World's Weirdest Travel Gadgets - Articles - Travel + Leisure

World's Weirdest Travel Gadgets - Articles - Travel + Leisure

The Shotover Jet, Queenstown, New Zealand

This was one of my favorite excursions in Queenstown, New Zealand. If you don't mind signing a waiver for your life, go for it!

The newest Zoetry Resort, A Golden Bear Lodge

Valid only for new bookings made until January 31, 2010 only for travel from November 21, 2009 through April 30, 2010 at Golden Bear Lodge & Spa Cap Cana. Third night free is accumulative and applies to every third night of stay after two nights are paid. Promo may not be valid in run of the house room category, and may be restricted in other room categories. Savings are reflected in the package price. Sale will run through January 31, however the offer is based on availability and the resort reserves the right to close or modify the offer at any time. Value added extras including spa treatments, wine and romantic dinners should be charged to the guests’ account. Third dining option free only applies to romantic set up dinners and not other meal options within the hotel. Set up dinners will receive a 33% discount after paying for one. Upon check out the lowest of the three paid items will be removed upon verification of two items paid at full price. Free item has to be of equal or lesser value then the lowest priced paid item. Free spa applies to massage treatments only. Free spa excludes: all beauty salon services and boutique or spa products. With a three night minimum stay, guests will also receive one complimentary round of golf at Punta Espada. Free round of golf must be redeemed on tee times scheduled for 12 noon and later.

Click here for full Terms & Conditions.

Largest Cruise Ship faces Extreme Weather

talk about a tight fit, Oasis of the Seas passing under Bridge in Denmark

Royal Caribbean's Oasis of the Seas leaves shipyard

New Disney Dream Cruise Liner in 2011

Those sneaky airline fees

My favorite restaurants in Cartagena

My top picks for restaurants in Cartagena, Colombia...

1. El Santísimo - This Caribbean cuisine restaurant has a unique characteristic: it features the name of catholic saints and rituals for all of its entrees and appetizers. Desserts are named after mortal sins. (Dinner, Old City)

2. Portón de Santo Domingo Restaurant - International cuisine restaurant, located in the Old City. (great for lunch)

3. Club de Pesca Restaurant - located at the Sebastián del Pastelillo Fort. This traditional Caribbean cuisine restaurant lies on a bay where yachts dock few feet away.
(Dinner, arrive by yacht for a spectacular entrance)

4. San Pedro de Majagua - located on the Rosario Islands, great for a day trip, enjoy the lobster lunch.

Broadcasting the KSL Travel Show live from Killarney, Ireland on 17 Oct 2009

Dreams Riviera Cancun opens with fanfare and great opening rates

First Guests at Dreams Riviera Cancun Honored During Opening Day Celebrations Patricia Miller, Madeline Evenson, Teresa Paglione and Kathleen Westcoat arrive as Dreams Riviera Cancun’s first guests on Oct. 1, 2009. The group arrived from Baltimore, MD on a Girlfriend Getaway, a package offered at all Dreams Resorts & Spas. The foursome, shown above, took part in the ceremonial ribbon cutting to officially open the resort. Dreams Riviera Cancun Resort & Spa, Dreams Resorts & Spas’ newest property located next to the charming beachfront town of Puerto Morelos, celebrated its grand opening on October 1, 2009. The first guests were personally greeted in the lobby by the entire resort staff and were each presented with bouquets of exotic tropical flowers before being invited to participate in the ceremonial ribbon cutting while a 12-piece Mexican mariachi band serenaded their arrival. Opening day festivities continued into the night as guests were invited to an unforgettable evening under the stars. Guests dined on gourmet dishes prepared by Dreams Rivera Cancun’s Executive Chef Carlos Brioars while listening to the cool sounds of live jazz by James Mclean of International Platters. The celebration was topped off by the heart-racing performance of ITZAES, a traditional Mexican dance troupe that fuses fire dancing with live drum beats. Guests staying at the all-new Dreams Riviera Cancun will enjoy Unlimited-Luxury® in an unparalleled tropical setting. The resort is surrounded by glistening pools, spring-fed cenotes, lush tropical gardens and a palm-studded beach. Amenities include 486 sumptuous premium octagonal rooms and suites with stunning ocean views, 24-hour room service, daily refreshed mini bars, countless activities, gourmet dining options and bars serving premium brands. For additional information about the resort or to book a vacation, please visit www.dreamsresorts.com, call 1.866.2DREAMS or your favorite travel agent. Sample rate: Opening rates for a Premium Deluxe room start at $105 per person, per night based on double occupancy. Kids Stay, Play and Eat Free now through December 23, 2009 (blackout dates: Nov. 25-29). To take advantage of these great deals visit, www.DreamsResorts.com today.

How Creative? A new fee to pay your fees!

United Airlines gets creative with their fees. Dare I say, even philanthropic by giving us the "gift" of giving premier baggage to others. For a limited time only, choose Premier Baggage at the introductory price of $249. Forget about first and second bag fees. With Premier Baggage, you and up to eight companions traveling under the same confirmation number can check up to two standard bags each without fees, where applicable, every time you travel within the United States or internationally on United® or United Express® operated flights during the year.*

Premier Baggage options Premier Baggage Forget about first and second bag fees for an entire year. Introductory price 249.00 USD Give Premier Baggage Give a deserving traveler a full year free of first and second bag fees with a Premier Baggage gift subscription. Introductory price 249.00 USD When you purchase the Premier Baggage option, your annual subscription will be associated with your Mileage Plus® account. Simply provide your Mileage Plus number each time you make a United reservation, and you'll automatically receive your Premier Baggage benefits. Premier Baggage can also be purchased for a friend or family member. It makes a great gift for any frequent flyer. *The purchase of a Premier Baggage annual subscription does not waive fees that would ordinarily be assessed for oversized and overweight bags and does not cover the cost of checking more than two standard bags.

Rio De Janeiro awarded 2016 Olympics

Exclusive Dining in Paris Overlooking the Eiffel Tower

The recently opened Nomiya restaurant sits atop the Palais de Tokyo, a neoclassical building now a contemporary art museum. The restaurant is a minimalist glass box, which accommodates 12 people for lunch or dinner. The Menu changes daily and reservations can only be made on line. http://www.art-home-electrolux.com/en/?date=2009%2f10%2f01#tours Dont wait too long as Nomiya is open for one year.

Kuroshio Sea - Okinawa Japan

Direct flights to Roatan Island

Roatan Island is one of the “hottest” leisure destination in Central America. The ideal place for diving and for “sun & fun”. Nature’s best kept secret!

TACA Airlines will operate “seasonal” jet service to Roatan from Houston and Miami. Flights from Houston to Roatan will operate from December 5^th, 2009 until January 16^th 2010. Flights from Miami to Roatan will operate from December 6^th, 2009 until January 10^th, 2010.

From Ratan to Roatan: The Bay Islands were once inhabited by the Maya Indians and later by the time the Cristopher Columbus and the Spaniards arrived in 1502, by the Paya Indians. It is said that the Spaniards called the biggest of the island “Ratan”. The other islands received the names of Utila and Guanaja. In the 1600s British invaded the islands and when tried calling it ended up calling it “Roatan”. In 1770 Africans were brought from the British island of St. Vincent and white Brits migrated from the neighboring Cayman Islands. On March 2^nd 1782, Spanish troops invaded the islands and by 1788 many of the British citizens have left the islands. In 1796 the British forces took the islands again and established a government until 1861. That same year Queen Victoria returned the islands to Honduras. The capital of the island of Roatan is Coxen Hole.

Holiday Inn Key Card Hotel

Top 3 restaurants in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

1. Gero Rio, Ipanema

157 Rua Aníbal de Mendonça
Ipanema
Rio de Janeiro
Brazil
Tel: 55 21 2239 8158

http://www.fasano.com.br/site_gastronomia_en.php

Gero is part of the Fansano family. Fantastic Italian.

2. 00, Gávea

240 Avenida Padre Leonel Franca
Gávea
Rio de Janeiro
Brazil
Tel: 55 21 2540 8041

http://www.00site.com.br/

OO is cool and contemporary. Varied menu from sushi to meats, very eclectic. Open air restaurant.

3. Aprazível, Santa Teresa

Rua Aprazível 62

Santa Teresa

Rio de Janeiro

Brazil

021/3852-4935

http://www.aprazivel.com.br/aprazivel.htm

Intimate, local and great views.

Castaway Caye getting major renovations for Disney Cruise Lines

Non Stop from Los Angeles to Santiago is Back

Vancouver 2010 - Floating Hotel of the Winter Olympics

Newwest Special Projects LP and Norwegian Cruise Line are proud to offer you the opportunity to be a part of History while hosting you for the 2010 Vancouver Winter Games.


For one time, and one time only, you will be able to stay in the lap of luxury...look out your window and the beautiful Coastal Mountains appear larger than life...incredible, as you enjoy the extravagance of the deluxe, Norwegian Star.

Join us on one or more of our six Vancouver luxury cruise packages and make your Olympic vacation an experience of a lifetime!

Looking for a hotel in Vancouver, Canada? Our Deluxe floating resort hotel, the beautiful Norwegian Star offers you comfort, fun and flexibility. Eat when you want, play when you want and sleep when you want. With 13 restaurants, 8 lounges, the Barong Spa, fitness center and sensational nightly entertainment, we’re ready to meet your needs. Don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity to attend the Vancouver Winter Games, while making this “semi-inclusive” resort your home away from home.

You will love Vancouver City for its world renowned shops, extraordinary assortment of dining options, nightclubs and pubs. With all of this at your finger tips, plus all of the amenities the ship has to offer you, what more could you ask for?

Choose one or more of our six package options that best suit your needs. Whatever you choose, you will not be disappointed. Every 2010 package includes; Vancouver accommodations onboard the ship, nightly award winning entertainment, NCL gourmet dining, full schedule of shipboard activities, 24 hour complimentary room service, all meals while onboard (extra charge for a la carte dining), and live satellite coverage during the Vancouver Olympic Games of your favorite events.

Prices starting at $350 per person per night.

Jet Blue Truer True Blue

All about the newer, truer TrueBlue
All about you
TrueBlue will make it easier for you to earn—and keep—your TrueBlue points. And using your points for Award Flights will be easier too, because there will be no blackout dates! You will be able to use your points for any seat, any time. 1

The scoop
No blackout dates for Award Flights—get any seat, any time. As long as there is an available seat and you have the points, that seat is all yours.
Points don't expire. Just fly JetBlue or use your JetBlue Card from American Express® at least once a year.2
Oneway Award Flights will be available starting at just 5,000 points. The number of points you need to book a flight varies, depending on the flight you choose. Some flights may require more than 5,000 points depending on such factors as your choice of destination, the day of the week and the time of year you are traveling, and how far in advance you are booking your flight.
Earn up to six (6) points for every eligible dollar you spend when you purchase a flight at jetblue.com.3
Bonus points: In addition to the online booking bonus and the JetBlue Card from American Express® bonus, you can earn even more with two other types of bonuses.†

Go Big Bonus: The more points you accumulate within a 12 month period, the more bonus points you'll receive.

Reach* Receive a bonus of
3,000 points 500 points
6,000 points 1,000 points
9,000 points 2,000 points
12,000 points 4,000 points
For every 3,000 points
above 12,000 points 4,000 points
*Calculated by multiplying the base airfare paid for a flight by three (3) points or, in the case of flight bookings on www.jetblue.com, multiplying such base airfare by six (6) points. Any and all other bonus points are excluded.
Go Long Bonus: Members who take ten one-way flights, each 2,000 miles or more, in a 12 month period will get 10,000 bonus points — enough for a roundtrip award flight.

List of Go Long bonus flights
It's only going to get better
We've got great plans for you and TrueBlue. It's all about truly rewarding you for traveling with us. We will be adding more benefits and more features so stay tuned. There is a lot more coming your way.

Don't worry
If you have TrueBlue points left over when the program relaunches in the fall you will be able to use the points you earn in the redesigned program and convert them back into old TrueBlue points in order to get to an Award Flight.

Incentive to Travel With Friends

I love when a resort makes it easy to travel with friends and family. AMResorts which includes Dreams, Secrets and Zoetry have offered a special incentive to travel with those that mean the most to you....

• Private check-in and Welcome Cocktail for the group
• Every 12th person receives a complimentary stay
• 1 Free VIP room upgrade for every 10 rooms
• $100 in Resort Coupons per person

They call this offer the "3G", Gatherings, Getaways and Groups. I call it be the best friend and start organizing.

Dreams is for families and well suited for friends.
Secrets is for adults, well suited for couples.
Zoetry is for adults, well suited for a special occasion.

Delta Announces new Medallion Benefits

New Medallion Benefits

Coming spring 2010, you can enjoy these new Medallion benefits:

* Diamond Medallion Status: You'll be a member of this new elite level by earning 125,000 MQMs or 140 segments. This level will enjoy complimentary Delta Sky Club™ membership, a 125% mileage bonus, more fee waivers and exclusive rewards.
* Rollover Medallion Qualification Miles (MQMs): It's an airline first—any MQMs you've earned above your Medallion qualification level at the end of the year will rollover to your MQM balance for the following year. There's no limit.
* Choice Benefits: Now you have the flexibility to choose the benefits that best fit you. The choices include new Systemwide Upgrade Certificates that are redeemable on the day of departure, the ability to Gift Medallion Status to a friend, bonus miles you can keep or donate to a SkyWish charity and Delta Sky Club One-Day passes.
* Direct Ticketing Charge Waivers: for Gold, Platinum, and Diamond Medallion members.

The Inca Trail

Dreams & Secrets Resorts 100% Extraordinary, 50% Less Expensive

My favorite All inclusive Resorts are on Sale... Secrets Resorts (For Adults) and Dreams Resorts (For Families).

• Experience Unlimited-Luxury® and save up to 50%

• Add $200 in resort coupons to indulge in spa therapies,
private dining and specialty wines

• Kids stay free at Dreams Resorts & Spas

United Breaks Guitars

Perfect Summer Destination, Chateau Lake Louise

Guests will experience adventure in the Rockies with the "Pay 4 Stay 7" Package. This fun-filled seven day family package is designed to help intrepid adventurers of all ages explore Banff National Park from its' most elegant base camp, The Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise. Alberta's Chateau is situated in the heart of Banff National Park, on the shores of Lake Louise. Seven days is barely enough time to experience the days adventure and evening dining experiences ranging from footloose to four diamond. Guests can interact with wildlife and nature with the help of a Mountain Heritage Guide. The guiding program dates back to 1897 when courageous Alpinists sought unclaimed peaks and continues today with programs ranging from light hikes around the lake to multi-day trekking excursions. Guests can experience a sunrise or a sunset, or both out on the lake in their own canoe as rentals are complimentary with this package.

Package Includes: Accommodations for 7 nights Unlimited Canoe Rentals One Guided Hike for all guests per stay $350 Food and Beverage credit ($50/day) Complimentary parking

Availability This offer is valid May 1st - September 30th, 2009 for stays of 7 nights only.

Rates: Starting from $599 per person per week. (based on double occupancy)

Every City on Sale

As usual, Southwest is stirring up the pot. Yesterday they launched a well publicized “Every City on Sale” ending tonight at 11:59 PST. They have made it very easy with three different airfare pricings based on the mileage of flight.

$30 each way for flights under 400 miles

$60 each way for flights between 401-750 miles

$90 each way for flights more than 750 miles

Go to www.southwest.com for more information and booking.

Delta didn’t have the stomach to match the system wide sale, so they choose a few cities from SLC to discount on their weekly sale fare with heavy restrictions. Lots of rumors about the other major carriers such as American, United and Continental joining the airfare war, but with huge debt on the books, they don’t seem to want to play with Southwest either. JetBlue likes others to react to their airfare wars, so they are not interested in Southwest sale either.

Others have jumped on the One Day Sale bandwagon, including destinations and carriers that don’t even compete with Southwest, including FunJet Vacations.

FunJet Vacations launched their one day WOW sale. Book by July 9^th for travel now until December 15, 2009. Three nights in Cancun with airfare included for $299 based on double occupancy at a 3 ½ star all inclusive property. Many other deals to choose from in Cancun, Cozumel, Riviera Maya, Vallarta, Los Cabos, and Caribbean to name a few with up to 60% savings. Contact your travel professional or go directly to http://ow.ly/gMSJ.

Amazing to me that travel products such Amazon’s Kindle (A wireless reading device) is in the discounting spirit. Amazon Kindle 2 was on sale today for $299 down from $359 yesterday. www.amazon.com/kindle.

You can listen to the KSL Travel Show with Doug Wren every Sunday from noon to 2pm. Follow Doug on twitter @dwtravel.

50% discount at Alaska's Boardwalk Lodge

Exclusive to KSL Listeners - choose your KSL Insider deal at Alaska's Boardwalk Lodge...

1.  a.      $1,000 off of the retail price given on our site for any package. This is all inclusive except for gratuities and liquor bar tab. It includes the floatplane, licenses, food, lodging, fully guided service, all gear, tackle, etc. (Bring the clothes you want to wear around the lodge and a healthy appetite. We do the rest!)

    b.      Jet air fare from the guest’s home to and from the lodge up to $700.

   c.      On of over 30 models of the new Orvis Helios rod (Value $800+. Excludes limited edition rods.

or 

2.      50% off of published retail rates.

Toll Free: 1-800-764-3918

www.boardwalklodge.com

Pet Airways – Travel for your best Friend

I recently read an article about a new airline service for pets only.  Well, its true.  Here is how it works….

 

1.    Drop your pet off at our Pet Lounge, located at the airport. You must check in your pet no later than 2 hours before take off. If you choose, you may check in your pet up to 72 hours before the flight. We’ll be happy to board your pet at our PAWS Lodge until the flight.

2.    Potty Breaks are very important to your pet. With the human airlines, your pet could be made to hold themselves for a very very long time. Pet Airways monitors the last time your pet had a potty break, and makes sure that they get regular potty breaks along the way. This means that it may take us longer to get to where we are going, but the care of our pawsengers is our first priority.

3.    Pets board the plane and our Pet Attendants make sure they’re all comfortable and that they, and their pet carrier, are secure.

4.    A Pet Attendant monitors and checks the comfort of all pawsengers every 15 minutes during the flight. After landing, pets will be disembarked, given a potty break, and will be available for pickup at the Pet Lounge.

5.    Pick up your pet at the Pet Lounge at your destination, knowing he or she has traveled comfortably and safely in the main cabin of our plane. If you cannot pick up your pet that day, we will be happy to board your pet overnight at the PAWS Lodge.

 

The aircrafts used are Beech 1900 turbo prop airplanes.  These 19 passenger planes have been modified by removing the “human furnishings”.

 

Fares start at $149 each way.  Currently the plan is to use airports within a two hour drive of major metropolitan cities.  Go to www.petairways.com for the current list of cities, airports and fares.

Italy with special Guest Valter Nassi of Cucina Toscana

Italy

New High Speed Train in 2011...  http://www.ntvspa.it/en/index.html

The company Nuovo Trasporto Viaggiatori will use only AGV model (Automotrice Grande Vitesse) high-speed Alstom trains equipped with the same traction system as the train that set the world rail speed record of 574.8 km/h on 3 April 2007.

This extraordinary performance confirms that Alstom’s experience in the field of high-speed operation is unequalled: worldwide, 70% of the trains currently used at speeds of more than 300 km/h were built by Alstom, whose equipment has travelled more than 2.8 billion kilometres and carried 1.6 billion passengers.

In other words, the AGV train, designed by Alstom and adopted to the world of NTV for the very first time, is nothing less than the state of the art in high-speed railway technology.

The AGV is based on a brand new concept, being built to travel at 360 km/h, in addition to being the only train to satisfy in full all the latest European specifications of interoperability (STI 2006), as well as European Union and Italian standards on safety and the environment.

The trains operated by NTV will hold 460 passengers in a total of 11 cars (length of train: 200 metres) and will travel on the Italian high-speed network at 300 km/h. The interiors are styled by Italdesign-Giugiaro.

There will be 25 trains in the NTV fleet.

Cooking Schools in Italy

http://www.sorrentocookingschool.com/

http://www.bluone.com/

http://www.taste-of-italy.com/

http://www.hotelvilladelia.com/

Italian Villas

http://www.italianvillas.com/

Villas are not for everyone.  Although villas sound romantic, they may not be what you expect.  Do you need Direct TV? A heated Pool? Turn down Service in the evening? WiFi?  There are different classifications of Villas:

1. Private Villas rented by the week with a full staff (luxury)

2.  Villas with a Bed & Breakfast feel

3.  Villas run as hotels available for nightly rental.

Consult your travel professional for the perfect fit.

KSL Insider Deal for Sunday, June 14, 2009

Hacienda Tres Rios

Nestled in a 326-acre pristine nature park in the Riviera Maya, Hacienda Tres Ríos is a luxury Caribbean resort forty five minutes south of Cancún’s International Airport. Here México’s present joins its past and Mexican and Mayan traditions converge to create truly unique experiences.

Opened November 2008, Hacienda Tres Ríos is the first resort of five at Tres Ríos. Hacienda Tres Ríos Resort boasts 273 suites using native materials and featuring breathtaking views of the tranquil turquoise Caribbean Sea. At the forefront of sustainable tourism development, creating amazing guest experiences while protecting the region’s natural beauty and culture.

The Endless Luxury All-Inclusive Plan at Hacienda Tres Ríos combines warm hospitality and luxurious room accommodations, exclusive use of the Tres Ríos Nature Park, and an incredible gourmet experience. Hacienda Tres Ríos features a great variety of restaurants and bars, including a pâtisserie, a pizzeria and a Martini and Tea-time Terrace. We also feature an exclusive Exit Lounge that offers a private area for guests to enjoy while awaiting airport transportation.

The Tres Ríos Nature Park is open exclusively for hotel guests. Enjoy guided nature tours through mangrove forests, snorkeling in cenotes and rivers, a white-sand beach, and daily activities for kids and teens.

KSL Insider Deal for Summer.....

Give your children the summer they’ve always dreamed of and treat yourself to the Endless Luxury All-Inclusive experience. Pay for two adults and up to two children stay for free! Luxurious accommodations, fine dining and tasteful entertainment, and a chance to exercise your choice of sports and recreations at Tres Ríos Nature Park, which is open exclusively for hotel guests: guided nature and kayak tours through mangrove forests, snorkeling, and of course all the fun of the beach. 

Price per night $568.00 USD for two adults and up to two children under 17 years.

Link for booking...   http://reservations.ihotelier.com/crs/p_prod.cfm?ProdID=220084&AgentID=0&PortalSymbol=SSS&TAID=0&FromAdmin=0&HotelID=15178&killcookie=1&LanguageID=1

More information can be found at http://www.haciendatresrios.com/

10 Places to Visit in Latin America Before You Die

Patricia Schultz, author of "1,000 Places to Visit Before You Die," has agreed to create a special list of "10 Places to Visit in Latin America Before You Die" for the Travel Weekly Latin America Virtual Conference.

1st - Oaxaca, Mexico (main square, churches, Indian market, food)
2nd - Belize Barrier Reef, Belize (reef, Ambergris Caye, Caulker Caye)
3rd - Tikal, Guatemala (ruins)
4th - Arenal Volcano, Costa Rica (hot springs)
5th - Cartagena, Colombia (colonial architecture, old walls, fortress)
6th - Sacred Valley of the Incas, Peru (Cusco, Machu Picchu, Urubamba Valley, Pisac)
7th - Torres del Paine, Chile
8th - Bahia de Salvador, Brazil (Pelourinho, architecture, market, beaches, African influence in religion, music and churches)
9th - Corcovado, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
10th - Lake District, Argentina (Bariloche, Nahuel Huapi Lake and National Park, the famous Llao Llao hotel and golf course)

Francis Ford Coppola's Tetro filmed in Buenos Aires

Francis Ford Coppola’s Tetro in Buenos Aires

I love when I find major motion pictures being filmed in an exotic location. When I heard Francis Ford Coppola was filming in Buenos Aires, I was thrilled. To have friends see Argentina in a new light, (the film is in black and white) who have not been to the country but only heard stories, they are in for a treat.

The movie is released on June 11, 2009.

Going to the official movie site, www.tetro.com, I would recommend going to the video section and watching the following to see Buenos Aires:

1. Trailer
2. Behind the Scenes; La Boca

The music and cinematography of Argentina will be well represented in Coppola’s Tetro.

Mr. Coppola has had a love for Latin America as shown by his ventures into his hotel properties in Belize, Guatemala and now Buenos Aires.

The Blancaneaux Lodge - Belize
Turtle Inn - Belize
La Lancha - Guatemala
Jardin Escondido – Buenos Aires.

To book any of the above properties and tour the respective countries, I would highly recommend, PanAmerican Tours & Travel, www.panam-tours.com, 800-364-4359.

KSL Insider Deals

KSL Insider Deals:

1. Buy one get one free night plus $200 resort credit at Secrets Silversands (http://www.secretsresorts.com/special-offers.asp#sesrc) and Dreams Villamanga (http://www.dreamsresorts.com/promotions.html).

2. China $999
2009 Departure Dates: Sept. 16, Oct 21, & Nov 11
7-day program
Includes:
· Round-trip air SLC-PEK
· First Class hotels
· Meals: breakfast daily and either L or D
· Extensive sightseeing: Great Wall, Sacred Way, Temple of Heaven, Summer Palace, Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, Beijing Zoo (panda bears), Ming Tombs, Hutong tour through “Old Beijing” via rickshaw, shopping, shopping, & more shopping. Options: humanitarian service at orphanage, church services, morning bike ride through Beijing
· Tour escorted from SLC and meet by local Chinese guides
· Same rate available from LAS & PHX
· What is not included: airline fuel surcharges (about $200), airline taxes (about $90); all pax will need a China tourist entry visa, if they do not already have one

Xian & Guilin Options:
· Tours to Xian and/or Guilin are available and are highly recommended
www.columbusvacations.com

3. The Sky Lodge is offering a special of $199.00 rate for a 2 bedroom Sky Suite the first 15 days of June. This room type can easily accommodate a family or two couples at 1200 sq ft. It features two bedrooms with private baths and a living room. Also, half price entrees until 15 of June.
The Sky Lodge Phone: 435.658.9427 www.theskylodge.com

fees for toilets and airsick bags on Ryanair

Desperate times call for desperate measures in the airline industry. CEO of Ryanair to charge for toilets and sickbags. Although Ryanair has been conservative with their fuel surcharges, they have been over the top with add-on fees such as: checking in online, baggage, priority boarding and now possibly fees for toilets and air sickbags. I am all for saving money, but when the most important aspect of your business is being profitable and the client’s satisfaction is never mentioned, well maybe its time for a new model. I will be interested to see if bookings go up or if there will be a revolt from loyal Ryanair passengers.

Seven Ways to annoy a flight attendant

1. Bring your pet on the plane, then act like an animal. Over the years, I've seen a pet on a passenger's lap, a pet tucked into a seatback pocket, and a pet loose in the aisle (I nearly hit it with my beverage cart). I've seen pets inside purses, backpacks, and coat pockets. All of this is against federal regulations. Your pet must stay in its carrier while you're on the plane. Yes, even if you've paid a "pet-in-cabin" fee.

2. Shove your bag into the first bin you see, and then walk to your seat in the back of the plane. You think you're clever, I know. You expect to grab your bag on your way out of the plane, selfishly inconveniencing others. I can't lie and say we flight attendants don't take some small satisfaction when we tell you "we couldn't identify the bag's owner, so we sent it to cargo." It's a security issue, for real. Carry-ons need to stay near their owners! So don't look so shocked when we say, "The signs will direct you to baggage claim. You can pick up your bag there."

3. Drag on an oversize bag that's too heavy for you to lift by yourself. I won't be compensated for any injuries I might sustain if I heft your bag into the overhead compartment on your behalf. (And other passengers shouldn't have to step up and take the risk either.) The guideline is simple: You pack it, you stack it. Try this at home as a test: After you've packed your bag, put on the shoes you plan to wear on the plane and see if you can lift it and place it on top of your refrigerator. You can't? Pay the (typically $15) fee and check the bag.

4. Gripe that you haven't been seated in a roomy exit row seat. The exit rows weren't created as a reward for people who are tall, overweight, or just plain nice. They were designed to help passengers get out of the plane in an emergency. The people seated in an exit row must be able to see and speak clearly, open the emergency door, and help others. I prefer to see uniformed military, firefighters, law enforcement officers, or off-duty pilots and flight attendants sitting in those seats. While the gate agent may assign exit-row seats first, the flight attendant makes the final determination about who gets to sit in them. And the quality of our choices is one of the frequent concerns of Federal Aviation Administration officials when they audit airlines for safety practices. So please don't complain. I'm just doing my job.

5. Act like you don't know the meaning of the words "Under the seat in front of you." Some day, I will be muttering, "under the seat in front of you" in the old-age home for flight attendants. What is it that's so mysterious about the phrase? To be clear, items should not be stowed behind your calves, under your feet like a footstool, in the open seat next to you, or in your lap. It's pretty clear: It's under the seat in front of you. And it applies to everything you carry onboard. Items stored carelessly can trip others, or dislodge during takeoff and get lost or inconvenience others. And while I'm on the topic: Please don't wrap your purse (or umbrella strap) around your ankle to keep from forgetting it. What will happen in an emergency, when every second counts and there's no time to disentangle your precious bag? Will you drag it ball-and-chain-style down the aisle of a burning plane?

6. Complain about the high price of flying. When I hear people complain about coach airfares, I know they're not keeping up with the news. Fares have rarely been cheaper. In recent years, it's not uncommon for you to be able to cross the continent for under $130-each way with a maximum of one layover. It's a bargain! At that price, you're barely paying for the fuel to get your body there-never mind the cost to ship your 50 pounds of gear. You're already on the "gravy plane." People point to first-class ticketholders and want to know why they don't get the same treatment. Wake up, folks: You're getting a great deal. If you want even more, pay more!

7. Think that because you're on an airplane you're off-duty as a parent. Stop expecting us to have spare diapers, formula, medicine, toys, playing cards, or batteries for DVD players or Gameboys. Come on, now. It's an airplane, not a 7-11. Take your kid to the restroom before you board. Leave the dry cereal and Legos at home and bring snacks and toys for your kids that won't make a horrible mess.

Written by Budget Travel Editors...

Would you like to send this article to a friend? Go to http://www.budgettravel.com/ac-bt/bt-dyn/emailafriend?contentId=AR2009050603392&sent=no&referrer=emailarticle

Sky Lodge in Park City

The Sky Lodge in Park City is offering amazing deals for the "insiders". My friend Bill at the Sky Lodge is offering a 2 bedroom suite at $199 for the first 15 days in June. The restaurants are also offering a 1/2 price entree deal. Its like Christmas in June for a fraction of the price! Sky Lodge is my favorite, check it out with your family or take another couple. 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and outdoor Hot Tub on the deck.
Bill Ekblad, Director of Sales and Marketing
Ph 435-658-9427
Fax 435-615-6751
bekblad@TheSkyLodge.com

Disney Cruise offering Ship Board Credit

Disney has never been big on discounting, but they are definitely into providing value added incentives when everyone else is cutting prices. Call it what you want, providing $700 in ship board credit is good news.

Book a Verandah Stateroom, Receive Up to $700 Onboard Credit

This summer, you can escape on an exciting 7-night Caribbean Cruise and receive up to a $700* onboard credit from Disney Cruise Line®! Offer available on most sailings June 20 - Aug. 8, 2009.

Book a verandah stateroom during a 4-night sailing and receive up to a $400* onboard credit on most sailings June 28 to Aug. 9, 2009 - or a 3-night sailing to receive up to a $300* onboard credit on most sailings June 25 - Aug. 6, 2009.

With this special offer, youcan explore a wide range of activities and experiences. For example, they can use onboard credits for shore excursions, souvenirs and more - including rejuvenating spa treatments!

More Details:

This offer is for new bookings only in Categories 3-7.
Must mention booking code RAMA
Not combinable with other offers
Onboard credit is per stateroom and is non-refundable and non-transferable.
*Offer is subject to availability. Changes to the vacation date or category may result in a loss of any offer. See Disney Cruise Line brochure for cruise details and applicable terms and conditions.

You can contact your favorite travel professional for bookings.

Tourists and Locals can take advantage of Connect Pass in SLC

I heard about the Salt Lake Connect Pass and had to have the Salt Lake Convention and Visitors Bureau on the show. Most people listening to the show today are either locals or visiting from out of town and wondering what else to do on Memorial Day. Well here you go.... The Salt Lake Connect Pass.

A great way to see it all in Salt Lake. Get ready to see any place, at any pace. The Visit Salt Lake Connect Pass lets you set your own schedule with paid access to the Salt Lake area's most famous and fascinating attractions. You provide the transportation. We'll provide the fun AND the savings

The Visit Salt Lake Connect Pass allows you to be your own personal tour guide of everything Salt Lake has to offer—just take your pass and go. Available in 1-, 2-, or 3-day increments, your Salt Lake Connect Pass is activated the first time you use it and will remain active for the number of consecutive days purchased, however the pass is limited to one (1) visitation at each participating attraction. (Transportation not included)

REGULAR ATTRACTION PRICES Adults Seniors(65+) Child(3-12) Free Admission

Clark Planetarium - IMAX $8.00 $8.00 $6.00 NONE

Clark Planetarium - Star Show $8.00 $8.00 $6.00 NONE

Discovery Gateway $9.50 $9.50 $9.50 under 1

The Living Planet Aquarium $8.50 $7.50 $6.50 2 & under

Lunch @ The Lion House Pantry $9.95 $9.95 $9.95 NONE

Red Butte Garden $6.00 $4.00 $4.00 3 & under

This Is The Place Heritage Park $8.00 $5.00 $6.00 2 & under

Utah's Hogle Zoo $8.00 $6.00 $6.00 2 & under

Utah Museum of Fine Arts $7.00 $5.00 $5.00 5 & under

Utah Museum of Natural History $6.00 $3.50 $3.50 2 & under

Snowbird Scenic Foot Passenger
Tram Ride $12.00 $10.00 $10.00 6 & under

Thanksgiving Point - Gardens $10.00 $9.00 $6.00 2 & under

Tracey Aviary                $5.00 $4.00 $3.00 2 & under 

Thanksgiving Point -
Museum of Ancient Life $10.00 $8.00 $8.00 2 & under

Utah Olympic Park - Guided Tour $7.00 $5.00 $5.00 2 & under

Combined Attractions Price $122.95 $102.45 $94.45
 
Savings Up to $102.95!

CONNECT PASS PRICING Adults Seniors(65+) Child(3-12)  
1-Day Connect Pass $20 $18 $16  
2-Day Connect Pass $30 $27 $24  
3-Day Connect Pass $40 $36 $32  

See Disneyland Resort in a Whole New Light this Summer

You can see the Disneyland® Resort in a whole new light as SUMMER NIGHTASTIC! generates high-energy excitement, from June 12 – Aug. 23, 2009. This special summertime event features favorite nighttime entertainment re-imagined with spectacular, state-of-the-art effects – plus an all-new fireworks show!

Watch in awe as Fantasmic! ignites the night with awesome new, lifelike creatures – like a 40 ft.-tall, fire-breathing dragon – and amazing HD animation that practically leaps off the giant mist screens!

Brighten the night with a more-dazzling-than-ever Disney’s Electrical Parade, led by Tinker Bell in a brand-new scene, and with two classic scenes making their triumphant return!

Celebrate Disney “magic makers” with Magical, a breathtaking, all-new fireworks spectacular. Bursts of vivid color and brilliant visual effects dance in the sky as beloved Disney songs fill the air.

Get the party on at the TLT Dance Club. From sundown to Park closing, seven nights a week, Tomorrowland is home to one of the summer’s hottest dance venues – hosted by local radio DJs on weekdays, and featuring live bands on the weekends!

Follow the twinkling trail to Pixie Hollow, where every quarter-hour Tinker Bell and her Disney Fairy friends unite their hidden talents in a sparkling, twinkling light show.

Get 2 More Nights FREE, when you buy 3!
Offer: Get 2 More Nights FREE, when you buy 3!
Description: Get 2 extra hotel nights – plus 2 extra days of Theme Park admission –
FREE with the purchase of a 3-night or longer vacation package.
Booking Window: 3/24/09 – 8/11/09
Travel Dates: 4/1/09 – 9/26/09 for Disneyland® Resort Hotel and 5/1/09 – 9/26/09 for
Disneyland® Resort Good Neighbor Hotel stays
Travel Completed By: 10/1/09

Contact your favorite Travel Agent for more details...

CDC downgrades warning and resorts are promising a Flu-Free Stay

The Center for Disease Control downgrades the travel warning to Mexico. updated May 15, 2009 http://wwwn.cdc.gov/travel/content/travel-health-precaution/novel-h1n1-flu-mexico.aspx

Some Resorts in Mexico are offering a Flu-Free vacation. Its a guarantee that in the rare event you do contract H1N1 during your stay at the resort, your next three vacations are free. www.secretsresorts.com/special-offers.asp#flu-free

This weeks KSL Insider Deal

12:20pm and 1:20pm

KSL Insider Deal # 1 is a "Brazil Now" package which is 70% off. The offer is only valid thru the Brazilian Tour Operators Association.

KSL Insider Deal #2 is an À La Carte Package at Red Mountain Resort and Spa including: Accommodations for only $179 per room (single or double occupancy) with High-Speed Internet, use of indoor & seasonal outdoor pools, walking trails & fitness center.

Stealing from the Hotel?

Have you ever taken the amenities; shampoo or soap? A hanger? The letterhead? or maybe something more substantial? Is it stealing or is it a gift from the hotel included with the room rates. Besides wouldn't there be a note that the item is for sale or you will be charged for it?

I think most of the smaller items are OK to take home. The marketing gurus want you to remember what a great time you had at their hotel. But have you ever taken larger items? What about the hanger? Is that a gray area? You don’t really need it, just has a great logo that would look nice in your closet.

Have you ever been to a hotel where you love the key? I don't mean an electronic key, but rather a real key with a logo on the keychain. I love those and quite frankly, cant resist. There was a time when I had to have the match box from every hotel I stayed, it was an obsession. I was able to stop the habit cold turkey after the house almost went up in flames.

Most hotels do want you to take amenities with logos, but some of the more substantial items should stay in the room like ash trays, sheets, pillow cases, umbrellas, silverware, plates, alarm clock, CD/DVD player, towels and bathrobes. These items can be for sale thru the hotel and their websites. www.shopmarriott.com, www.hyattathome.com, and www.whotelsthestore.com are a few that I have used.

I enjoyed the article from our friends at Travel + Leisure Magazine, Stealing Hotel Amenities: Right or Wrong? by Lynn Yaeger. www.travelandleisure.com/articles/stealing-hotel-amenities-right-or-wrong Lynn admits to finding the heavy ivory linen dry cleaning bag irresistible. What do you find irresistible?

KSL Insider Deals

I was in the studio today recording two insider deals for an e-mail blast going out to 90k listeners. One international and one domestic. Red Mountain Spa in Southern Utah and a killer travel deal to Brazil

The Sky Lodge officially makes Park City “Hip”

The location can’t be beat. Just off Park City’s Historic Main Street, The Sky Lodge has been in the making for over 10 years. The Rocky Mountain Loft style brings the Rocky Mountains to Soho.

I thought the bathrooms were great. The free standing tubs being filled from the ceiling, the unique water basins added to the freshness of the hotel. Each suite has a balcony with a hot tub with great views of Old Town or the Park City mountains.

Being a meeting and event planner, I loved the Rooftop Sky Club opening up to a wrap around radiant heated deck with 8 person hot tub. Le Bar Boheme is rich with woods and old world touches located in the historic Utah Coal and Lumber building.

The Amatsu spa adds to the vibe of the Sky Lodge. Organic, Zen-Influenced, Luxuriate, were all descriptions that came to mind while enjoying the traditional Japanese bamboo ofuro tubs.

After staying a night, I can see why this unique property took its time in coming to fruition.

Bill Shoaf, Managing Director talks about the building and design of The Sky Lodge.
http://www.theskylodge.com/video.php

My Driver was wrong about Charlotte, North Carolina

When we arrived to Charlotte I asked the driver what there was to see in and around Charlotte. He thought for a moment and said Bars and Clubs. Probably not the greatest ambassador for Charlotte. After spending some time in this great city, I would definitely give it thumbs up. By the way, the official Tourism website is trying to change the “driver’s mentality”, find out more by going to www.charlottesgotalot.com


My Black Book pick…. Joe Gibbs Racing Facility, if you can get a private tour. I was mesmerized by the facility, workers, cars and setup. Again, because I was able to walk the floors with an insider and see how the cars are assembled from scratch, it made all the difference. www.joegibbsracing.com


Lowes Motor Speedway, formerly Charlotte Motor Speedway is an amazing experience. A few ways to experience it….

Feel the Thrill Tour includes a close-up look at areas that are off-limits on race days. Visit the Sprint Cup garage, travel down pit road and take a picture in Victory Circle. The highlight of this half-hour tour is a comfortable van ride around the superspeedway where you will feel the full-tilt force of the 24-degree banking. Feel The Thrill Tours are available on non-event days Monday through Saturday 9:30 a.m., 10:30 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 1:30 p.m., 2:30 p.m., 3:30 p.m. and Sunday 1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Lowe's Motor Speedway hosts six companies that conduct driving schools at the speedway.

Ride-a-longs are also available courtesy of The Richard Petty Driving Experience on days following Sprint Cup race events. Feel the thrill of three laps at speeds of more than 160 mph on the world-famous Lowe's Motor Speedway during your race weekend.

Superspeedway Track Facts
• Length: 1.5 miles or 7, 920 feet
• Frontstretch: 1,980 feet
• Backstretch: 1,500 feet
• Turns 1 & 2: 2,400 feet
• Turns 3 & 4: 2,040
• Radius Turns 1 & 2: 685 feet
• Radius Turns 3 & 4: 625 feet
• Banking in corners: 24-degrees
• Banking is straightaways: 5-degrees
• Seating capacity: 140,000
• Suites: 113
Fun Facts
• There are more than 100 flagpoles located throughout the speedway property.
• The speedway has more than 1,200 toilets on property for it's fans.
• Nearly 1,500 trash cans are placed throughout speedway property to collect the 400 tons of trash that will be generated during a NASCAR event weekend.
• Three 30-foot truckloads of paper products (paper towels/toilet paper) will be used at race time.
• Lowe's Motor Speedway ground crews use 17 tractors and 11 lawn mowers to keep the speedway's nearly 2,000 acres manicured.
• On Coca-Cola 600 race day, the nearly 180,000 people at Lowe's Motor Speedway make it the fourth largest city in North Carolina behind Charlotte, Raleigh and Greensboro.
• The land Lowe's Motor Speedway now occupies was the site of a working plantation during the Civil War.
• George Washington ate lunch and rested in a house that once served as the speedway's office.
• The small one-fifth-mile paved oval located outside the turn -three tunnel is known as "Outback Speedway," because it's located "outback."
• The inner perimeter road around Lowe's Motor Speedway is named in honor of three-time NASCAR Sprint Cup Series champion Darrell Waltrip, a five-time winner of the Coca-Cola 600.

Where would you travel to if you only had 30 days to live?

Would you go somewhere you have been that makes you happy? Somewhere you have dreamed about going your entire life? International, domestic, far, close, exotic, familiar?

A friend of mine is answering this very question. His wife has an inoperable brain tumor and treatments have been exhausted. What to do in the next 30 days? They have four young children so they decided on “the happiest place on earth”, Disney Land.

It’s a tough question. I think I would go from place to place and show my family all the wonderful places and cultures I have experienced. Machu Picchu, Easter Island, the Atacama, the Patagonia, the Amazon, Ngorongoro Crater, Serengeti, Victoria Falls, Iguassu Falls, the Great Pyramids, Marrakesh, New York and all the other places that make you feel alive.

Large Marge has to buy two seats on United Airlines

Have you ever sat next to someone too large to fit in the airline seat? No way to put the arm rest down? The flight attendant brings a seat belt extender and even that does not work?

United has joined the ranks of other airlines and will remove the large passenger to two adjoining empty seats and if not available, they will be removed from the plane and asked to purchase an additional seat on the next available flight. If the passenger refuses to purchase another ticket, they will be denied boarding and refunded the original amount of their ticket.

How would you like to be the customer service representative that day?

Fabulous Singapore Stopover for $1

Normally I wouldn’t bat an eye for a stopover program as many international carriers offer a free stopover, but they usually don’t include transfers, hotels, and entrance fees for a dollar!

Singapore Airlines announced the “Fabulous Singapore Stopover” for $1. The offering is valid thru September 15. Which I feel is generous considering most deals are valid within the next 30 days. The hotels are divided into six categories. The lowest category hotel is available for the dollar promotion with a surcharge fee of $132 per person to upgrade to the highest category which would include the Ritz Carlton and Shangri la.

Other nice features include upgrades to a private car, late check-out, additional nights, and early check-in. Of course this is all for a fee, and a reasonable one at that.

This is what’s included for your $1…..

• Hotel Accommodation for one night at hotel in applicable price category
• 50% discount on the à la carte food menu only at the designated food outlet in the passenger's hotel.
• Airport-hotel-airport transfers on seat-in-coach basis.
• Free rides on SIA Hop-on Bus and SIA Hop-on Sentosa Shuttle.
• Free SingTel Hi! Card
• Free admission to seven attractions
• Jurong Bird Park
• Malay Heritage Centre
• National Orchid Garden
• Peranakan Museum
• Sentosa Island Resort
• Singapore River Cruises
• The Singapore Zoo
• S$10 Changi Airport Shopping voucher usable at all dining and retail outlets.
• Discounts on shopping, dining, sightseeing tours and attractions as listed in the SIA Boarding Pass Privileges programme. Visit singaporeair.com/boardingpass for details.