Jetsettersblog

Sixt rent a car, one of Europe’s largest independently owned car hire companies, are pleased to announce their arrival in all Heathrow Airport terminals.

CHESTERFIELD, ENGLAND,- Sixt rent a car, one of Europe’s largest independently owned car hire companies, are pleased to announce their arrival in all Heathrow Airport terminals.

New desks will be available from 16 March within terminals 1, 3 and 4 in addition to customers having access to a free phone telephone in terminal 5, with a direct link to the Sixt Heathrow car hire centre or UK Reservations Team.

Car hire facilities at terminal 5 will be developed in coming months to offer customers a fully interactive touch screen booking system, which links directly into www.sixt.co.uk.

Sixt, like all other car hire companies at Heathrow Airport, runs a regular courtesy coach service to transfer customers swiftly from all terminals to their car hire centre.

Customers of Sixt arriving at Heathrow Airport will have three options to collect their car.

They can choose to complete all rental paperwork at one of the new desks in terminal before taking the courtesy coach to the car hire centre.

Having already completed the necessary paperwork, they simply proceed to the rapid pick up point to collect their car keys.

Alternatively customers can head straight from ‘arrivals’ to the car hire centre, using the courtesy coach, to complete the required paperwork before collecting their car. The third and quickest option is for customers to use the Sixt online check-in and go straight to the car hire centre.

The new service highlights Sixt’s commitment to both existing and new customers. Bob Baillie, operations director at Sixt, said:

“We’ve been servicing customers at Heathrow Airport for many years and our investment in new desks within all terminals demonstrates our commitment to both Heathrow Airport Limited and Sixt customers. We are pleased to support Heathrow Airport Limited by offering more choice for car hire customers arriving into Heathrow Airport.”

Sixt’s highly trained staff will be on hand to help with any queries that customers may have. Marie Roberts, branch manager, at Sixt Heathrow said:

“This is an exciting time for Sixt with expansion into Heathrow Airport and plans to develop the UK network further throughout the year. Not many people realise that Sixt was founded in 1912 and we are fast approaching our 100th birthday.

The developments that we have made over this time have been outstanding with Sixt leading the way in car rental technology. Online check in, mobile applications and rapid check in machines are now standard across the Sixt worldwide network.”

Sixt Heathrow will be open 7 days a week throughout the year from 6:00 – 23:00. Customers have access to a free phone telephone at each desk which immediately connects them to the Heathrow car hire centre. Outside of the normal operating hours customers can still speak to a member of the Sixt team in the UK reservations centre using the free phone service.

Sixt rent a car offers a first class service with over 26,000 vehicles from more than 150 rental locations in the UK.

Sixt rent a car offers car and van hire in London and across the UK through a network of over 150 locations.

Fjord Tours’ Geiranger & Norway in a Nutshell tour explores two of the world’s most beautiful fjords, the Geirangerfjord and the Nærøyfjord, both of which are on UNESCO’s World Heritage List.

This roundtrip is available from Oslo, Ålesund and Bergen from April 15 to Sept. 14.

The tour uses the Raumabanen Railway from Oslo to the Dovrebanen Railway to Dombås and then the Raumabanen Railway to Åndalsnes.

The Raumabanen Railway is one of Norway’s most beautiful and wild stretches of railway.

Along the route, it passes the sheer Trollveggen cliff and the Kyllingbru Bridge, the most photographed bridge in Norway.

The trip continues by bus from Åndalsnes to Ålesund. Ålesund is known for its Art Nouveau architecture with towers, spires and imaginative ornamentation of house facades.

Ålesund is also known for its boating trips, hiking, cycling on idyllic small islands on the ocean’s edge or diving.

The Hurtigruten coastal express goes to the Geirangerfjord.

On the way it passes the waterfalls known as The Seven Sisters, The Suitor and The Bridal Veil. Back in Ålesund, the trip continues south on the Hurtigruten to Bergen.

In Bergen, clients experience the World Heritage Site of Bryggen. At Bryggen, they can wander through history all the way back to the Middle Ages and up to the present.

The tour continues with the Norway in a Nutshell trip from Bergen to Oslo, including a fjord cruise on the Nærøyfjord, a ride on the Flåm Railway and the Bergen Railway.

Visit www.fjordtours.com

The Guoman Urban Retreat package features two night’s accommodation at one of Guoman’s four deluxe hotels in London with breakfast both mornings, a chauffeur to an appointment and an indulgent treatment package for two at the Urban Retreat in Harrods. Prices start from £555 ($853) per package for two people.

For more information, visit www.guoman.com

Whitbread PLC will be opening three new Premier Inn sites in London with a combined investment figure of £26 million ($40 million). The sites opening are London Sunbury (April 26), London Ealing (May 21) and London Greenwich (June 18). For more information, visit www.premierinn.com

Innsbruck’s “Kaufhaus Tyrol,” an inner-city shopping space steeped in tradition, reopened its doors in March.

After investor René Benko purchased the premises, it took several years to tear down the old structure and rebuild the mall to its new splendor.

The successful completion of the new Kaufhaus Tyrol marks the beginning of another era in the history of the building. Originally founded in 1908 by Bauer & Schwarz, and considered at that time as the latest trend in department stores, the area was heavily damaged during the bomb attacks of World War II and reconstructed during the 1950s.

The premises have seen a succession of owners in the second half of the 20th century.

The most striking feature of the Kaufhaus Tyrol’s new appearance is its architecture. Designed by British architect David Chipperfield, the building’s clearly structured façade is glass and re-enforced concrete.

As you enter the mall through its main entrance in Maria-Theresien-Strasse, you cross at first a forecourt-like space before reaching a central area flooded with natural daylight where escalators move across the six levels of the building’s interior.

The predominant color is white, the materials used are mainly glass and matt metal surfaces, with the grid pattern design of the exterior walls being duplicated on the shop fronts inside the building.

The Kaufhaus Tyrol features clothes and shoes, accessories and beauty products, and sports gear as well as decorative items for the home and more. Inspired by Austrian coffee house culture, the Café Schindler serves typical Austrian treats as well as coffee specialties, and a selection of homemade cakes and gateauxs. Italian café-bars Centrale and Segafredo as well as the Coffeeshop Company also serve special coffee.

For more information, visit kaufhaus-tyrol.at or www.innsbruck.info

Le Boat, part of TUI Marine, the marine division of TUI Travel plc, has signed an agreement that will expand the self-drive boating operation.

Le Boat’s agreement is with the Beneteau Group, a major sailboat builder, and Seaway, a boat design and development company based in Slovenia.

The three companies will design, develop and build a new-style leisure motor boat, which will be exclusive to Le Boat, the world’s largest operator of self-drive boating vacations.

Le Boat, formerly Crown Blue Line and Connoisseur in Europe, says demand for inland waterway boating vacations is at an all-time high.

The company plans to introduce the new-style boat in all its key cruising areas. For 2010, Le Boat customers have the choice of over 200 self-drive cruising routes departing from 42 bases in eight European countries.

For more information, visit www.leboat.com

State law requires youngsters 13 and 14 years old to have a motorboat operator’s certificate while piloting a motorboat without an adult on board.

This includes operation of all motorboats, as well as personal watercraft, like a jet ski, with a motor greater than 10 horsepower.

The certificate can be obtained through a course, available free at all FWP offices, that consists of a 71-page safe-boating manual, a handbook, test, and a registration card. Boaters of all ages will find the course valuable.

Family members who take the course now can be sure they comply with state and other laws when boating season is in full swing. Those 13 years of age and older who pass the exam will receive a certificate.

Adults may find the Montana boating-course certificate useful when boating for extended periods in other states where adults are required to take a boating course.

No one 12 or younger can operate a motorboat alone rated at more than 10 horsepower. An adult, 18 years or older, must be on board. There are no certification requirements for youth age 15 or older.

After completing the home study course, students return the test, workbook and registration card to the FWP Helena headquarters office.

A motorboat operator’s certificate will be sent back to students with a passing score.

The boat operator must carry the certificate whenever driving a motorboat or jet ski.

Alternative training opportunities include taking an online course from one of the four Montana approved boat education vendors.

To check out the online courses go to the FWP Web site at www.fwp.mt.gov on the Education page and choose Outdoor Education. The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary in several Montana communities offers classroom courses listed at www.mtcgaux.com

For more information, contact Liz Lodman at 406-444-2615.

READY FOR FIRST CAST OF 2010 WITH APRIL OPENING OF ITS FLY FISHING SCHOOL

California Fly Fishing Lodge Offers Most Extensive School in the West

FALL RIVER MILLS, Calif. – Clearwater Lodge at the Pit River, a historic, full-service fly fishing destination in northeastern California and an Orvis Endorsed Fly Fishing Lodge, announces its 2010 fly fishing school schedule.

From introductory lessons in fly fishing to more advanced topics in nymphing, dry fly fishing, and guiding to programs just for women taught by women, the lodge’s multi-day fly fishing schools offer something for everyone.

Clearwater Lodge is known as a top fly fishing destination whose home waters include five of California’s great protected trout rivers and spring-fed stillwaters, providing a variety of angling experiences.

The Mastering the Art of Fly Fishing program is an in-depth, five-day introduction to the sport.

Classes start on Wednesday, and by Sunday participants, versed in several fishing techniques, leave with the skills to cast on their own and fish just about any trout stream in the U.S.

In addition to teaching the basics in dry fly, nymphing, casting, rigging, wading and entomology, the school’s schedule includes time to relax and share stories with other guests about catching (then releasing) the ‘big one’.

The Mastering Schools are $1,395 per person and include all meals, accommodations, instruction and use of key tackle.

The lodge also offers Mastering the Art of Fly Fishing for Women, which teaches the same skills as the Mastering School, but is tailored for and taught by women.

These schools are also Wednesday through Sunday and teach the fly fishing basics in a fun, comfortable setting.

New this season, Clearwater Lodge offers an Intermediate Fly Fishing school for anglers who have completed the Mastering course and want to further build their skills.

The Intermediate school includes review of the basics and adds new techniques to the angler’s skill set in a five-day program for $1,395 per person.

For the more experienced anglers, the lodge offers three schools that focus on more in-depth trout techniques and tactics.

The Advanced Nymphing and Advanced Dry Fly schools run Sunday through Wednesday and each cost $995 per person for two or more anglers. The expert-level school, Master Angler, hones casting and presentation skills under a variety of conditions. The five-day class starts on Wednesdays and costs $1,495 per person.

The full schedule of beginner and expert fly fishing schools offered throughout the fishing season, from April through October, is available at http://clearwaterlodge.com/schedule.aspx

Groups may arrange private programs as well. Each school includes meals, accommodations, instruction and the use of large tackle items: premium rods, reels, waders and boots.

In the lodge’s Fly Shop, guests will find a wide selection of the season’s best flies and other tackle, plus clothing and gift items.

Clearwater Lodge also offers guided fly fishing trips for anglers wanting to master their techniques, try their luck at a specific river or just enjoy a day out.

Full days and half days are available. The lodge’s guides are a group of highly experienced men and women anglers as well as excellent teachers.

They share their love of fishing, respect for California’s rivers and passion for the outdoors with each guest. Many of the guides are graduates of the lodge’s own Guide School.

The 100 miles of forested mountain country between the volcanic peaks of Mount Shasta to the north and Mount Lassen to the south hold the finest concentration of wild trout waters in California. Guests of Clearwater Lodge have the opportunity to fish in this rich, unspoiled region and enjoy two spring creeks, Fall River and Hat Creek, as well as famed tailwaters on the Pit, McCloud and Upper Sacramento rivers.

When not fishing, lodge guests often take time to enjoy the rich scenery and recreational opportunities near the lodge, such as golf, hiking, biking and bird watching.

Lava springs, historical Native American sites, the Pacific Crest Trail and waterfalls are among the nearby attractions.
Clearwater Lodge at the Pit River was built in 1921 and now comprises a main building, annex and individual cottages.

The main building contains a Great Room along with seven bedrooms, each with a queen bed and private bath.

The Annex houses six single bedrooms, two large shared baths and a spacious sitting room featuring a natural rock fireplace. Three individual cottages, set away from the lodge among the trees, provide one- and two-bedroom accommodations. Amenities include wireless Internet access and air conditioning. Gourmet meals tempt appetites after a day on the river and are served family-style.

For more information and reservations, visit www.clearwaterlodge.com  or call (888) 600-5451.

T his year everyone wants to get back to nature and explore America’s national parks. Just outside of the parks, adventures await in nearby gateway cities. You can wash the dirt from camping off in clear waterfalls on the Olympic Peninsula, sample succulent Maine lobster in Bar Harbor, catch up on your history in America’s greatest western town and tons more.

Bar Harbor, Maine (Acadia National Park)

On lovely Mount Desert Island there are a plethora of experiences awaiting your arrival. Bring your binoculars on fascinating bird watches, feel the salty spray from aboard a catamaran, learn about marine life at Maineis lobster fishery or aboard a nature cruise, or hop on a scooter and explore the galleries and shops of Bar Harbor.

Don’t miss: Abbe Museum to learn about the Wabanaki, Maine’s Native people.

Where to stay: Acadia Inn in addition to its comfortable classic accommodations the Inn offers a couple of Acadia package deals.

Bar Harbor Vacation Homes (Rentals) has a wide variety of cottages and cabins in and around Bar Harbor. Prices start at $750 weekly.

Olympic Peninsula, Washington (Olympic National Park)
After taking in the Hoh rainforests of Olympic National Park catch a ferry to Victoria, BC, wander the exquisite lavender fields and farms of Sequim, scuba Salt Creek or Pulali Point or pretend you’re a character in the Twilight series!

Don’t miss: Lake Crescent and its surrounding areas display majestic waterfalls and hot springs born of dragon tears.

Where to stay: Northwest Manor (B&B) filled with Native American art and culture. Suites are $130-$145. Bonita and Rich are happy to help you discover the mysteries of the Olympic Peninsula.

Sol Duc Cabin Fever (Rental) located near Forks this rustic private cabin is peaceful and fully furnished. Rates range from $89-$119 with an additional deposit for pets.

Sheridan, Wyoming (Yellowstone National Park/Devils Tower)
Sheridan is the top western town in the nation; come by and soak up some of its history between excursions in Yellowstone and Devils Tower! See baby buffalo and elk at Kendrick Park, snowmobile Big Horn Mountain trails, fish in Lake DeSmet or take a trolley tour, only $1, through the historic Main Street District of town.

Don’t miss: At Bradford Brinton Memorial and Museum experience an early twentieth century gentleman’s ranch and its extensive western and Native American art collections.

Where to stay: Sheridan Cottages(Rental) has five beautifully decorated cottages with nearby bike trail access. Weekly and nightly rates available.

Mill Inn originally built as a mill in the early 1890s this historic hotel has since been renovated and offers a taste of rustic western charm. Single rates start at $89.

Cedar City, Utah (Zion National Park/Grand Canyon National Park)

In this adrenaline packed area you can mountain bike Brian Head Resorts Mountain Bike Park’s 200 miles of trails, learn to rappel waterfalls on a guided canyoneering excursion, roam local trails on horseback or take advantage of some of the country’s top rock climbing spots.

Don’t miss: Navajo Lake is where pristine waters are surrounded by 2000 year old lava beds and the lava tunnel better known as Mammoth Cave.

Where to stay: Amid Summer Inn (B&B) is a multi award-winning B&B with ten themed rooms located near many area attractions.

At Summit Chateau Lodge choose between a private cabin or modern yurt.

Juneau, Alaska (Glacier Bay National Park)

Canopy zip lining tours, kayaking with humpback whales, dog sledding, glacier hiking on the 1500 sq-mi Juneau Icefield, this is a taste of the opportunities available here. Just fly into Seattle and it’s a quick hop over to Juneau on Alaska Airlines.

Don’t miss: Mt Roberts Tramway allows you to rise over 1700 feet and see a breath-taking panoramic view of Juneau’s waterfront.

Where to stay: Pearson’s Pond Luxury Inn in addition to being situated in absolutely breathtaking scenery, this hotel offers an adventure spa!

Homestead (B&B) is walking distance from shops and the Salmon River. Features of this B&B include a sizeable backyard organic garden and the possibility of seeing moose roaming the property.

Rates start at $115 per night for a single.

CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va. — A group of top resort golf courses in Central Virginia are committed to becoming friends of the environment.

The Monticello Golf Trail, located in the heart of the Blue Ridge, features five golf courses conveniently located within a forty-five minute radius.

According to Trail founder Mark Glickman, “these courses are taking some key steps and are committed to becoming more sustainable.

By working together and inspiring one another, the golf industry can do more to help green the planet. Charlottesville is a world-class tourism destination and is on the leading edge of green living initiatives.

The Trail combines those elements for area golf courses.”

The Monticello Golf Trail is comprised of the following courses: Stoney Creek and Devils Knob at Wintergreen Resort in Nelson County, Birdwood Golf Course at The Boar’s Head in Charlottesville, Poplar Grove Golf Club in Amherst and The Rivanna in Fluvanna County.

Golfers with a Trail card receive exclusive special offers on golf rounds, accommodations, merchandise and more while helping to support businesses that are committed to sustainability.

“This is not another discount program,” comments Trail partner Damon DeVito.

“As a course operator it is important to me to help these resorts attract new tourism customers to the Charlottesville area.

“The customers get good prices and special opportunities without hassle. The partners get the benefits from pooling our dollars to broaden our outreach.”

For golfers who purchase the card on www.monticellogolftrail.com before May 31, 2010, Trail organizers will plant a tree in their family name to help offset their trip to Virginia through a partnership with True Offsets, a company that is setting the world standard for carbon offsets through transparent investment.
In addition, golfers can submit their ideas for greening a golf course as part of the “Greenest Golfer Contest” between now and May 31, 2010 and win a 3 day/2 night Monticello Golf Trail Getaway at their choice of The Boar’s Head or Wintergreen Resort including championship golf at each of the participating Monticello Golf Trail courses.

Golfers who live outside Central Virginia and want to experience a memorable vacation and special benefits while supporting earth-conscious businesses, can purchase the Monticello Golf Trail Card for a special introductory offer of $25 (regular cost $50), if purchased before May 31, 2010 at www.monticellogolftrail.com

Cards purchased before June 1, 2010 can be used for travel through May 1, 2011.

The Monticello Golf Trail is a proud recipient of a matching grant from Virginia Tourism Corporation.