| |
CONTROVERSIAL SELF-BOARDING ARRIVES IN HOUSTON
(source: MSNBC.com)
A controversial boarding process practiced outside the United States has arrived in Houston.
Continental Airlines is testing self-boarding at George Bush Intercontinental Airport in the first experiment within U.S. borders by any carrier, USA Today reported Tuesday.
The self-boarding process allows a passenger to swipe his or her boarding pass at a kiosk, which will open a turnstile or door, giving the traveler access to the jet bridge, according to the report.
A Transportation Security Administration spokesperson said the agency "determined it does not impact the security of the traveling public." All travelers will be screened at security checkpoints before arriving at boarding gates, he said.
Continental's self-boarding trial run follows recent technological developments aimed at making travelers' lives easier.
Passengers with smart phones, for example, can check in using mobile boarding passes. United, Continental, Delta, American and Alaska all use mobile boarding passes, where the carrier scans the confirmation link or message on a device capable of e-mail.
Additionally, the Clear program, which allowed members to breeze through security before it abruptly shut down last year, is expected to be up and running again by fall. The company was taken over by Alclear LLC, whose board includes Michael Chertoff, former secretary of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. Alclear bought Clear's former owner, Verified Identity Pass, which filed for bankruptcy.
Back To Top
IS THE ERA OF CHEAP AIRFARES COMING TO AN END?
(source: USA TODAY)
The days of fire-sale airfare pricing may be coming to an end. That's according to The Associated Press, which says airlines are pulling back on deeply discounted fares now that they're making money again.
That change could be tough for consumers who have become accustomed to cheap fares during the past few years.
"There were plenty of fare sales when the airlines were struggling to fill seats," AP writes. "Now those seats are in demand, so deals are less common."
Already, fares have jumped 18% this summer as compared to the same period a year ago, according to the International Air Transport Association. That trend may hold, some experts predict.
In normal years, fares typically fall as demand for air travel drops -- which history says happens as summer begins to bleed into autumn. But this may not be a normal year.
AP writes that when airlines have made money in past years, they've been "tempted to add new flights to snag returning travelers. [But] this time might be different. Sluggish [fall] bookings and concern about the weak economic recovery will put pressure on airlines not to add flights that might operate half-empty."
Back To Top
REPORT SHOWS ANCILLARY AIRLINE REVENUES SOAR
(source: Business Travel News)
Ancillary revenues earned by the world's airlines jumped from $10.25 billion in 2008 to $13.5 billion in 2009, according to preliminary results published Wednesday. The figure, based on the 2009 financial filings of 96 airlines worldwide, includes not only unbundled charges—such as for baggage or food—but also commissions from other travel suppliers and partner revenue generated by frequent flyer schemes.
The top earner of ancillary revenues worldwide in 2009 was United Airlines, up from $1.6 billion to $1.89 billion. It swapped rankings with American Airlines, which saw revenues fall from $2.19 billion to $1.85 billion. Delta was in third position, followed by Qantas, Ryanair and EasyJet. Other U.S. airlines in the top ten were US Airways, seventh, and Alaska Airlines, ninth.
When analyzed as a proportion of total revenues, the leisure-oriented low-cost domestic United States airline Allegiant was top for the second year running, with 29.2 percent of income from ancillary sources. Last year, the figure was 22.7 percent. In second place at 23.9 percent was Spirit, followed by Ryanair, at 22.2 percent. None of the airlines in the top ten ranked on percentage of total revenue is a network carrier with frequent flyer partner income, other than Alaska.
Based on ancillary revenue per passenger, Allegiant also emerged top at $30.61. United was fifth at $23.07.
Back To Top
AMTRAK MAKES IMPROVEMENTS
(source: Amtrak.com)
Amtrak is implementing the first step in a long-term, comprehensive fleet renewal plan with the purchase of 130 new single-level rail cars to support its long-distance train services. The five-year, $298.1 million contract is being awarded to CAF USA which is creating 575 jobs to perform manufacturing and final assembly work at its plant in Elmira, N.Y. The first car is scheduled to roll off the assembly line in October 2012.
The 130 single-level passenger rail cars are similar to the popular Viewliner model and includes 25 sleeping cars, 25 diners, 80 baggage cars for use primarily on long-distance trains. They will replace and supplement the existing fleet, improve financial and on-time performance, and foster a more modern, positive image of Amtrak. In addition, Amtrak can begin to retire some of its oldest cars still in service that date back to the 1940s and 1950s.
Passengers will experience many improvements with the new equipment including: modern interiors with better layouts; better lighting and more efficient air conditioning and heating systems; additional outlets to power personal electronic devices; bicycle racks in the baggage cars; as well as improved accessibility for passengers with disabilities.
Back To Top
SECURE FLIGHT PASSENGER DATA DEADLINE APPROACHING
The U.S. Transportation Security Administration (TSA) announced this month that after November 1, 2010, air passenger reservations without full Secure Flight Passenger Data (SFPD) will be rejected by Secure Flight and will not be processed. This policy will apply to all passenger records regardless of source, aircraft operator, or air carrier.
Effective September 15, 2010, select airlines will prohibit ticket issuance if the passenger's full name, date of birth and gender are not present in the reservation.
To facilitate the collection of the SFPD, The Lawyers' Travel Service has created a secure, encrypted web form which travelers can use to input this information. When the information is submitted, the traveler profile will be updated.
If you have not already done so, please click on the URL directly below to complete the collection process: https://secureflight.lawyerstravel.com
reservations.
Back To Top
THE LAWYERS' TRAVEL SERVICE PREFERRED HOTEL PARTNERS PROGRAM
AFFINIA CHICAGO
166 E. Superior
Chicago
The Affinia Chicago is located just steps from the Magnificent Mile. The hip, yet comfortable environment decked with eclectic décor and custom furnishings features unexpected colors and textures. Guests are treated to unique services and amenities such as the custom designed Affinia bed – complete with a 6-choice pillow menu, Affinia Fresh (100% Smoke-Free), spa services, jet set pets, experience kits and in-room dining from C-House Restaurant. C-House, created by Top Chef Master Marcus Samuelsson, delivers traditional seafood in a sleek, yet rustic setting. For pre or post dinner drinks head north to C-View, the hotel's rooftop lounge and outdoor terrace.
The Lawyers' Travel Service Preferred Hotel Partners Program rate at the Affinia Chicago is $179 (compared to a corporate rate of $190).*
Back To Top
THE LAWYERS' TRAVEL SERVICE PREFERRED HOTEL PARTNERS PROGRAM
INTERCONTINENTAL HOUSTON
2222 West Loop South
Houston
Standing at the gateway to one of the world's great urban centers, the Four-Diamond InterContinental Houston near The Galleria is regarded for its beautifully appointed guestrooms and top-of-the-line amenities. The superb location puts travelers just one block from world-class shopping and entertainment at The Galleria and minutes from the Museum District, the Theater District and the world-renowned Texas Medical Center. Take advantage of the full-service Business Center, Fitness Center and complimentary transportation to destinations within a three-mile radius of the hotel.
The Lawyers' Travel Service Preferred Hotel Partners Program rate at the InterContinental Houston is $169 (compared to a corporate rate of $189).*
Back To Top
THE LAWYERS' TRAVEL SERVICE PREFERRED HOTEL PARTNERS PROGRAM
THE LONDON NYC
151 W 54th Street
New York City
The London NYC offers an unparalleled luxury experience, surrounding guests with some of the largest accommodations in midtown Manhattan at a truly compelling value. Every aspect of the hotel seems effortless, from sleek, roomy accommodations to top notch amenities and service. The London offers the most consistent culinary experience in a NYC hotel as the culinary team of Gordon Ramsay oversees all cuisine, from restaurant to in-room dining. From its well appointed address, the multifaceted location offers easy access to all midtown businesses, major subway lines, Central Park and Fifth Avenue Shopping.
The London NYC's true highlight is the selection of stunningly spacious suites. Even entry level accommodations, London Suites, surround guests with a minimum of 500 square feet of living space featuring a separate parlor area and bedroom. Designed by innovator David Collins, the suite décor is the perfect blend of sophistication and comfort with oak parquet flooring, luxurious filli d'oro linens and sumptuous bathrooms complete with hand cut mosaic tiles and special details by Waterworks. The London experience provides complimentary internet access (both wired and wireless), gratis calls to London, a minimum of two LCD televisions and iHome docking stations.
Elevate the experience in The Luxury Suite Collection – from the stunning Sky Suites to the dramatic 2,500 square foot duplex Penthouse. The London NYC fitness Club is available on a complimentary basis, 24 hours daily. This state of the art facility offers two Kinesis Walls by Technogym, a variety of cardiovascular equipment from Lifefitness, an array of strength training equipment and free weights. Bottled water and ear phones are furnished on a complimentary basis.
The Lawyers' Travel Service Preferred Hotel Partners Program rate at The London NYC is $299 (compared to a corporate rate of $369) through September 6, 2010.*
Back To Top
THE LAWYERS' TRAVEL SERVICE PREFERRED HOTEL PARTNERS PROGRAM
MANDARIN ORIENTAL WASHINGTON
1330 Maryland Avenue, SW
Washington DC
Set at the heart of the US capital between the Potomac River and the White House, Mandarin Oriental, Washington DC has redefined service in the capital city with its award winning spa, restaurants and luxury accommodations. Mandarin Oriental is the only hotel with direct access to the National Mall and the nation's most revered monuments, and is just streets away from the museums of the Smithsonian Institution, Capitol Hill and the seat of power.
Enjoy the exclusive benefits of TAI PAN, the executive club level boasting countless amenities for the discerning business traveler. Offering complimentary breakfast, light lunch, evening canopies and snacks throughout the day, the TAI PAN Club lounge is the centerpiece of the experience, with outstanding views of the Washington Monument and Lincoln Memorial. Visit the Empress Lounge for unique cocktails and live entertainment or have dinner al fresco in the casual Sou'Wester restaurant and enjoy 20% off of the final bill. Indulge in The Spa at Mandarin Oriental, the only Four Star Spa in the region, and take advantage of a 20% discount on any 80 minute treatment, plus a 10% reduction on any airport transfer sedan reservation, and complimentary chauffeured house car within Washington DC city limits.
The Lawyers' Travel Service Preferred Hotel Partners Program rate at the Mandarin Oriental Washington is $295 (compared to a corporate rate of $415).*
Back To Top
THE LAWYERS' TRAVEL SERVICE PREFERRED HOTEL PARTNERS PROGRAM
OCEANA SANTA MONICA
849 Ocean Avenue
Los Angeles
Oceana Santa Monica offers an experience fit for creative, independent, successful business or leisure travelers who enjoy going to places of their own, and opt for discretion, intimacy and comfort in an unhurried and more upscale neighborhood of Santa Monica.
Known for its location and over-sized suites, the Oceana continues to add to its panache this summer through a team of high-tech poolside hosts. The new team of hosts plan to enhance the poolside experience this summer by offering high-tech entertainment in the form of Apple's iPads and iPods to enjoy in the sun. Liz Carrol and the rest of the poolside hosts will also have the most up to date magazines to enjoy from design and fashion to gossip magazines with tales of guest's favorite celebrities. Liz will also help every guest achieve that sun-kissed glow-offering a selection of during and after-sun care products. On Saturday afternoons, Liz and the rest of the Oceana team will open up an ice cream shop on deck, offering favorite childhood ice cream bars, including Drumsticks, Eskimo Pies, and Creamsicles-guests can enjoy their favorite movie on iPad, while eating their favorite childhood ice cream.
If looking for a break from the pool, the hotel can also set up a beach bag filled with lunch, towels, and games to enjoy at the beach, just steps away from the Oceana. The beach and the rest of the surrounding area is accessible via beach cruisers, parked in front of the hotel exclusively for Oceana's guests to use.
The team at the Oceana looks forward to welcoming guests this summer.
The Lawyers' Travel Service Preferred Hotel Partners Program rate at the Oceana Santa Monica is $279 (compared to a corporate rate of $339).*
Back To Top
THE LAWYERS' TRAVEL SERVICE PREFERRED HOTEL PARTNERS PROGRAM
OMNI AUSTIN DOWNTOWN
700 San Jacinto
Austin
The Omni Austin Hotel in downtown Austin, Texas is a magnificently appointed, luxury hotel that surrounds guests with comfort and style. Inside, they'll find thoughtfully appointed accommodations with spectacular views. Outside is Texas at its best. With the heart of the thriving downtown business center at travelers' doorstep, they'll be just steps away from the Austin Convention Center and the Texas State Capitol. The hotel features 292 spacious guest rooms, 46 club rooms, 18 one-bedroom suites and 19 two-bedroom suites. Guest room décor is thoughtfully designed to ensure guests' business trips go smoothly. Guest rooms feature dazzling views of the city or hotel atrium, and are appointed with first-class amenities for the modern traveler. Quite simply, the Omni Austin Downtown provides the ultimate in luxury, comfort and convenience.
The Lawyers' Travel Service Preferred Hotel Partners Program rate at the Omni Austin Downtown is $179 (compared to a corporate rate of $189).*
Back To Top
THE LAWYERS' TRAVEL SERVICE PREFERRED HOTEL PARTNERS PROGRAM
OMNI PARKER HOUSE
60 School Street
Boston
Experience one of the Top Ten Historic Hotels in America, as designated by the AAA inspectors. Located in the heart of downtown Boston along the renowned Freedom Trail, this hotel is only 10 minutes from Logan International Airport, 5 minutes from the BCEC and within walking distance of the Boston Common, Public Gardens and Theater District. The Omni Parker House continues its tradition of timeless charm, modern amenities and green initiatives, recently receiving a Green Eco-Leaf rating. Join the Select Guest program for the ultimate personalized service experience which includes complimentary high speed internet access, choice of morning beverages and newspaper. Beautifully appointed guestrooms feature desks, in-room laptop size safes and plush bathrobes, perfect for the everyday business traveler. While guests are at the hotel, visit any of their 3 restaurants, including the famous pub, The Last Hurrah, and take advantage of the 24-hour room service, 24-hour gym access, business center and knowledgeable concierge services. Become a part of the history and discover why the Omni Parker House has been an institution of hospitality excellence since 1855.
The Lawyers' Travel Service Preferred Hotel Partners Program rate at the Omni Parker House is $219 (compared to a corporate rate of $239) through September 12, 2010.*
Back To Top
* All rates are subject to availability.
______________________________________________________________
The Lawyers' Travel Service
www.lawyerstravel.com
info@lawyerstravel.com
800.431.1112 |
|
