UNITED'S NEW TWIST ON FEES: $249 FOR A YEAR United Airlines put a new twist on baggage fees this week, introducing a sort of all-you-can-carry fee for luggage. The airline said travelers could pay $249 for the right to check two bags every time they fly United or United Express for a year. The annual fee covers domestic or international flights. It also covers standard checked bags for up to eight companions traveling under the same confirmation number as the subscriber, United said. United charges $20 to check the first bag at the airport and $30 for the second. So a traveler would break even checking two bags after five trips. A family traveling together might break even or even save money on their first trip. The nation's third-largest airline called it an "introductory price." It didn't say how long the price would be available, or how high it might rise once the introductory period ends. The fee does not cover charges for oversized and overweight bags. BRITISH AIRWAYS COMPANION TICKET OFFER Fly British Airways and get a complimentary companion ticket on your next trip in any cabin. With over 300 destinations worldwide there are endless opportunities. By simply registering for this promotion and flying in any cabin on a qualifying full fare ticket, from now until January 29, 2010, you will receive a complimentary companion ticket with your next purchased ticket in any cabin. The companion ticket is valid to any of the destinations that British Airways flies worldwide, for travel January 11, 2010 through December 31, 2010. To take advantage of this offer, please register today at: http://www.britishairways.com/travel/fall09uspromo/public/en_us For more information, please see: http://www.batraveltrade.com/trade/texpromo012/public/en_us US AIRPORTS TO EXPAND BODY SCANNER USE A U.S. law enforcement agency plans to install 150 security machines at airport checkpoints that let screeners see under passengers' clothing, the agency said. The controversial body scanners, to be installed next year, will be used instead of metal detectors at checkpoints, the U.S. Transportation Security Administration said. Passengers may choose to avoid the scanners and be screened by a metal detector, but they'll be pulled aside for a pat-down, spokesman Jon Allen told United Press International. Proponents say advantages of the security scanners over a frisk are the scanners are quicker -- taking three seconds -- and people don't have to be touched in a manner some might consider offensive. Critics point out the X-ray scans produce images of the naked body, and may let screeners see otherwise confidential medical conditions, such as that a passenger uses a colostomy bag. In addition, the technology's long-term health effects are unknown, critics say. TSA has security scans at 23 airports, including three using new "backscatter X-ray" technology, which will be in the machines to be installed next year, Allen told UPI. He called the X-ray technology "very important, particularly in its ability to screen passengers for metallic and non-metallic objects." The scans are said to bounce off a person's skin and create images showing solid objects as dark areas. A screener views the images on a monitor in a locked room near a checkpoint and is unable to store them after viewing, Allen said. REGISTERED TRAVELER ATTRACTS INVESTOR Investment firm Henry Inc. this week said it signed a letter of intent with Verified Identity Pass and its primary debt holder, Morgan Stanley, to purchase some "assets and liabilities" of the dominant Registered Traveler provider, which abruptly folded this summer and took much of the industry down with it. Henry Inc. principal Alison Townley today said a relaunch of a viable Registered Traveler program would require "a close partnership with TSA," which in the past year released the program from pilot mode and largely discontinued its involvement. Since Verified Identity Pass in late June halted operations, some customers have sued the company for breach of contract, one of its competitors, Vigilant Solutions, also folded, and the sole survivor, Flo Corp., suspended operations at the only airport where it operated. Townley said if Henry Inc.'s bid to acquire the remains of Clear are successful, the firm plans on "reengaging existing customers and attracting new customers" of the program, including a plan to enroll members of Clear for free for the "balance of the term of their membership that remained unused when Clear ceased operations in June." Townley also envisions launching what she described as a "a streamlined 'fast pass' process which would allow innovations like 'same day' in-airport sales and more pricing options, while still providing certain non-security-related conveniences for members."
THE LAWYERS' TRAVEL SERVICE PREFERRED HOTEL PARTNERS PROGRAM
Boasting the largest guest rooms on the peninsula, the hotel's 123 rooms and suites are outfitted with thoughtful furnishings, original art, sumptuous marble baths and state-of-the-art technology. All offer private balconies or terraces with views of the Santa Cruz Mountains or lush courtyard gardens. At Madera, the hotel's signature restaurant, a comfortably elegant ambiance, picturesque views and outdoor terraces welcome guests and locals. Offering an open artisan wood-burning kitchen, rustic American cuisine and extensive wine list, Madera also features two private dining rooms with terraces and cozy fireplaces. Hours of indulgence may be spent at Sense, A Rosewood Spa which features 13 treatment rooms, fitness suite, salon, spa cafe, boutique, motion studio and heated outdoor pool, or enjoying nearby leisure pursuits such as golf, cycling, horseback riding, shopping and walking trails. Whether relaxing in the largest guest rooms on the Peninsula, pampering in Sense Spa or delighting in the freshest of local ingredients and flavors at Madera, guests will enjoy unparalleled attention to detail and impeccable service creating memorable and personal experiences. The Lawyers' Travel Service Preferred Hotel Partners program rate at the Rosewood Sand Hill is $285 (compared to a corporate rate of $375).*
THE LAWYERS' TRAVEL SERVICE PREFERRED HOTEL PARTNERS PROGRAM
As Atlanta's premier destination for business and leisure travelers, the exclusive hotel offers an unrivaled dimension of refined elegance, luxury and bespoke service at one of the world's best addresses. The St. Regis Atlanta features 151 luxuriously appointed guest rooms and suites, Remède Spa, 40,000 square foot Pool Piazza, over 16,800 square feet of exquisite indoor and outdoor event space with innovative Business Center, the iconic St. Regis Butler Service, a state-of-the-art fitness center and an impressive selection of world-class cuisine. Dining and entertaining at The St. Regis Atlanta is a stylish affair, ranging from enjoying world-class cuisine at the hotel's signature two-story restaurant, complete with private seating and an exquisite outdoor patio, to savoring cocktail classics at the wood-paneled bar. Guests can also sample high-quality, international wine selections in The Wine Room or enjoy the soothing sounds of live piano in the Lobby Bar. The hotel's stunning Pool Piazza will offer private cabanas, a spectacular waterfall and a casual, yet stylish, Poolside Bar & Café. The St. Regis Atlanta features the famed hallmarks of St. Regis hotels including the iconic St. Regis Butler Service, bespoke guest experiences and luxury accommodations tailored to meet the needs of global travelers. Trained in the English tradition, the butlers provide ever-present, yet unobtrusive service while anticipating guest's needs, customizing each stay according to his or her specific tastes and preferences. Ideally located in the heart of Atlanta's exclusive Buckhead community, named by Robb Report as one of the country's "Top 10 Affluent Communities," the St. Regis Atlanta offers guests access to an impressive selection of culinary options, preferred golf courses and luxury retail stores. The Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport is close by, and private aircrafts can land at DeKalb-Peachtree Airport, just 15 minutes from the hotel. The Lawyers' Travel Service Preferred Hotel Partners Program rate at the St. Regis Atlanta is $249 (compared to a corporate rate of $300).*
THE LAWYERS' TRAVEL SERVICE PREFERRED HOTEL PARTNERS PROGRAM
Sofitel offers the ultimate blend of LA style and French elegance. For business travelers, the hotel has all the amenities one could ask for. LeSpa at Sofitel Los Angeles includes both a 2,500 sq ft. gym complete with free-weights, state-of-the-art cardio machines with personal LCD televisions, and a full-service spa where you can enjoy a manicure, facial, or full-body massage. SIMON LA, a first-class restaurant, offers creative and uniquely inspired dishes inspired from the mind of celebrity chef Kerry Simon. Stone Rose Lounge by nightclub impresario Rande Gerber, combines cutting edge interiors, signature cocktails and an elite Hollywood clientele. Every facet of convenience has been considered during the multi-million dollar renovation. The new hotel accentuates lavish sophistication and chic adventure. It allows the business traveler to enjoy a bit of true Hollywood excitement while being surrounded by Beverly Hills five-star service. Located at the intersection of West Hollywood and Beverly Hills, Sofitel Los Angeles transcends at the epicenter of Hollywood glamour and fashion. With an ambiance, the likes of an urban resort, Sofitel Los Angeles has become the preferred hotel for the world's most discerning and high profile guests. The Lawyers' Travel Service Preferred Hotel Partners Program rate at the Sofitel is $219 (compared to a corporate rate of $265).* THE LAWYERS' TRAVEL SERVICE PREFERRED HOTEL PARTNERS PROGRAM
The Hotel de Russie is a luxury five-star hotel located in the heart of the beautiful city of Rome between the Spanish Steps and Piazza del Popolo on the Via del Babuino. The hotel is within easy walking distance of Rome's key attractions, fashion houses and Via Condotti. The Vatican City, with St Peter's and the Sistine Chapel, is just a ten-minute walk from the Hotel de Russie while Piazza Navona and the Trevi Fountain are also within easy access. The most unique luxury hotel in Rome, Hotel de Russie provides a stunning feature - extensive, terraced gardens, the"Secret Garden", so called because it is hidden behind the building which overlooks Via del Babuino which provide a tranquil oasis amidst the bustle of central Rome where you can dine alfresco at "Le Jardin de Russie" Restaurant or enjoy a peaceful stroll. Soft lights complete the beauty of the garden, which will host during the spring and summer the open Stravinskij Bar. The hotel also has one of Rome's best health clubs and spa with a hydropool, jacuzzi, sauna, Turkish steam bath, beauty treatments and gym. Whether visiting Rome on business or pleasure, Hotel de Russie's picturesque gardens and spa facilities combined with impeccable service will provide you with a complete escape and allow you to experience the very best of Rome. The Lawyers' Travel Service Preferred Hotel Partners Program rate at the Rocco Forte Hotel de Russie is $368 (compared to a corporate rate of $414).* *All rates are subject to availability. The Lawyers' Travel Service |
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