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US AIRWAYS HALTS MERGER TALKS WITH UNITED
(source: Business Travel News)
In its first public acknowledgement that it has been in merger discussions, US Airways said it has halted such talks with United Airlines, casting the industry's eyes toward Continental Airlines as United's likely suitor, though both carriers remain mum.
US Airways CEO Doug Parker in a statement said, "We have recently held discussions with United Airlines regarding a possible combination between our two airlines. After an extensive review and careful consideration, our board of directors has decided to discontinue those discussions."
Continental president and CEO Jeff Smisek during the carrier's first-quarter earnings call, however, would not comment on what he called "recent press speculation concerning potential consolidation in our industry." Still, he told analysts and media, "As you would expect of a responsible management team, we are examining Continental's options and will take whatever action we deem to be in the best interest of our co-workers, stockholders, customers and the communities we serve. Neither I nor my colleagues will be commenting any further on consolidation matters at this time."
US Airways, which failed to consummate a takeover of Delta Air Lines in 2007 but successfully acquired America West two years earlier, long has been a proponent of domestic airline consolidation. Parker said the company remains so, even if it's not part of the action. "It remains our belief that consolidation makes sense in an industry as fragmented as ours," Parker said. "Whether we participate or not, consolidation that leads to a more efficient industry better able to withstand economic volatility, global competition and the cyclical nature of our industry is a positive outcome."
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AMERICAN AIRLINES DELAYS START OF CHICAGO-BEIJING FLIGHTS
(source: USA Today)
American Airlines is delaying the launch of flights between Chicago's O'Hare International Airport and Beijing until it gets approval for certain takeoff and landing times from Chinese authorities.
The airline, based in Fort Worth, is tentatively delaying the start of flights until May 4. It claims Chinese aviation officials haven't given it the times it asked for in October.
American was scheduled to start service on Monday. The airline is rebooking customers on other flights or offering full refunds.
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LESSONS FROM THE ICELANDIC VOLCANO ERUPTION
(source: New York Times featuring Jack Ezon, President Ovation Vacations)
The unprecedented number of flight cancellations — more than 100,000 between April 15 and 21 — affected millions of travelers, and the fallout is expected to cost the airline industry $1.7 billion.
While such a widespread shutdown of airspace is rare, even run-of-the-mill storms can wreak havoc on travel plans. The main takeaway for travelers? Prepare to rely on your own wits — and wallet — if you're ever caught up in a travel meltdown.
On the other hand, having a travel agent in your corner can mean the difference between being stranded for days and finding a quicker way home. Jack Ezon, president of Ovation Vacations in New York City, said that his agency booked stranded clients on Cunard Line's Queen Mary 2 sailing from England to New York, helped others find train tickets or share bus rides, and advocated for refunds on behalf of customers getting stonewalled.
"Our job is to try to come up with solutions — good or bad, realistic or not — to help our clients," Mr. Ezon said. "There is a sense of panic, and some people tell us, 'I don't want to be here, I don't know what's going to happen, just get me home.' "
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THE LAWYERS' TRAVEL SERVICE PREFERRED HOTEL PARTNERS PROGRAM
GARDEN CITY HOTEL
45 Seventh Street
Garden City, NY
The Garden City Hotel has welcomed Royalty, Presidents and Heads of State to its hotel where guests experience impeccable service and gracious hospitality. Whether in town for business meetings, social celebrations or simply a weekend getaway, the attentive staff ensures that every stay is a delight.
The hotel offers 280 guestrooms, including 16 Suites and 4 Penthouse Suites; each elegantly decorated room includes fine linens, high speed wireless Internet access, in room safe, daily newspaper, refreshment center and evening turndown service.
Guest amenities include Fitness Center, indoor swimming pool, Jacuzzi, sauna, business center, salon, childcare services, pet-friendly, gift shop, concierge services and bicycling in the charming village of Garden City.
The hotel has 25,000 square feet of meeting and banquet facilities together with an award-winning culinary team for the travelers' next event.
With its chic, inviting atmosphere, highly-rated cuisine and attentive staff, a visit to Rein, the hotel's signature restaurant is truly unique. It serves breakfast, lunch, dinner and includes late night dining, Saturday Afternoon Tea and Sunday Brunch. The Bar features small plate menu items, acclaimed wines, designer cocktails, hand-crafted distilled spirits and of course, an endless supply of lively conversation. Rein extends from the restaurant to an outdoor patio during warm weather months. Dine Different at Rein!-24-hour, in-room dining, serving up a first-class menu, for fine dining in the comfort of the guest room or suite
The Lawyers' Travel Service Preferred Hotel Partners Program rate at the Garden City Hotel is $185 (compared to a corporate rate of $240).*
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THE LAWYERS' TRAVEL SERVICE PREFERRED HOTEL PARTNERS PROGRAM
GRAND HYATT WASHINGTON
1000 H Street NW
Washington, D.C.
Escape to extraordinary elegance, while experiencing the excitement of the city at the Grand Hyatt Washington. With convenient lobby Metro Center access, Grand Hyatt Washington is ideally located in the heart of downtown DC's Penn Quarter district. Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport and Union Station are accessible by car or Metro.
The newest dining option is Cure. Cure takes its name from the age-old tradition of curing foods. The style of service helps pair food and beverages to create the perfect palate for guests' personal taste profile. Food preparation entails spicing, drying, salting & smoking to enhance flavors. The Grand Hyatt Washington's wine, beer & spirit selections are extensive.
CURE SPECIALS
Daily Wine & Beer Tasting 4pm-7pm 3 Wines or 3 Beers with Hors D'oeuvres
The Lawyers' Travel Service Preferred Hotel Partners Program rate at the Grand Hyatt Washington is $289 (compared to a corporate rate of $379).*
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THE LAWYERS' TRAVEL SERVICE PREFERRED HOTEL PARTNERS PROGRAM
ICON
220 Main Street
Houston
Elegantly discreet yet boldly contemporary. Grandly romantic yet personally comforting. Expect the unexpected at Hotel ICON, a recipient of Conde Nast Traveler's esteemed Gold List 2007, and the Houston destination of choice for discerning guests seeking a respite from the conventional hotel experience.
See and be seen by captains of industry, fashion enthusiasts, well-heeled international travelers and neighborhood locals lured to Hotel ICON for its many charms. An elusive blend of grand Neo-Classical architecture and dynamic contemporary appointments invite lavish comfort, intimacy and modern efficiency at the confluence of downtown Houston's dynamic business, theater, legal and sports districts.
Savor mouthwatering dishes at the award-winning VOICE restaurant. Vamp openly in the city's most flirtatious lounge. Relish a relaxing massage or other indulgence at the Balance day spa or in your own suite's lavish bathroom. Challenge oneself with custom equipment in an expansive 24-hour executive fitness center. Host an exquisite, mesmerizing event, or meeting in the ICON's nearly 7,000 square feet of elegantly appointed meeting and event space.
Defy conventional expectations. Expect more from a hotel, not less. Expect Hotel ICON to delight, surprise and reward travelers at every turn.
The Lawyers' Travel Service Preferred Hotel Partners Program rate at the Icon is $159 (compared to a corprate rate of $197).*
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THE LAWYERS' TRAVEL SERVICE PREFERRED HOTEL PARTNERS PROGRAM
JUMEIRAH CARLTON TOWER
On Cadogan Place
London
The essence of Knightsbridge
Voted 'Best UK Business Hotel' at the Conde Nast Reader's Travel Awards 2008 - Jumeirah Carlton Tower is situated in the heart of fashionable Knightsbridge and located within walking distance from the prestigious Harrods and Harvey Nichols department stores, and luxury designer boutiques lining Sloane Street.
Synonymous with sophistication and luxury, Jumeirah Carlton Tower overlooks the private gardens of Cadogan Place with spectacular views over London's skyline.
The hotel's three restaurants; The Rib Room, Chinoiserie and Club Room, offer an abundant selection of mouth-watering cuisine.
In addition, the hotel has one of the most exclusive health clubs in London. Guests can enjoy the exclusive Peak Health Club & Spa, offering a fully equipped gym, a state-of-the-art golf simulator, aerobics studio, sauna, steam room, award-winning Spa and a 20 metre stainless steel heated indoor pool.
The Lawyers' Travel Service Preferred Hotel Partners Program rate at the Jumeirah Carlton Tower is £255 (compared to a corporate rate of £260).*
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THE LAWYERS' TRAVEL SERVICE PREFERRED HOTEL PARTNERS PROGRAM
SOHO GRAND HOTEL
310 West Broadway
New York City
The Soho Grand is downtown Manhattan's original hotel pioneer; the first to introduce the luxury boutique hotel experience to downtown Manhattan. The hotel is located in New York City's most sought after neighborhood, alongside world renowned art galleries, boutiques and restaurants. Since its debut, the Soho Grand has emerged as a modern classic, offering a refined clientele impeccable service, luxurious accommodations, stunning decor and a vibrant, local take on dining, nightlife, and entertainment.
This summer Soho Grand will unveil ten new, beautifully designed, custom suites; each will feature separate living and sleeping quarters, hardwood floors and custom furnishings, allowing for over 650 square feet of luxurious living. Also being introduced for summer is Soho's Club Room, the new exclusive lounge that will for certain transform into one of the most popular and sophisticated nightlife destinations in New York City.
The newly unveiled Penthouse at the Soho Grand's spacious Penthouse Lofts, include expansive private outdoor areas with stunning city views. Guestrooms and Suites combine luxury and comfort with state of the art technology to reflect the needs of both the business and leisure traveler. Each are equipped with Frette Egyptian Bed and Bath Linen, toiletries from Malin + Goetz, complimentary high speed wireless internet connection as well as flat screen TVs and Sony speaker docks. Through a combination of eye catching interiors and 24 hour guest services, Soho Grand offers visitors an unparalleled downtown New York experience.
The Lawyers' Travel Service Preferred Hotel Partners Program rate at the Soho Grand Hotel is $290 (compared to a corprate rate of $355).*
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THE LAWYERS' TRAVEL SERVICE PREFERRED HOTEL PARTNERS PROGRAM
W CHICAGO – LAKESHORE
644 North Lake Shore Drive
Chicago
A New Beginning
There is a moment when the sun sparkles through the window and one awakes to the sky, unfurling over Lake Michigan. W Chicago - Lakeshore, the only hotel overlooking the lake, is close to Navy Pier and has a flip-flop perfect beach next door.
Urban Renewal
Slip out of tension at Bliss Chicago's 9,600 square foot spa dedicated to erasing stress. Then flirt with the glittering skyline and drinks at Rande Gerber's nightclub Whiskey Sky or over an inventive Mediterranean dinner at Wave.
The Big Picture
Admire the city and lake views, or slide the shade closed for a sweet escape. Indulge in the legendary Bliss lemon + sage Sinkside Six. Then dive into dreams atop the featherbed and down pillows that comfort each of the 520 deluxe guest rooms.
The Lawyers' Travel Service Preferred Hotel Partners Program rate at the W Chicago – Lakeshore is $229 (compared to a corprate rate of $296).*
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* All rates are subject to availability.
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The Lawyers' Travel Service
www.lawyerstravel.com
info@lawyerstravel.com
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