AIR FRANCE TO CHARGE FOR SECOND CHECKED BAG Air France will begin to charge $50 to check a second piece of luggage on flights departing from the U.S. and €50 for flights departing from Europe. The new fee will apply to economy-class passengers traveling with tickets issued on November 1, 2009 or later. Passengers will still be able to check one bag, weighing up to 50 pounds, free of charge, while the fee to check bags weighing between 50 and 70 pounds will double to $100 or €100, depending on the point of departure. Flying Blue Platinum, Gold and Silver members; SkyTeam Elite and Elite Plus Frequent Flyer members; and passengers traveling on special Seaman's fares are exempt from the fee when traveling on an economy-class ticket. Meanwhile, baggage rules remain unchanged for passengers flying in first or business class. AMTRAK TO UPGRADE ACELA WITH FREE WI-FI Amtrak plans to launch free wireless Internet on Acela Express trains in the second quarter of next year, according to a five-year plan released Thursday. The government-owned rail provider said Wi-Fi installation already is underway on Acela Express trains, which serve Boston, New York and Washington, D.C. "This service will initially be offered at no cost to our customers," Amtrak said in its financial plan, "though pricing may change depending on customer response, system performance and costs." Amtrak expects the free service to help increase ridership, adding $4.3 million in incremental revenue through the end of fiscal year 2014, according to Amtrak estimates. In addition to Acela, Amtrak said it is preparing to extend Wi-Fi to other services, "depending on market response," with Northeast Regional trains likely the first. RENTAL CAR TAXES ARE GETTING JACKED UP Anyone renting a car in Maine would be paying the state 12.5% of their bill in excise taxes starting last month if the legislature there had its way. But residents blocked the state's new tax-reform law — which included a tax increase from 10% to 12.5% on rental car bills — by signing petitions in opposition. If the signatures on the petitions turn out to be valid, the increase will be put to a vote in June, says Sara Lewis, a Maine taxation official. The action in Maine represents something of a victory for business travelers, corporate travel departments and rental-car companies who are increasingly upset over what's been an explosion in taxes imposed on renting a car. Airline fees "are bad, but the worst are car-rental taxes," says frequent business traveler Tony Harrison, who has rented cars 75 days so far this year and paid upwards of 20% of his bill in taxes in some cities. The taxes are tough to avoid. There were 114 separate state and local excise taxes for renting or leasing a car in 43 states and the District of Columbia as of the end of last year. In 1990, there were only 14 of them, according to the Coalition Against Discriminatory Car Rental Excise Taxes, a group formed to combat the proliferation of the taxes and which tracks them. The taxes can cost a Fortune 100 company $5 million to $10 million a year, figures Michael McCormick, executive director of the National Business Travel Association, which represents about 4,000 corporate travel managers and suppliers. Rental-car companies aren't happy with them either. They don't want to be tax collectors. Nor do they want to hear disgruntled renters complain about the charges on their bills. So three years ago, eight rental-car brands and the National Business Travel Association formed the coalition to publicize the taxes, educate consumers about them and lobby against them. The rental-car business is one of many affected by tax increases designed to narrow budget gaps. For many lawmakers in some states it's more palatable politically to propose a tax on rental cars, which can be sold as one paid by visitors, than it is to propose an income tax or other broad tax affecting all state residents.
THE LAWYERS' TRAVEL SERVICE PREFERRED HOTEL PARTNERS PROGRAM
Named after Chicago's renowned North Michigan Avenue, NoMI features contemporary French cuisine with a global flair, prepared with the finest and freshest ingredients. The 120-seat Tony Chi designed restaurant is nestled on the seventh floor of Park Hyatt Chicago. Enjoy breathtaking views of Lake Michigan and Water Tower Park; an extensive wine collection and exquisite private dining facilities. NoMI in Chicago is among an elite group honored by Wine Spectator with a "Best of Award of Excellence" and "Award of Ultimate Distinction." Among many other awards, the distinguished downtown Chicago restaurant was named one of the "Top 10 Power Dining Spots in the World" by Forbes and the only U.S. "Best Hotel Restaurant" in the world selected by Food & Wine magazine in 2009. The Lawyers' Travel Service Preferred Hotel Partners Program rate at the Park Hyatt Chicago is $325 (compared to a corporate rate of $475).*
THE LAWYERS' TRAVEL SERVICE PREFERRED HOTEL PARTNERS PROGRAM
Delight in California charm at this Landmark hotel that played host to The Beatles, past presidents and even royalty. Nestled within 5 acres of mature trees and a creek, the hotel has the largest pool and Cabana area in Palo Alto, and most of their rooms have magnificent views, a private balcony or patio. Style and personality starts with a spectacular entrance through the lobby, where traditional detailing pays tribute to European flavors of plaster walls, stone flooring and subdued colors. The Crowne Plaza Cabana Hotel-Palo Alto combines luxurious amenities of a vacation destination with high tech necessities of today's savvy business traveler. Complimentary fiber optic wired and wireless Internet services are available throughout all public areas and guest rooms, a 24 hour executive Center with PC and complimentary printing, and complimentary morning shuttle within 5 miles. Guests can dine alfresco in the hotel's courtyard or delight in 24 hour room service and favorable cuisine at 4290 Bistro & Bar which is open 7 days a week, with live entertainment Friday and Saturday evenings and an Extensive Sunday Brunch. Crowne Plaza Cabana Hotel-Palo Alto is one of few hotels in California powered by Solar Energy and accredited with the highest State and Regional Green Certification status providing a responsible commitment to the environment. Located minutes to Stanford University, HP, Google, SAP, Intuit, to name a few, the 194 room Crowne Plaza Cabana Hotel-Palo Alto meets social, business and group travel needs. The hotel even offers an onsite putting green. The Lawyers' Travel Service Preferred Hotel Partners Program rate at the Crowne Plaza Cabana Hotel & Resort is $179 (compared to a corporate rate of $199).*
THE LAWYERS' TRAVEL SERVICE PREFERRED HOTEL PARTNERS PROGRAM
Convenience: * 20 minutes from San Francisco International * Located in the heart of the financial district * On the famous California cable car line Guest Comfort: * 400 square foot guestrooms * Executive desk * 24-hour Room Service * Twice-daily housekeeping * Windows that open * Pillow top mattresses Complimentary Services: * T-1 high speed internet access * 24-hour fitness center * Downtown car service * In-room laptop safes * Wireless in public areas Awards & Recognition: * AAA Four Diamond Award * Condé Nast 2005 Gold List * DiRona Award winning Bob's Steak & Chop House The Lawyers' Travel Service Preferred Hotel Partners Program rate at the Omni San Francisco is $250 (compared to a corporate rate of $269).*
THE LAWYERS' TRAVEL SERVICE PREFERRED HOTEL PARTNERS PROGRAM
Grand elegance within walking distance of the nations most cherished monuments, Capitol Hill, and the revered museums of the Smithsonian Institute. Ranked by Institutional Investor magazine as one of the top 100 hotels in the world, Mandarin Oriental, Washington DC creates memorable experiences for any traveler to the most powerful city in the World. The Mandarin Oriental, Washington DC offers interiors that blend Asian elegance with traditional style. Guests enjoy wonderful views over the stately city sights and waterfront. Guests staying in Tai Pan Club Rooms and Suites can take advantage of Tai Pan services and amenities. At Mandarin Oriental, Washington DC the menus are as stylish as the surroundings. Whether one is dining at CityZen or eating at Sou'Wester the dishes are sure to delight. And for a relaxing drink or cocktails, the Empress Lounge is the perfect place to unwind, whether indoors or alfresco on the riverside terrace. The Lawyers' Travel Service Preferred Hotel Partners Program rate at the Mandarin Oriental, Washington DC is $295 (compared to a corporate rate of $495).*
THE LAWYERS' TRAVEL SERVICE PREFERRED HOTEL PARTNERS PROGRAM
Privacy remains the ultimate luxury at Royal Palms Resort and Spa. Enchanting stone walkways curve throughout the property, inviting guests to indulge in a leisurely stroll amongst the fragrant citrus groves and exotic foliage. Set amidst lush courtyards and blooming gardens, their 119 beautifully appointed casitas, guestrooms, and villas surround as an oasis for guests seeking tranquility and solitude. Each room is resplendent in Old World charm, many appointed with a breathtaking collection of European antiques, tiles and artifacts. Set in the Valley of the Sun, the resort is located in the beautiful Phoenix-Scottsdale resort community, with the majestic Camelback Mountain providing a striking visual backdrop. Entering the mansion through mahogany and iron double doors, the atmosphere is that of a lavish private residence. Mirroring the Old World charm of the estate, Royal Palms' Four-Star Alvadora Spa is tranquil, warm and intimate. Nationally acclaimed T. Cook's restaurant boasts select seasonal dishes from the Mediterranean and exotic surrounding regions. The resort also offers swimming, a fitness centre and full-service salon. Featuring over 20,000 sq. ft. of meeting space, the resort's meeting salons are rich in design, character, detail and history while meeting today's need for advanced technology. Antique furniture, huge stone fireplaces and views of tranquil gardens give conference attendees the feeling they are the honored guests of a grand estate. All aspects of the resort's conference services and venues have been designed to provide a "residential" experience for meeting attendees rather than the traditional commercial ambiance. Conveniently located between the prestigious Biltmore area and popular downtown Scottsdale, Royal Palms Resort and Spa is ideally situated for business and leisure travelers with Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport only seven miles from the hotel. Unique ambiance, intimate surroundings and lush gardens evoke the sense of a faraway place, yet the resort is minutes from world-class shopping, galleries, golf and attractions. The Royal Palms Resort and Spa is one of two Phoenix hotels that is a proud member of the Historic Hotels of America National Trust for Historic Preservation. The Lawyers' Travel Service Preferred Hotel Partners Program rate at The Royal Palms Resort and Spa is $219 (compared to a corporate rate of $239).*
THE LAWYERS' TRAVEL SERVICE PREFERRED HOTEL PARTNERS PROGRAM
From transportation, theatre tickets and dinner reservations, to exotic NYC safaris, the Shoreham's staff is available 24/7 to make all the arrangements for guests during a trip to NYC. Getting something one wants usually results in a smile...the Shoreham delivers smiles. Conveniently located in midtown Manhattan on 55th Street between 5th and 6th Avenues, the Shoreham Hotel is located within walking distance of many of Manhattan's most important business addresses, the finest 5th Avenue shopping, Central Park, Broadway Theatres and Carnegie Hall. The Lawyers' Travel Service Preferred Hotel Partners Program rate at the Shoreham is $319 (compared to a corporate rate of $377).*
THE LAWYERS' TRAVEL SERVICE PREFERRED HOTEL PARTNERS PROGRAM
At Loews Vanderbilt Hotel, travelers will experience the sense of Music City from the minute one enters the doors. Choose favorite tunes from the hotel's lobby jukebox that only plays the tunes of their many celebrity guests, or smile at the subtle messages of some of Nashville's most famous songwriters, or browse the Kraus Art Gallery, featuring the fine art of colorist Harold Kraus. Curl up with a book in the club chairs. Stretch out on a king-sized bed. Or get down to business with a spacious desk and ergonomic chair. From cozy, inviting guestrooms all the way up to their sumptuous suites, the Loews Vanderbilt can accommodate in ultimate comfort. In-room Amenities: *Sealy pillow-top mattress covered in 300-thread-count, 100% cotton linens *100% combed and ringspun terry towels and bathsheets *Lather skin and body care products made from unique, effective natural ingredients *The "Ultimate Doeskin" robe by Chadsworth & Haig *Flat-screen TV *On demand movies *Iron and ironing board *Hairdryer *Wake up calls recorded by Nashville entertainers such as Vince Gill, Amy Grant and Brenda Lee *24-hour room service *Keurig single cup brewer with Emeril's Coffee *Minibar *Loews Evening Service *Complimentary newspaper delivery daily *In-room safe In-room Business Amenities: *High-speed Internet access *2 digital phone lines with voicemail Eat eclectic American cuisine in a sophisticated setting morning, noon and night and again for Sunday brunch. Fuel up for the day with Breakfast at Loews. Quench one's thirst with a drink inside the lounge or out on the patio with nightly live entertainment. Indulge at Ruth's Chris Steak House where steaks and personalities sizzle. The down-home glamour of Nashville is dished up in fine style at Loews Vanderbilt Hotel. The Lawyers' Travel Service Preferred Hotel Partners Program rate at Loews Vanderbilt is $179 (compared to a corporate rate of $225).*
* All rates are subject to availability. The Lawyers' Travel Service |
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