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Volume 8, Issue 9, March 3, 2010 |
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| Intelligence | Tourism Report |
 read the current issue |
| Silent Auction | Bid to Benefit the Mentor Foundation | |
| News | Travelers’ Thoughts On Security | Airline Partnerships | LAX Launches Expansion| In Other Airline News | New FAA Ice Regulation | |
| eTested | Pan Pacific Whistler Village Centre | |
| Dollars & Sense | Anti-Snow Package | New AA Advantages | Happy Anniversary | Hilton Makeover Offer | Spring Break Suggestions |
Tourism around the world has been a rollercoaster lately, with several tourism bureaus reporting significant declines, while others are beginning to see increases and signs of improvement. Greece experienced significant declines in 2009, its worst in 15 years. Hotels reported 7 percent fewer bookings and food and drink consumption was down by 10 percent. According to the Business Monitor International, there were 7.2 percent fewer tourists in Greece overall.
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According to an AirPlus International survey, more than 70 percent of travelers do not think global implementation of body scan technology will hurt U.S. travel. AirPlus International is a global provider of corporate travel payment solutions. The Beyond Airport Security survey showed most respondents agree that international collaboration on airport security is necessary.
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Executives from US Airways and United Airlines announced last week that both airlines are open to the possibility of a merger. United will welcome an international or domestic merger partner, while US Airways is solely looking to merge with another U.S. airline. India’s Kingfisher Airlines announced plans to join the oneworld alliance. The airline signed a memorandum of understanding, the first step toward full alliance membership. Kingfisher has applied to the Ministry of Civil Aviation in India for approval to proceed. Following approval, an exact membership date will be provided, however, the process is expected to reach completion in 2011.
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Construction has begun at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). The facility will undergo a $1.5 billion expansion project in the international terminal. With an expected completion date sometime in 2013, upgrades to the Tom Bradley International Terminal will include new restaurants, gates and passenger services. The construction should not cause any immediate disruptions for passengers, but some price increases may result.
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Iberia will resume its service between Washington, D.C. (IAD) and Madrid (MAD) on March 29. Three non-stop flights will operate on Monday, Wednesday and Friday. A Sunday flight will be added in June. Promotional fares are available on the airline website. All Nippon Airways is introducing female-only lavatories on most of its international routes.
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Government lawmakers are encouraging the Federal Aviation Administration to institute new regulations on aircraft icing. Concerns focus on rain that freezes into ice when hitting aircraft surfaces. The ice can harm aircraft by weighing down the wings, which is particularly a concern for turboprop and smaller airplanes. Lawmakers and other organizations have long been lobbying the FAA to introduce safety criteria certifying aircraft as flight worthy during those particular weather conditions.
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4299 Blackcomb Way
Whistler, British Columbia
Canada V0N 1B4
tel 604 966 5500
One month before the 2010 Winter Olympics began, I visited Whistler/Blackcomb Ski Resort, where the skiing competition was to be held. Although the weather and snow depth were perfect, the resort was quiet. Top hotels and restaurants were offering wonderful pre-Olympic price breaks before the crowds arrived.
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Sick of all the snow? Escape to the Westin Beach Resort in Fort Lauderdale. Through April 10, travelers can take advantage of the property’s anti-snow rate. Rates begin at $279 per night, with a $100 resort credit included. The property was recently transformed from the Sheraton Yankee Trader Hotel and boasts 433 guestrooms and suites, outfitted with the brand’s signature Heavenly Bed.
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American Airlines’ AAdvantage members can now earn more miles with the enhanced AAdvantage eShoppingSM mall. In conjunction with leading retailers, AA offers the opportunity to purchase gift cards, access special deals and earn miles online and in participating stores. Earn miles using a registered credit or debit card at approved retailers, including Sunglass Hut, Jos. A. Bank, Sally Beauty and Golfsmith.
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The Fairmont Hamilton Princess is gearing up to celebrate its 125th anniversary. Known as Bermuda’s Pink Palace, the hotel is an island landmark. In celebration of the milestone, the property is hosting community events, historic tours, weekend packages and restaurant offers. The festivities culminate in October with a gala and memorabilia display.
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Hilton Trinidad and Conference Centre is continuing to unveil phases of its multi-million dollar renovation. A special limited time deal is being offered to celebrate 418 renovated rooms, a new executive lounge, a coffeehouse and a business center. Book by April 30 to save 25 percent off the regular rate; the offer is valid for travel through Aug. 31.
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Looking for a spring break getaway? Consider some of these offers. The Westin Resort Aruba offers the Classic All-Inclusive Experience, starting at $519 per room and valid through Dec. 8. At the Westin Hilton Head Island Resort and Spa, the Family Fun package includes a $100 resort credit. Click here. Through April 10, the Marco Island Marriott Beach Resort in Florida is also offering a $100 resort credit.
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