've stepped off one continent and onto another. Shots of Cuban coffee are available almost anywhere in Miami's Little Havana, including convenience stores. In certain areas, everyone greets customers with "hola," never "hello."
Tourists might not be able to navigate Latin Miami successfully using only English, so brush up on basic Spanish before going, or take a Spanish-speaking friend. Regardless, a trip to Miami is incomplete without a nod to its Latin flavor.
Here are some essential stops in and around Little Havana:
Casa Unidos de Elian
It's the house where Elian Gonzalez stayed when the then 5-year-old Cuban boy was at the center of an international custody battle. The standoff ended when U.S. agents raided the home and seized him in 2000 and sent him back to Cuba with his father. The home has been renovated by his uncle, turned into a combination shrine and museum. Toys, photos and drawings are lined up in glass display cases.
Elian's clothes still hang in the closet, and the holes where agents kicked in the door haven't been repaired. The inner tube he came to Miami in hangs on the wall, accompanied by a sign in English and Spanish: "This is the tragedy of a nation that wants to live in freedom ... Whose fault? A tyrant." The house (2319 N.W. Second St.) is open whenever someone is home, so it's hit-or-miss since there's no public phone number. Admission is free; donations are accepted.
Domino Park
At Domino Park (S.W. Eighth Street and 15th Avenue), signs warn players not to drink, smoke or bet. The domino tables have drink-holders anyway, to make them look like the domino parks in Cuba, but they're empty. Dozens of old men wearing sunglasses and caps speak Spanish as they play under tents, interrupted by the sounds of clattering domino pieces. Watch and enjoy — but don't interrupt a game to ask questions, or you risk irritating the players.
El Titan de Bronze Cigars
Named after a Cuban general, this family-owned cigar company has been in business since 1995. At the store, almost any type of cigar is for sale, ranging from about $4.65 to $13 for the longest. Employees roll cigars in the middle of the shop (1071 S.W. Eighth St., 305-860-1412) using hand cream to soften the wrapper, and some even smoke as they roll.
El Palacio de los Jugos
One employee said El Palacio De Los Jugos (The Juice Palace) is what a Cuban market was like during the island's golden days. Always chaotic, the market (5721 W. Flagler St., 305-264-4557) sells almost any type of Cuban food, drink or produce imaginable. At the front counter, blocks of cheese and guava sit in a glass case. Someone chops pork rinds with a machete. A machine spits slices of plantains into a vat of oil. Juices, the main attraction, are $2 per cup and $7 for half a gallon. The mamey juice is the most popular, a thick juice that tastes a little like papaya or guava. But papaya and guava juices are also available, as well as pineapple, carrot, beet, and other combinations.
La Moon
This Venezuelan restaurant is popular with the post-clubbing crowd: Thursday through Saturday, it's open from 8 a.m. to 6 a.m. and until at least midnight every day except Sunday. Have an arepa con queso — cheese between two corn pancakes — or a Supermoon Perro, a hot dog with cheese, ketchup, mustard, mayonnaise, potato chip slivers, sausage, bacon and a quail egg. It can take 15 minutes during slow times just to get takeout, so beware the long wait during busy times at the restaurant (144 S.W. Eighth St., 305-860-6209).
La Carreta
Whether La Carreta has the best Cuban food in Miami is debatable. It's a citywide casual-dining chain, like the Red Lobster of Cuban food in Miami. But for cheap prices — most entrees are about $7 — La Carreta (3632 S.W. Eighth St., 305-444-7501) serves big portions of authentic food in an equally authentic atmosphere, much like the Versailles across the street, aptly described in one travel guide as offering "mucho helpings of Cuban kitsch." Brave the lunchtime crowds to watch the old-school Cuban crowd eat lunch and have cafecitos (Cuban coffees), surrounded by a loud buzz of Spanish.
Tuesday, August 11, 2009
Universal Orlando Offers Seven Nights for Price of Four
Universal Orlando unveiled a new deal under which guests can stay at one of three on-site AAA Four-Diamond hotels, including Loews Portofino Bay Hotel, Hard Rock Hotel and Loews Royal Pacific Resort and receive seven nights for the price of four starting from $1,413 for a family of four, or less than $51 per person, per night. Guests looking for shorter stays can book five nights for the price of three, starting at $1,167 for a family of four, or less than $59 per person, per night. Pricing includes hotel accommodations, unlimited theme park admission and comes with complimentary Universal Express ride access, which allows guests to skip the regular lines all day at most theme park attractions.
Guests can also stay at a hotel near Universal and receive four nights for the price of three starting from $633 for family of four -- or less than $40 per-person/per-night – including accommodations at a hotel near Universal, unlimited theme park admission and complimentary transportation to Universal’s theme parks. This package is available for booking now through Sept. 30 with travel beginning immediately and running through Dec. 26, 2009. For more information or reservations, call Supreme Clientele Travel 407-413-9578.
Monday, August 10, 2009
Outdoor adventures in and near Philadelphia
Visitors to Philadelphia need not limit their interests to Ben Franklin and the Liberty Bell. There are a host of outdoor adventures as well, from kayaking and biking in the city to a zipline tree canopy tour nearby.
For urban kayaking, several day and nighttime trips leave from the Schuylkill Banks at Walnut Street, either north to the Philadelphia Museum of Art or south to Bartram's Garden. Also within city limits, you'll find Livezey Rock, 35 feet high and 60 feet long, on the eastern slope of the Wissahickon Valley.
A 28-mile bike trail will take you from the Philadelphia Museum of Art along the Schuylkill River to Valley Forge, or you can go mountain biking in the Wissahickon Valley Park portion of Fairmount Park, where the trails around Forbidden Drive are considered suitable for first-time mountain bikers.
In nearby Montgomery County, about 30 miles from Philly, Spring Mountain Adventures offers a series of zipline and rope challenges to sweep you through the treetops. And about 40 miles from the city, camping in French Creek State Park ranges from tent sites to cabins with private bathrooms and showers, and the park also has a self-guided orienteering trail.
Sunday, August 9, 2009
SUPREME CLIENTELE TRAVEL PROVIDES NEWEST PHONE SIM CARD
SUPREME CLIENTELE TRAVEL PROVIDES NEWEST PHONE SIM CARD AT THE LOWEST CALLING RATES AND MOST COMPLETE SERVICES.
OneSIMCard Provides Individuals, Companies With Numerous Ways To Control, Manage Long Distance Cell Phone Expenses Supreme Clientele Travel is now afilliated with Long Distance Post, LLC, one of the premier distributors of prepaid mobile phones, prepaid cellular service, and international long distance calling services, introduces OneSIMCard, the most feature-packed, pre-paid international cell phone service.
Supreme Clientele Travel is now afilliated with Long Distance Post, LLC, one of the premier distributors of prepaid mobile phones, prepaid cellular service, and international long distance calling services, introduces OneSIMCard, the most feature-packed, pre-paid international cell phone service. OneSIMCard is a prepaid international SIM (Subscriber Identity Module) card that allows users to take their GSM phone overseas and make calls without incurring high roaming charges from their current wireless service provider.
(GSM is Global System for Mobile Communication, a widely used digital mobile phone standard.) OneSIMCard works in over 140 countries worldwide and offers rates that are lower than any competitive SIM card in the industry. In addition, it carries no monthly
fees and no expiration of the phone number.A small printed circuit board that is inserted in any GSM/GPRS/3G based mobile device, OneSIMCard contains subscriber details, security information and a variety of other functions such as memory storage. When a long distance call is made from or to a foreign country, OneSIMCard immediately initiates the call at the low OneSIMCard rate - up to 85% lower than conventional long distance service. New SIM Card Offers Most Complete ServicesThere are several options for utilizing the OneSIMCard product. Users can buy the card as a stand-alone product for use in any tri- or quad-band GSM phone. They can also purchase an international mobile phone with the card already inserted. Renting a phone is a perfect option for travelers going on a short trip abroad who will need the phone for less than 15 days, and who do not plan to take another trip within one year. OneSIMCard also focuses on providing global mobile services to corporate international travelers. The service provides special features that allow management of a fleet of international mobile phones. OneSIMCard Web tools allow those overseeing corporate travel expenses to not only realize substantial savings on long distance calling, but to efficiently manage the OneSIMCard account of one or hundreds of employee accounts through a variety of easy-to-access features. These include viewing or changing user's card balances; setting users' SIM card recharge options; blocking/unblocking any user's SIM card for fraud protection; reassigning cards to new users; sending instruction e-mails to users, broadcasting SMS messages to a group and more. Visit www.yourbusinesstravel.info to get your card today.
About Supreme Clientele TravelSupreme Clientele Travel delivers consumers everything they need for researching, planning, and purchasing a whole trip. Supreme Clientele Travel provides direct access to one of the broadest selections of travel products and services through its Web site. Serving many different consumer segments — from families booking a summer vacation to individuals arranging a quick weekend getaway, Supreme Clientele Travel provides travelers with the ability to research, plan, and book their comprehensive travel needs. Supreme Clientele Travel-branded Web sites feature airline tickets, hotel reservations, car rental, cruises, and many other in-destination services from a broad selection of partners.
About Long Distance Post, LLCLong Distance Post, LLC is a Massachusetts company that has served the communication needs of all 50 states since 1994. The company distributes a full range of communications services, including prepaid calling cards, dial-around international long distance, prepaid mobile and cellular service and phones, SIM cards, broadband phone service, T1 voice and data broadband services. Long Distance Post strives to make communication as efficient and inexpensive as possible for the user, whether calling across town, across the country, or across the globe. The company's newest product, OneSIMCard, is feature-packed, pre-paid international cell phone calling card offering the lowest long distance rates in the industry. Check it out Here!
Saturday, August 8, 2009
Florida Disney Packages
Supreme Clientele Travel offers many vacation packages. Call now for a quote and destination availability. No service fees! (407)413-9578
Friday, August 7, 2009
Cruise ship will be a floating hotel for the Winter Olympics
Here's an unusual lodging option for the 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver: a floating hotel.
Norwegian Cruise Line's Norwegian Star, which has been chartered by a travel company called Newwest, will be moored at the Canadian city's waterfront during the Games. Its 1,119 staterooms are available to rent starting at $350 nightly a person, double, with a three-night minimum. Rates include all meals, airport transfers, city tours, nightly entertainment and more.
Guests won't be roughing it. The ship is equipped with a spa, indoor pool and fitness center. Those who make reservations by Sept. 30 get $200 on-board credit per cabin.For more information and reservations call Supreme Clientele Travel (407)413-9578'The Cove' condemns capturing dolphins for tourist 'encounters'
As a trainer for the popular 1960s TV showFlipper, Ric O'Barry helped turned bottlenose dolphins into golden retrievers of the deep and a lucrative draw for tourists from Orlando to Osaka, Japan.
But the flamboyant Miami-based marine activist has been atoning for his role ever since, most recently as star of The Cove. Just released in U.S. theaters, the documentary about dolphin slaughter in a scenic Japanese fishing village won the Audience Award at this year's Sundance Film Festival — and, hopes O'Barry, will reignite the debate over interactions between dolphins and their human admirers.
Directed by National Geographic photographer Louie Psihoyos, The Cove examines the long-standing practice of culling dolphins in the small coastal town of Taiji. Though most of the animals are killed for food (which the film says is tainted by high levels of mercury), some are captured and sent to aquariums, amusement parks and interactive "dolphin encounters" worldwide.
Such encounters are particularly popular with cruisers in the Caribbean, where they have become "one of the most sought-after and hard-to-get shore excursions," says Barry Karp of ShoreTrips.com.
Among the film's goals, says O'Barry, are getting viewers to "think twice before buying a ticket" to dolphin performances or swim programs and recognize that "a dolphin's smile is nature's biggest deception." The Humane Society International, meanwhile, plugs The Cove on its own website (hsus.org) and warns viewers who participate in such programs that "you're not just having a good time — you are endorsing the practice of capturing these animals from the wild and keeping them captive."
Brooklyn's best budget restaurants
Down-home dining: Profiles of cheap-eats classics
1. DuMont Burger
314 Bedford Ave.; 718-384-6127; dumontrestaurant.com
The name of this tiny no-frills restaurant in the Williamsburg neighborhood touts the sandwiches, but it's a side dish that steals the show: the meal-in-itself DuMac & Cheese, which almost lives up to its $14 price. It arrives in an oblong crock, topped with a glorious golden crust that protects a luscious mix of radiatore pasta, bacon and cheddar and gruyere cheeses. Once you dig in, you can't stop. Those burgers are very good, though not transcendent: The $12.50 DuMont comes on a grilled brioche bun with lettuce, tomato, red onion and pickles; a $9.50 mini version substitutes toasted ciabatta for the brioche (stick with the brioche, and be alert for overdoneness). Vegetarians can munch a $10 chickpea burger on brioche.
Top treat: DuMac & Cheese, $14
2. Beer Table
427 B Seventh Ave.; 718-965-1196; beertable.com
Anytime the entries on the brew list outnumber the seats, it's a very encouraging sign. In this Park Slope neighborhood outpost, it's 24 seats vs. 25-30 beers ($9 to $106 per bottle), almost all of them rare and/or exotic and chosen with connoisseurs in mind. The upscale snacks created to accompany those brews set the bar even higher: caramelized thick-cut bacon with salted potatoes ($10); German pork sausages with frisee, potatoes and dark mustard ($16); deviled eggs ($4); and especially a slice of rustic bread spread with olive oil and ricotta cheese and topped with roasted almonds and fruits (apricots, golden plums or whatever is in season) that have been stewed with onions and lemon to give them a savory bent.
Top treat: Fruit- and ricotta-topped sesame bread, $8
3. Motorino
319 Graham Ave.; 718-599-8899; motorinopizza.com
Competition among Brooklyn pizza parlors is as fierce as anywhere in the country, and the number of serious contenders seems to grow every few months. This 10-month-old pizzeria-with-extras in Williamsburg is leading the buzz, thanks to its superior Neapolitan pizzas ($9-$16 for a 12-inch pie). Nearly a dozen perfectly blistered varieties come out of the wood-fired oven, and the top-notch toppings include house-cured meats, mozzarella di bufala or burrata cheese, and seasonal items such as ramps, sweet peas and Brussels sprouts. Those meats can also be ordered by themselves as an appetizer ($5), along with artisanal cheeses ($4) and note-perfect salads ($6-$8), including a Caesar with a snowy mound of Parma curls and a single anchovy.
Top treat: Pugliese pizza with burrata, broccolini, sausage, fresh chilies and garlic, $15
Easy splurges: Low-cost dishes at the hot new places
4. Al di La Trattoria
248 Fifth Ave.; 718-783-4565; aldilatrattoria.com
This charming, 50-seat Italian eatery with communal tables and mix-and-match décor was one of the pioneers of Brooklyn's modern dining renaissance, and the lines out the door (no reservations are taken) indicate it's still a must-visit for foodies from outside the trendy Park Slope neighborhood. Chef Anna Klinger specializes in Venetian dishes made with fresh seasonal ingredients. Excellent freshly made pastas include casunziei (ravioli stuffed with red beets and ricotta) and tortelli filled with spring peas and mascarpone; the half-dozen entrees are highlighted by whole roasted orata (sea bream) with tomato, black olives and lemon/mustard/butter salmoriglio sauce.
Cheapest pasta:Casunziei, $12. Others, $15-$19.
Cheapest entrée: Saltimbocca alla Romana (pork loin scaloppini with sage leaves and prosciutto), $16.50. Others, $17-$24.
Worth trading down? Yes. Both the pasta and the saltimbocca were fine values; achieve further savings by swapping out the pasta for one of the $9.50-$13 antipasti dishes, particularly the $10 stewed cuttlefish with oxtail and polenta.
5. Diner
85 Broadway; 718-486-3077; dinernyc.com
First-timers should be prepared to take a few minutes to wrap their heads around this extremely hip eatery near the Williamsburg Bridge. The setting is a renovated 1920s Kullman diner, complete with tile floor, low curved ceiling and a long dining bar, and it's possible to order a classic burger for $12 — or $36-$80 steaks. But the rest of the menu is a long list of quirky and creative specials that changes daily and doesn't contain any prices. So one never knows what to expect or how much it will cost (unless you ask). A chilled soup of broccoli puree was spiked with pickled rhubarb and fried shallots; a plate of tiny grilled duck hearts was adorned with radishes, snap peas and jalapeno butter; and roasted halibut came with grits and ratatouille sauce. What else lies in store — who knows? Just go.
Cheapest appetizer: Chilled broccoli puree, $8. Others, $8-$14.
Cheapest entrée: Grass-fed beef burger, $12. Others, $16-$24 (plus $36-$80 steaks).
Worth trading down? Hard to say. The burger is a fixture of the permanent menu, but the main reason for visiting is the eclectic specials that change daily.
Hotel Reservations with Supreme Clientele Travel
Concierge Services Available
Supreme Clientele Travel provides you with great prices on the places you want to stay for
both leisure and business travel. We know that the hotel experience is an important part of
your trip. This is why we provide insight on our broad selection of hotels through current,
unbiased hotel reviews from discerning guests just like you who have stayed at the property. Supreme Clientele Travel offers more than 70,000 properties worldwide from hotels to
bed-and-breakfasts to condos to all-inclusive resorts. We offer the information you need to
book the perfect trip through detailed hotel reviews, Flexible Booking and our Price Match
Guarantee.Compare our rates and you'll see why thousands of customers are using Supreme Clientele
Travel to book their vacations. Great hotels at a great price! Supreme Clientele Travel gives
you the best rates available. Quality services at discounted prices.For more information and bookings
call Toll Free (866)782-9838www.supremeclienteletravel.biz
Need Event tickets?
http://www.neversoldout.info
www.neversoldout.info Concerts * Theater * Sports * TV Shows * Comedy * Movies * Events Tickets360 provides unbeatable selection, exceptional service, and the utmost security are elements that make
Supreme Clientele the world's favorite and most trusted brand for premium event seating and tickets.
We take very seriously our responsibility to provide consumers with a thoroughly satisfying shopping experience.
From the moment you order to the day your tickets arrive safely at your door, we handle every aspect of your transaction—ensuring your complete satisfaction. Our commitment to customer service guarantees that a trained representative processes every order. To provide you with the best buying experience possible, our sales staff is not paid on commission. Our business is built on the solid foundation of customer loyalty. We sincerely appreciate your business and work hard to ensure that you will visit Supreme Clientele for all your ticket needs. For ticket information call (407)413-9578
www.neversoldout.info Concerts * Theater * Sports * TV Shows * Comedy * Movies * Events Tickets360 provides unbeatable selection, exceptional service, and the utmost security are elements that make
Supreme Clientele the world's favorite and most trusted brand for premium event seating and tickets.
We take very seriously our responsibility to provide consumers with a thoroughly satisfying shopping experience.
From the moment you order to the day your tickets arrive safely at your door, we handle every aspect of your transaction—ensuring your complete satisfaction. Our commitment to customer service guarantees that a trained representative processes every order. To provide you with the best buying experience possible, our sales staff is not paid on commission. Our business is built on the solid foundation of customer loyalty. We sincerely appreciate your business and work hard to ensure that you will visit Supreme Clientele for all your ticket needs. For ticket information call (407)413-9578
Looking for a great Orlando Vacation & Travel Package?
Looking for a great Orlando Vacation & Travel Package? Whether you are 3 years old or 93, Orlando, Florida remains the magical dream come true and the ultimate family vacation destination. Now with nearly 100 theme parks and attractions, it's impossible to do it all but you can certainly have fun trying. Whether you prefer to stay right on Disney property or at one of the many conveniently located hotels or resorts in the Orlando area, you're sure to find accommodations ideally suited to fit your family's needs and budget. Build Your Own Package Orlando Hotel SpecialWhat a great idea! Tell us what you'd like in an Orlando hotel deal, and we'll deliver it - at a great rate. All you have to do is pick the dates you would like to travel and the type of room you'd like to book. We'll show you all the options that you can add to make your trip the best ever. For reservations and package information call Supreme Clientele Travel (407)413-9578
Orlando Flex Tickets..No timeshare tours required!
No Timeshare viewings!
CATCH ALL THE NEWEST ATTRACTIONS -
AT EACH OF CENTRAL FLORIDA'S MOST EXCITING THEME PARKS!<br>
Orlando FlexTicket™ Includes:
* 14 Days of unlimited admission to Universal's Island of Adventure®, Universal Studios®, SeaWorld® Orlando, Aquatica™ and Wet 'n Wild®-Orlando
* Includes access to the live entertainment venues at Universal CityWalk*
Adults:$234.99 Kids:$209.99(Ages 3-9)
Orlando FlexTicket Plus Includes:<br>
<br>
* All the benefits of the 5-Park Orlando FlexTicket PLUS unlimited admission to Busch Gardens® Tampa Bay.
* Free shuttle† to and from Busch Gardens.
Adults:$279.99 Kids:239.99(Ages 3-9)
For more information and Ticket purchases call (407)413-9578
Supreme Clientele Travel is now offering Rodeway Inn(R) packages
Supreme Clientele Travel is now offering Rodeway Inn® packages which include car rentals, attraction tickets, dinner shows and event/sports tickets.
Third Party Shuttle transportation is also available.5 day reservation guests receive $5.00 off attraction ticket reservations
and a free category upgrade on car rental bookings.Also, Rodeway Inn® introduces an easier, faster and more secure online
reservation system,With this innovation, prospective guests can now enjoy
the convenience of getting instantly confirmed reservations without the
fuss. Reservations can also be made with Supreme Clientele Travel at 407-413-9578.
Rodeway Inn® built its reputation by meeting the needs of value-conscious
guests, and specializes in the unique requirements of the senior travel
market. The hotels are highly visible and typically in destination
locations, known for offering good value for the area. When you stay with Rodeway Inn®, you really enjoy its good service and
exceptional value. You'll notice its unique style, familiar atmosphere, and
carefully maintained facilities, knowing immediately that you picked the
perfect place. You'll appreciate having just the right amenities. And it's
all at a sensible price. Oversized work area. Free high-speed Internet
access. Free parking. Business Services. Restaurants within walking
distance.Rodeway Inn is a SMOKE FREE Orlando hotel near the Florida Mall and
Orlando International Airport. Easily accessible from I-4 and Highway 441
on Orange Blossom Trail and convenient to all Orlando attractions. The Orlando International Airport is just 6 miles away. Disney World (9 miles),
Sea World (6 miles), and Universal Studios (5 miles)are just a short drive
away. Orlando Arena - Home of the NBA's Orlando Magic - in downtown is just
6 miles away. Expanded Cable TV with HBO is in all rooms. Free Wireless
Hi-Speed Internet is in Public Areas. Refrigerators and Microwaves
available in some rooms. Free on-site parking available. The Orange County
Convention Center (5 miles) and several shopping centers are also nearby
(Florida Mall only 1 mile). A variety of restaurants, cocktail lounges and
entertainment options are located in the surrounding area, directly next
door to Charley's Steak House (Ranked Top 10 nationally). Several popular
golf courses are also nearby. All of the guest rooms and baths have been
renovated in 2008.
Rodeway Inn Orlando6119 S Orange Blossom Trl,
Orlando, FL, US, 32809
Phone: (407)-855-1356
Fax: (407) -859-1794
Supreme Clientele Travel
(407)413-9578
(866)782-9838
Enterprise Car Rentals
Supreme Clientele Travel provides the lowest quotes on car rental reservations. Up to $25-off Weekly Deals
At U.S. airport and off-airport locationsSave big on five-consecutive-day minimum rentals! Up to $20 off at off-airport and up to $25 off at participating airport locations in the U.S.
Free upgrades also available from participating vendors.For more information and reservations call
Toll Free (866) 782-9838
JetBlue Florida Vacation Packages
Supreme Clientele Travel offers many vacation packages. Call now for a quote and destinationavailability. No service fees! (407)413-9578
Thursday, August 6, 2009
Do you have your Labor Day plans yet? How about a romantic getaway to the Caribbean?
$263 per couple - all inclusive! This is a 56% savings off of published September travel rates. No Blackout dates!
FOR THE SLIGHTLY ADVENTUROUS AND ROMANTICALLY INCLINED Enjoy an unforgetable vacation at one of our award-winning resorts
- The Mediterranean flare of Couples Sans Souci?
- The recently renovated with $30 Million in amenities of Couples Tower Isle?
- The lush, luxurious intimacy of Couples Swept Away?
- The inspiring, eclectic atmosphere of Couples Negril?
The resort you will be staying at remains a "SECRET" until 7 days prior to your arrival. Each resort offers exceptional settings and inclusions. You'll never be disapppointed!
Travel September 1, 2009 - September 30, 2009. Book now through September 30, 2009. Pricing per couple, per room. Not combinable with complimentary wedding and honeymoon amenities. Not applicable for group travel. This is combinable with Romance Rewards beneifits.
For reservations and more information call Supreme Clientele Travel (407)413-9578
VH1 "Best Cruise Ever" Opens Ticket Sales
VH1’s “Best Cruise Ever” is now on sale to the general public. This first official VH1 entertainment cruise is scheduled to sail April 15 to 19 on the Carnival Inspiration. This music festival at sea, hosted by 3 Doors Down, also features Lifehouse and Shinedown. The four-night cruise sails roundtrip from Tampa and will visit Grand Cayman. The cruise will also include performances by Finger Eleven and VH1’s “You Oughta Know” artists Carolina Liar and Safetysuit, along with several other artists. In addition to seeing these artists perform, guests can participate in VH1-themed onboard activities and contests. Fares start at $799 per person based on double occupancy plus taxes and fees. For more information, call Supreme Clientele Travel (407)413-9578
Wednesday, August 5, 2009
Discovery Channel launches adventure tours
Discovery Channel is launching a new brand of tours and trips called Discovery Adventures.
The brand will offer trips to destinations including Mexico, Costa Rica, Peru, the Amazon, the Galapagos, India, Thailand, Cambodia, China, South Africa, Morocco, Egypt, Alaska and the U.S. Southwest. Itineraries will range from cruises and safaris to exploring the ancient civilizations of the Incas, the Egyptians and Angkor Wat in Cambodia.
Tour themes will tie in with places featured on Discovery Channel programs like Man V. Wild, Out of Egypt, Discovery Atlas, Dirty Jobs and Into the Unknown with Josh Bernstein. Participants will have opportunities to explore ruins and historic sites, as well as to do volunteer work in the destinations and experience local cultures.
Departures begin in December. The trips will run from three to 24 days and are being offered in partnership with the tour company G.A.P. Adventures.
Prices start at $2,000 per person, plus airfare, with the price covering lodging, breakfast and some other amenities. Groups will be small, just six to 15 people depending on the destination, with all trips suitable for families.
Experience Ultimate Renewal when you enjoy Classic all-inclusive excellence.
With so many of the typical vacationing hassles taken care of, your only job is to enjoy all the great features of our resort such as a seaside swimming pool, spa, casino plus a variety of daily activities.
Experience Ultimate Renewal when you enjoy Classic all-inclusive excellence.
The Westin Resort, Aruba is the perfect island destination, offering the charm of the Dutch Caribbean, a magnificent beach, glittering casino, and a host of outdoor pleasures. Located on the luxurious strip of Palm Beach, Aruba, amidst sparkling blue water and soft sand beaches, The Westin Resort, Aruba offers an ideal blend of Caribbean warmth and Las Vegas-style excitement.
Rates starting from $199 per person* per night based on double occupancy
Your package includes:- $100 resort credit for all reservations booked by September 30, 2009 and staying until December 18, 2009
- Overnight accommodations including taxes and gratuities
- Breakfast in Bon Bini restaurant
- Lunch in Terrace restaurant
- A la carte dinner in Cafe Baci restaurant
- Optional $25 credit per person to be used towards dining at Pago Pago, Blossoms or Azull restaurants
- All beverages - alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages included
- Non-motorized water activities at the resort
- Complimentary use of fitness club and tennis court facilities nearby
For more information call Supreme Clientele Travel at (407)413-9578
Disney World Swan, Dolphin Resort Offers Labor Day Deal
The Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort is rewarding laborers across the country with an affordable getaway to one of the world’s favorite family destinations. In tribute to the U.S. workforce this Labor Day, and in honor of the ninth month in 2009, they are offering a $99 per night rate Sept. 1 through Sept. 9, 2009. To honor their own loyal laborers, they are also awarding complimentary stays and dinners for nine employees and their families. All employees who have worked at the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort for at least one year will be eligible to enter a Labor Day raffle. Guests can reserve the “$99 in ’09” Labor Day deal by calling 800-227-1500. The offer is valid Sept. 1 to 9, 2009; requires a minimum three-night stay; and is subject to rate plan availability. For reservations or more information, call Supreme Clientele Travel at (407)413-9578
Florida's Downtown Disney Debuts Princess Diana Exhibit
This summer, The People’s Princess Charitable Foundation, Inc. (PPCF) unveiled “Diana -- The People’s Princess,” an exhibit of royal artifacts, on the west side of Downtown Disney at the Walt Disney World in Florida. The limited-time experience showcases the life and story of Princess Diana. Clients can see samples of the royal dresses Diana chose to auction for charity and hundreds of authentic artifacts relating to her life. Tickets can be purchased at the exhibit’s admission window for $14.50 (ages 10 and above) and $5 (ages 3 to 9). “Diana -- The People’s Princess” exhibit continues through Nov. 30, and is open daily from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. For more information, call Supreme Clientele Travel at 9407)413-9578
Disney's Epcot to Host Annual Food & Wine Festival
In 2009, the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival, presented by Vanity Fair, transforms the theme park into a destination filled with the world’s tastiest regional foods and drinks and concerts. Clients can sample flavors of Rio de Janeiro and Bangkok and enjoy performers. The Epcot International Food & Wine Festival is held Sept. 25 through Nov. 8. For more information call Supreme Clientele Travel at (407)413-9578
Tuesday, August 4, 2009
A new way to see L.A.: On horseback
For most tourists, visiting Los Angeles includes stopping in Hollywood and making a side trip to Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills. Getting around means dealing with traffic and freeways.
But in historic Griffith Park, known for the famous Hollywood sign that overlooks the city, you can hop on a horse for a sunset ride and leave the clogged streets and smog behind. The ride includes a panoramic view of the San Fernando Valley and dinner at a Mexican restaurant with your horse hitched to a nearby post.
"It's like being out in the country in the city," Griffith Park Horse Rentals owner Julie Schad said. "It's a change of pace. A lot of people come from out of town and they want something different. It's a popular ride."
The horseback tour, led by a guide, starts with a 90-minute ride up one of the hills in Griffith Park, where you'll also find hiking trails and Griffith Observatory, which houses science exhibits and a planetarium. The observatory has been the setting for numerous movies, including the James Dean classic "Rebel Without a Cause," and a bust of the actor welcomes visitors.
The horses pause atop a peak for a romantic view of the sunset over the valley. Couples have jumped off their horses here and proposed marriage looking out at the picturesque landscape — something Schad and her staff sometimes conspire to set up.
The ride stops along another trail at Viva Fresh Mexican Restaurant, where you can tie your horse up at a hitching post and enjoy dinner and a margarita.
"It's kind of a classic sit-down Mexican restaurant and bar — not fancy, not expensive, but it's a quaint location with good prices," Schad said.
Then it's a 20-minute ride on flat ground back to the stables.
Miguel Alcantar, 26, took his wife on a ride on Valentine's Day earlier this year.
"We left the kids at home with grandma, and we enjoyed some beers at Viva. The ambiance was really nice," Alcantar said. "It was also great to take a day off from the boys."
The Griffith Park stable also offers daily horse rentals by the hour, but the sunset dinner ride is an old tradition. A version of it has been around for nearly 50 years, something Schad continued when she bought the rental location six years ago.
"It was important to keep it going," Schad said. "People love it and you can tell how relaxed they are when they return."
Horses for hire include two brown and white Belgian draft horses, brothers Rocky and Rollin, who stand 18 hands high, or about six feet at the shoulders. They've been working in Griffith Park for the last six months and have become popular even though Schad charges more to ride them than any of the other horses — $95 instead of $65. The breed is known for pulling power and size, typically weighing in around 2,000 pounds.
The ride isn't just for couples, and Schad often gets families celebrating birthdays.
"I loved the view, everything was really neat," 12-year-old Kara Waldron said. "My friends wanted to go with me and so did my mom. It was fun."
Bumped from your flight? You've got rights
Airlines are operating fewer flights this summer, meaning that planes are packed even with the slump in travel.
Often the airlines sell more tickets than there are seats on the plane. Last year, more than 63,000 passengers were bumped, according to government figures, and this year is shaping up as more of the same.
So what should you do if you get bumped? What if your flight is delayed so long that you miss your niece's wedding?
Before bargaining with the gate agent over travel vouchers and upgrades, it pays to know your rights and the airline's responsibilities.
The federal government sets rules on bumping and occasionally fines airlines for breaking them. This month, the Transportation Department fined Delta Air Lines $375,000, although it may waive about half if Delta improves its procedures for handling oversold flights.
Airlines must ask for volunteers first, and pay passengers who are bumped against their will.
If you are bumped from a domestic flight, the airline must pay you the price of a one-way ticket up to $400 cash if you are rescheduled to reach your destination between one and two hours of the original arrival time. The maximum doubles to $800 if it takes longer.
Some passengers with time to kill don't mind getting bumped. They hope to get cash, travel vouchers or an upgrade to first-class in exchange for taking a slightly later flight.
Chris McGinnis, a travel consultant in San Francisco, says the best flights to haggle over are late-afternoon or evening ones popular with business travelers who can't afford to be stranded overnight. Airlines are likely to offer more for passengers who give up a seat on a New York-Chicago run than on a flight full of vacationers from Atlanta to Orlando, he says.
Gate agents may put out a sign or simply tell passengers that they're looking for volunteers to skip the flight. McGinnis says it's often best to ignore their first offer and wait until departure time nears.
"The bidding gets stronger," he says. "That's when it goes from $100 off your next flight to maybe $300 and a business-class seat on the next flight out."
Experts warn about accepting travel vouchers. They might be hard to redeem, especially at peak travel periods. Make sure you understand any limitations.
Travelers are often baffled why airlines can sell more tickets than they have seats. Airlines oversell flights because some passengers buy costly fully refundable tickets on more than one flight and then only use one. Other flights are overbooked because the airline had to substitute a smaller plane with fewer seats.
While there are federal rules on bumping, there is no sweeping requirement for airlines to provide hotel rooms and meals for passengers who are stranded overnight, even if it's the carrier's fault, according to the Transportation Department. But you can haggle.
"It's up to the discretion of the carrier and the (gate) agent," says George Hobica, who operates airfarewatchdog.com. "Some airlines will do their best if you ask nicely and you ask privately you'll do better than if you make a scene." He says when a long delay appears obvious, you should ask to be rebooked on another airline.
Charlotte, real estate broker Mathew Bessette says Delta put him up in a hotel after his flight home from New York was canceled and a second flight spent four hours on the tarmac. He says he gained bargaining power by knowing the cause of the problem with his first flight no flight attendants.
"If their plane breaks down or their crew doesn't show up, that's their problem and it's their responsibility to accommodate you within reason," he says.
Veteran travelers say if a long delay will cause you to miss the reason for your trip a wedding or business meeting, for example ask for a refund. However, there is no law requiring the airline to give you a refund.
Airlines and passenger-rights groups are fighting over how the carriers handle long delays, and Congress may settle the issue. This month, a Senate committee passed a bill that would require airlines to let passengers off planes that are stuck on the tarmac for three hours.
The airlines say such a law would make things worse by forcing planes that might be near the front of the takeoff line to taxi back to the gate, then go to the back of the pack. More flights would be canceled, says David Castelveter, spokesman for the Air Transport Association, a Washington trade group for the largest U.S. carriers. Consumer groups aren't buying it.
"No one believes that the airlines will fix the problem themselves," says Kate Hanni, a California real estate agent who created a passenger-rights group after being stranded on a grounded American Airlines jet for more than eight hours in December 2006. "They haven't yet."
Since airline travel is often stressful, and summer always brings many delays, experts advise you have a Plan B. Know what flights are available if yours is canceled. If your flight is pushed back or scrubbed, hop on your laptop or phone to see if you can rebook.
"Prepare for the worst," says Hobica, the travel expert. "Bring a good book."
Monday, August 3, 2009
Special Pricing on Mexico and Hawaii Vacations
Special Pricing on Mexico and Hawaii! Cancun, Mexico
Aqua Cancun * Deluxe Ocean View Room
* $100 resort credit per room, per stay
* Children 12 and under stay free 4 Nights from $699 per adult
Book now - 12/15/09
Travel now - 12/20/09 Oahu
Aston Waikiki Beach Hotel * Partial Ocean View Room
* Every 4th night free
* 2-for-1 luau
* Aloha Book with up to $2,000 in savings on dining shopping,
activities, entertainment & golf
* Daily breakfast for two 4 nights from $419 per person
Book 8/24/09 - 12/5/09
Travel 8/24/09 - 12/9/09 Kauai
Aston Kauai Beach at Makaiwa * Garden View Room
* Every 4th night free
* 2- for-1 luau
* Aloha Book with up to $2,000 in savings on dining shopping,
activities, entertainment & golf
* $50 food and beverage credit 4 nights from $329 per person
Book now - 12/19/09
Travel now - 12/23/09 Maui
The Whaler on Kaanapali Beach * Garden View Room
* Every 7th night free
* 2-for-1 luau
* Aloha Book with up to $2,000 in savings on dining shopping,
activities, entertainment & golf 7 nights from $949 per person
Book now - 12/14/09
Travel now - 12/21/09 Oahu
Hilton Hawaiian Village Beach Resort & Spa * Resort View Room
* Keepsake memento of two State of Hawaii quarters in a collector's case
* Complimentary entree in select restaurants for any guest born in 1959
* Choice of one of the following per room and one per stay:
$50 spa credit
$50 dining credit OR $50 credit on beach craft rentals or beach activities 5 nights from $559 per person
Book now - 12/20/09
Travel now - 12/27/09 Big Island of Hawaii
Hilton Waikoloa Village * Resort View Room
* 4th night FREE
* American buffet breakfast daily at the Palm Terrace restaurant
for a maximum of two guests per room
* Daily Aloha Fun Pass per room, per day 4 nights from $469 per person
Book now - 12/18/09
Travel now - 12/22/09 For more information call:
Supreme Clientele Travel (407)413-9578
Aqua Cancun * Deluxe Ocean View Room
* $100 resort credit per room, per stay
* Children 12 and under stay free 4 Nights from $699 per adult
Book now - 12/15/09
Travel now - 12/20/09 Oahu
Aston Waikiki Beach Hotel * Partial Ocean View Room
* Every 4th night free
* 2-for-1 luau
* Aloha Book with up to $2,000 in savings on dining shopping,
activities, entertainment & golf
* Daily breakfast for two 4 nights from $419 per person
Book 8/24/09 - 12/5/09
Travel 8/24/09 - 12/9/09 Kauai
Aston Kauai Beach at Makaiwa * Garden View Room
* Every 4th night free
* 2- for-1 luau
* Aloha Book with up to $2,000 in savings on dining shopping,
activities, entertainment & golf
* $50 food and beverage credit 4 nights from $329 per person
Book now - 12/19/09
Travel now - 12/23/09 Maui
The Whaler on Kaanapali Beach * Garden View Room
* Every 7th night free
* 2-for-1 luau
* Aloha Book with up to $2,000 in savings on dining shopping,
activities, entertainment & golf 7 nights from $949 per person
Book now - 12/14/09
Travel now - 12/21/09 Oahu
Hilton Hawaiian Village Beach Resort & Spa * Resort View Room
* Keepsake memento of two State of Hawaii quarters in a collector's case
* Complimentary entree in select restaurants for any guest born in 1959
* Choice of one of the following per room and one per stay:
$50 spa credit
$50 dining credit OR $50 credit on beach craft rentals or beach activities 5 nights from $559 per person
Book now - 12/20/09
Travel now - 12/27/09 Big Island of Hawaii
Hilton Waikoloa Village * Resort View Room
* 4th night FREE
* American buffet breakfast daily at the Palm Terrace restaurant
for a maximum of two guests per room
* Daily Aloha Fun Pass per room, per day 4 nights from $469 per person
Book now - 12/18/09
Travel now - 12/22/09 For more information call:
Supreme Clientele Travel (407)413-9578
It's never too soon to start panicking at Universal Orlando
At Universal Orlando® Resort fill your days with the excitement of two
amazing theme parks. But when the sun sets, Universal Studios® is
transformed into the country’s premier annual Halloween
event—Universal’s Halloween Horror Nights®. 2-Park Vacation Getaway 3-night accommodations at a Universal Partner Hotel.
Unlimited Admission^ for up to one week to Universal Studios® and
Universal's Islands of Adventure® theme parks, plus Universal
CityWalk®. Starting from
$217*
per adult Upgrade Your Vacation! One Night of
Halloween Horror Nights Stay and Scream all night long^^ for only
$31.94 +tax per person on select event nights. Unlimited Admission toHalloween Horror Nights
Experience the Ultimate Fear every night with unlimited admission** to
Halloween Horror Nights for the length of your stay. Stay on-site and SKIP THE REGULAR LINES!
Get free Universal ExpressSM access with your room key card and skip
the regular lines† at participating rides and attractions all day
long.
Not valid during event nights.
For more information call Supreme Clientele Travel@ 407-413-9578
WARNING! EVENT MAY BE TOO INTENSE FOR YOUNG CHILDREN AND IS NOT
RECOMMENDED FOR CHILDREN UNDER THE AGE OF 13. NO COSTUMES OR MASKS
ALLOWED. Event occurs rain or shine. No rain checks, returns or
refunds. Prices, dates, times, attractions and entertainment are
subject to availability and may change without notice. Other
restrictions may apply. All prices, package inclusions & options
subject to change without notice. ^Unlimited admission equals seven
(7) consecutive days of admission, including first day of use, to
Universal Studios, Universal’s Islands of Adventure, and Universal
CityWalk. *Rate is tax inclusive, based on double occupancy for a
3-night stay at the Fairfield Inn & Suites International Drive,
standard room. Subject to availability, room type, hotel, and travel
dates selected. Rate valid for travel now–12/24/09. ^^This ticket
entitles one (1) Guest admission to Halloween Horror Nights (HHN) for
one (1) event night of your choice from the following 2009 Sunday to
Thursday Event Dates: October 1, 4, 8, 11, 15, 18, 21, 22, 25, 28 and
29. Ticket must be purchased in conjunction with a regular theme park
daily admission ticket. No rain checks, returns or refunds. Prices,
dates, times, attractions and entertainment subject to availability
and may change without notice. **This ticket entitles one (1) Guest
admission to Universal Studios, Universal’s Islands of Adventure,
Universal CityWalk and HHN for a total of up to seven (7) calendar
days during a seven (7) consecutive calendar day period which includes
the first day any theme park, CityWalk or HHN event night portion of
the ticket is used. Valid on all 2009 HHN Event Dates. If there are
no 2009 HHN event usages, the 7-Day, 2-Park theme park portion remains
valid until the first day of theme park or CityWalk usage and for the
following six (6) consecutive calendar days. †On-site hotel privileges
good for hotel stay as indicated on the room key card. Only good for
the number of guests staying in the room. Paid theme park admission
required. Some attractions excluded. Not valid for Halloween Horror
Nights event or other separately ticketed events. Access may be
restricted during certain times at certain attractions. Universal
Parks & Resorts Vacations is registered with the State of Florida as a
seller of travel. Registration number ST-24215.
amazing theme parks. But when the sun sets, Universal Studios® is
transformed into the country’s premier annual Halloween
event—Universal’s Halloween Horror Nights®. 2-Park Vacation Getaway 3-night accommodations at a Universal Partner Hotel.
Unlimited Admission^ for up to one week to Universal Studios® and
Universal's Islands of Adventure® theme parks, plus Universal
CityWalk®. Starting from
$217*
per adult Upgrade Your Vacation! One Night of
Halloween Horror Nights Stay and Scream all night long^^ for only
$31.94 +tax per person on select event nights. Unlimited Admission toHalloween Horror Nights
Experience the Ultimate Fear every night with unlimited admission** to
Halloween Horror Nights for the length of your stay. Stay on-site and SKIP THE REGULAR LINES!
Get free Universal ExpressSM access with your room key card and skip
the regular lines† at participating rides and attractions all day
long.
Not valid during event nights.
For more information call Supreme Clientele Travel@ 407-413-9578
WARNING! EVENT MAY BE TOO INTENSE FOR YOUNG CHILDREN AND IS NOT
RECOMMENDED FOR CHILDREN UNDER THE AGE OF 13. NO COSTUMES OR MASKS
ALLOWED. Event occurs rain or shine. No rain checks, returns or
refunds. Prices, dates, times, attractions and entertainment are
subject to availability and may change without notice. Other
restrictions may apply. All prices, package inclusions & options
subject to change without notice. ^Unlimited admission equals seven
(7) consecutive days of admission, including first day of use, to
Universal Studios, Universal’s Islands of Adventure, and Universal
CityWalk. *Rate is tax inclusive, based on double occupancy for a
3-night stay at the Fairfield Inn & Suites International Drive,
standard room. Subject to availability, room type, hotel, and travel
dates selected. Rate valid for travel now–12/24/09. ^^This ticket
entitles one (1) Guest admission to Halloween Horror Nights (HHN) for
one (1) event night of your choice from the following 2009 Sunday to
Thursday Event Dates: October 1, 4, 8, 11, 15, 18, 21, 22, 25, 28 and
29. Ticket must be purchased in conjunction with a regular theme park
daily admission ticket. No rain checks, returns or refunds. Prices,
dates, times, attractions and entertainment subject to availability
and may change without notice. **This ticket entitles one (1) Guest
admission to Universal Studios, Universal’s Islands of Adventure,
Universal CityWalk and HHN for a total of up to seven (7) calendar
days during a seven (7) consecutive calendar day period which includes
the first day any theme park, CityWalk or HHN event night portion of
the ticket is used. Valid on all 2009 HHN Event Dates. If there are
no 2009 HHN event usages, the 7-Day, 2-Park theme park portion remains
valid until the first day of theme park or CityWalk usage and for the
following six (6) consecutive calendar days. †On-site hotel privileges
good for hotel stay as indicated on the room key card. Only good for
the number of guests staying in the room. Paid theme park admission
required. Some attractions excluded. Not valid for Halloween Horror
Nights event or other separately ticketed events. Access may be
restricted during certain times at certain attractions. Universal
Parks & Resorts Vacations is registered with the State of Florida as a
seller of travel. Registration number ST-24215.
JetBlue and United give Twitter a try to sell airline seats fast
Looking for a quick, cheap getaway? A bargain may be just a tweet away. JetBlue and United airlines are offering their Twitter followers first
dibs on some discounted fares, using the uber-trendy form of messaging
to quickly connect with customers and fill seats on flights that might
otherwise take off less than full. Like the e-mails that many airlines began to send out in the 1990s,
tweets are presenting a new, faster way to promote sales. And in
fitting with this latest mode of instant communication, travelers have
to decide quickly whether to fly. JetBlue posted its first "Cheep" on July 6, a $9 one-way trip from JFK
to Nantucket. Since then the carrier has generally notified Twitterers
about sales on Mondays, giving them about eight hours — or as long as
there are available seats — to book a trip for that or the following
weekend. "By promoting the Cheeps through Twitter, we give the already
spontaneous audience of Twitter users a chance to grab great
last-minute fares," says JetBlue spokesman Morgan Johnston. In addition to filling empty seats, the sales can introduce new
customers to the airline, he says. "Those first-time customers trying
Cheeps … we know they're going to come back." United's Twitter-only fares, also known as "twares," started in May.
The airline's sales tweets can come at any time for a flight leaving
on any day, and fliers have had to pounce quickly because the offers
are usually available for only one to two hours. "Twares are all about surprising our customers with low fares for a
very, very limited time," says Robin Urbanski, a United spokeswoman.
And, she says, they "sell extremely fast because the prices are
unbeatable." Many airlines continue to offer e-fares, notifying fliers about
last-minute sales via e-mail. But travelers usually have a few days
rather than a few hours to book their tickets. With Twitter fares, Johnston says, "You really have to act fast.
Because people watch Twitter in a real-time manner, the ability for
someone to … come in and immediately act on it is a unique phenomenon
to the culture of Twitter." Twitter is new enough that businesses likely are still trying to grasp
who uses it and how that audience can benefit their enterprise, says
George Hobica, founder of Airfarewatchdog.com. "They're experimenting with it to see what the value is," he says. "Is
it better to send an e-mail with a $9 fare or better to Twitter it?"
Still, he says, "I think absolutely airlines and all travel companies
need to get in the game and see how it plays out."
dibs on some discounted fares, using the uber-trendy form of messaging
to quickly connect with customers and fill seats on flights that might
otherwise take off less than full. Like the e-mails that many airlines began to send out in the 1990s,
tweets are presenting a new, faster way to promote sales. And in
fitting with this latest mode of instant communication, travelers have
to decide quickly whether to fly. JetBlue posted its first "Cheep" on July 6, a $9 one-way trip from JFK
to Nantucket. Since then the carrier has generally notified Twitterers
about sales on Mondays, giving them about eight hours — or as long as
there are available seats — to book a trip for that or the following
weekend. "By promoting the Cheeps through Twitter, we give the already
spontaneous audience of Twitter users a chance to grab great
last-minute fares," says JetBlue spokesman Morgan Johnston. In addition to filling empty seats, the sales can introduce new
customers to the airline, he says. "Those first-time customers trying
Cheeps … we know they're going to come back." United's Twitter-only fares, also known as "twares," started in May.
The airline's sales tweets can come at any time for a flight leaving
on any day, and fliers have had to pounce quickly because the offers
are usually available for only one to two hours. "Twares are all about surprising our customers with low fares for a
very, very limited time," says Robin Urbanski, a United spokeswoman.
And, she says, they "sell extremely fast because the prices are
unbeatable." Many airlines continue to offer e-fares, notifying fliers about
last-minute sales via e-mail. But travelers usually have a few days
rather than a few hours to book their tickets. With Twitter fares, Johnston says, "You really have to act fast.
Because people watch Twitter in a real-time manner, the ability for
someone to … come in and immediately act on it is a unique phenomenon
to the culture of Twitter." Twitter is new enough that businesses likely are still trying to grasp
who uses it and how that audience can benefit their enterprise, says
George Hobica, founder of Airfarewatchdog.com. "They're experimenting with it to see what the value is," he says. "Is
it better to send an e-mail with a $9 fare or better to Twitter it?"
Still, he says, "I think absolutely airlines and all travel companies
need to get in the game and see how it plays out."
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