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DOMESTIC AIRFARES MAY FALL IN ‘09
(source: msnbc.com)
Lower airfares in North America are possible in 2009 and likely declines in occupancy levels will keep hotel room rate increases in check, according to a forecast released on Wednesday, October 22. The forecast for 2009 predicted that a weaker economy may lead to slower growth in demand for air travel in North America, making a slight decrease in air fares possible.
Weaker domestic demand and occupancy rates coupled with restrictions on business travel by companies could also moderate hotel rate increases in North America next year, the survey said.
As crude oil prices soared earlier this year, major U.S. airlines initiated more than a dozen successful fare hikes or fuel surcharges. But oil prices have since plunged from a record high above $147 in July to under $70 on Wednesday, bringing relief to airlines.
Short-haul economy-class air fares in North America next year could fall as much as 3% or rise by no more than 5% and international business class fares could rise by between 1 and 6%. The forecast expects mid-range hotel rates in North America to rise by no more than 6% or fall by up to 1%.
FLYING FROM PHILLY? LEAVE EXTRA TIME TO CHECK BAGS
A new policy started on October 17th states that you must check in any bags at Philadelphia International Airport at least 45 minutes prior to your scheduled departure time—regardless of how you check in. This change applies to domestic travel on Delta, Delta Connection® carrier and other Delta codeshare flights.
You can save time and check in online up to 24 hours before your flight or check in using your PDA, cell phone or other Internet-connected device.
The requirements for security checkpoints, carry-on bags and rules about packing your 3-ounce containers of liquids in a single quart-size, clear plastic, zip-top bag still apply.
FLU SHOTS FOR FLIERS
(source: USA Today)
A few years ago if you wanted a flu shot at an airport, you'd have to first locate the rare airport with an on-site medical clinic. Then the UIC Medical Center at O'Hare International Airport set up kiosks offering flu shots out on the concourses, near the restaurants, shops and gates.
Flu shots on the fly, even priced a bit higher than pharmacy flu shots, turned out to be a big hit with travelers. Convenience was the big factor. "Last year," says O'Hare's UIC Medical Center director Dr. John Zautcke, "we gave more than 5,000 flu shots. This year, we expect to give close to 6,000 vaccinations. So it's clear that it's a good thing to do."
It's such a good thing to do that the service is spreading. Last year, travelers could get flu shots in or near a dozen or so airports stretching from New York to San Francisco.
This year, the list of airports already hosting flu shot kiosks, or planning to start doing so shortly, has expanded to about two dozen. Included are Des Moines International, Cleveland Hopkins, Louisville International, Memphis International, San Diego International Airport, Sky Harbor International Airport in Phoenix and Akron-Canton. Some airports are hiring outside companies to operate and staff the flu-shot kiosks, others are partnering with local hospitals or health departments.
THE LAWYERS' TRAVEL SERVICE PREFERRED HOTEL PARTNERS PROGRAM
ST. REGIS
125 3rd Street
San Francisco
 The St. Regis San Francisco is honored with Mobil Five Star Award, Conde Nast Traveler, Gold List 2007, Cigar Aficionado, “Best New Urban Hotels,” 2007.
Ideally located next door to San Francisco Museum of Modern Art and Yerba Buena Center for the Arts and in the center of the city’s cultural arts neighborhood. Only Steps away from member firms and corporations, premier dining, shopping and entertainment.
Guest Room Amenities:
*In-room fax/ copier / printer with individually assigned telephone number
*Complimentary same day shoe shine, choice of morning newspaper delivery and bottled water upon arrival and turndown
*Spacious guestrooms furnished with the finest finishes, including abundant workspace, Pratesi linens, deep soaking tub with separate rainfall shower and luxurious Remède Spa guest room amenities
*42” plasma screen televisions and CD / DVD
*Signature St. Regis Butler service
*Dining, Spa and Fitness Center
*Enjoy seasonal, local, organic cuisine for breakfast or lunch in Vitrine or twenty-four hour in-room-dining. The signature restaurant, Ame, features new American cuisine with an emphasis on sea food, including a striking sashimi bar.
*Exclusive spa that epitomizes sophistication, indulgence and technological innovation
*Full-service fitness center, TechnoGym fitness exercise equipment and 50-foot indoor infinity lap pool
The Lawyers' Travel Service Preferred Hotel Partners Program rate is $310 (compared to a corporate rate of $649).
THE LAWYERS' TRAVEL SERVICE PREFERRED HOTEL PARTNERS PROGRAM
MILLENNIUM BOSTONIAN
26 North Street
Boston
 Overlooking Faneuil Hall and Quincy Market, Millennium Bostonian is the ideal location for discovering all that the historic and unique city of Boston has to offer.
Stay in brand-new, stylish yet spacious guestrooms and suites. High-quality details such as pillow-top beds, Frette linens and 40-inch high-definition televisions will enhance the experience. The new lobby, inspired by the pulse of the marketplace outside, offers a contemporary look in a comfortable atmosphere. Unwind in front of a gas-burning fireplace set before original art installations and a quiet reading area. The new dining venue, North 26 Restaurant and Bar will be opening in October.
Explore over 125 shops and restaurants just outside the door. Minutes away, you’ll discover Boston Harbor, the New England Aquarium, North End restaurants and the Freedom Trail.
Centrally located and less than three miles from Logan International Airport, Millennium Bostonian is the premier choice for seasoned travelers and sight-seers alike.
The Lawyers' Travel Service Preferred Hotel Partners Program rate is $279 through November 9 (compared to a corporate rate of $385).
THE LAWYERS' TRAVEL SERVICE PREFERRED HOTEL PARTNERS PROGRAM
FAIRMONT
1717 N. Akard Street
Dallas
 In Texas, they do things in a big way, and The Fairmont Dallas is no exception. In this modern city of soaring skyscrapers, The Fairmont hotel in Dallas has, for nearly forty years, taken its place as the standard of elegance and grand style. Making its home in the Dallas Arts District, this Dallas hotel is just minutes from the Central Business District, Victory Park (home of the American Airlines Center), the Financial District, outstanding culture and entertainment activities of The Arts District, the West End Historic District known for its shopping and lively restaurants as well as the exciting upscale shops, restaurants and entertainment of the nearby West Village.
Combining hospitality, luxury and that special Texas flair, The Fairmont Hotel Dallas can accommodate grand events in lavish style as well as smaller, more intimate meetings. With this Dallas hotel’s four-star dining and newly redesigned guestrooms, nothing compares to The Fairmont Dallas – where they specialize in Turning Moments into Memories for Guests.
The Lawyers' Travel Service Preferred Hotel Partners Program rate is $185 (compared to a corporate rate of $279).
THE LAWYERS' TRAVEL SERVICE PREFERRED HOTEL PARTNERS PROGRAM
DUKES
35 St. James's Place
London
 Dukes is ideally located for London’s finest restaurants, most fashionable shops, exciting galleries and fabulous theatre productions, with excellent links to the City and Canary Wharf.
The completely renovated and upgraded luxury bedrooms and suites feature smart new fabrics and carpets, improved lighting, better use of space and up-to-the-minute key features including:
*Individually controlled air conditioning
*Wireless Broadband Internet connection
*Two line telephones and voicemail
*i-Pod speakers (available on request)
*Private bar
*24 hour room service
*Safety deposit box
*Satellite channels
*Flat Screen TV
*Hairdryer and bathrobe
*Complimentary newspaper, bottled water and shoe shine
*Complimentary access to the Health Club and 24 hour gym
*DVD player on request
The fabulous Dukes Bar, recognized worldwide for its famous martinis, now has an even richer feel with its blue velvet chairs and portrait paintings from the Dukes collection.
The Dining Room offers classic British dishes prepared simply, while desserts feature several old favorites. A great wine list includes a special reserve selection with predominantly Old World reds.
The Lawyers' Travel Service Preferred Hotel Partners Program rate is £288 including one complimentary Martini per guest during their stay.
THE LAWYERS' TRAVEL SERVICE PREFERRED HOTEL PARTNERS PROGRAM
RAPHAEL
17 Avenue Kléber
Paris
 The Hotel Raphael is a treasure in the heart of Paris. Built in 1925 and close to the Arc de Triomphe and the Champs Elysées, The Hotel Raphael is the last Parisian Palace owned by a French Family.
The Bar, in the Triangle d'Or, is an absolute must with its friendly and intimate atmosphere.
The Gastronomic restaurant proposes a "Cuisine" innovative and refined in the stunning dining room and on the rooftop terrace the luxurious garden restaurant offers a breathtaking panoramic view over Paris and its famous monuments.
After the renovation of the Suite Arc de Triomphe, 2008 will be marked by the creation of a spacious and sophisticated apartment and a magnificent view of the Eiffel Tower.
Enjoy a lunch or dinner on the 7th and top floor of the Raphael in the summer months. The Jardins Plein Ciel offer panoramic views over the whole of the capital, while the hotel's chef Philip Delahaye has devised a cold menu that also features grilled dishes cooked on the barbecue. A breath of summer up above the rooftops of Paris, with planted areas and teak furniture: fine dining an unexpected twist.
The Lawyers' Travel Service Preferred Hotel Partners Program rate at Raphael Paris is €335 (compared to a corporate rate of €395).
__________________________________________________________________________
The Lawyers' Travel Service
www.lawyerstravel.com
info@lawyerstravel.com
800.431.1112 |
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