Jetsettersblog

Visa Signature and Visa Infinite cardholders can now enjoy exclusive access to perks at a selection of the world’s most prestigious properties

Thailand, 13 September 2010 – Visa has announced the launch of the Visa Luxury Hotel Collection, giving Visa Signature and Visa Infinite cardholders in Thailand a way to now find, book and enjoy unique benefits at a hand-selected group of prestigious hotel properties throughout Southeast Asia and the world.

Visa Signature and Visa Infinite cardholders now have around-the-clock access to research and book accommodations at luxury properties around the world – from celebrated hotels and resorts to new boutique gems – gathered together by invitation and appraised annually to ensure consistency with Visa Luxury Hotel Collection standards.

Benefits can be accessed through either

www.visasignaturehotels.com  or www.visainfinitehotels.com.

The Visa Luxury Hotel Collection offers cardholders access to a host of perks, which may include the best available rate, a room upgrade, VIP guest status, complimentary valet parking or internet access, a food and beverage voucher, complimentary continental breakfast, and late checkout privileges.1

Somboon Krobteeranon, Visa’s Country Manager for Thailand, said: “Travel benefits consistently rank at the top of our Visa premium cardholders’ lists of preferred perks.

The Visa Luxury Hotel Collection enhances Visa’s ability to meet the lifestyles of today’s affluent cardholder with access to the travel perks they value most.

Whether planning a weekend getaway or a family vacation, Visa Signature and Visa Infinite cardholders can have confidence their accommodations will meet their expectations.”

The Visa Luxury Hotel Collection is available to Thai-issued Visa Signature or Visa Infinite cardholders.

It is Visa’s first global premium travel benefit and is powered by Kiwi Collection, one of the most-selective collections of luxury properties.

The Visa Luxury Hotel Collection includes prestigious properties around the world such as Amanpuri in Thailand, the Burj al Arab in Dubai and The Pierre in New York.

For more information on the Visa Luxury Hotel Collection and specific benefits for Visa Premium cardholders, please visit:

* For Visa Signature cardholders in Asia Pacific: www.visasignaturehotels.com

* For Visa Infinite cardholders in Asia Pacific: www.visainfinitehotels.com

Benefits may vary by property and are subject to availability and restrictions. For complete terms and conditions, visit http://www.visasignaturehotels.com/about/benefits

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Daytona 500! Dreams Do Come True!

Don’t Just Dream It! Do It At The Daytona 500!

Drive with like minded enthusiasts from New Orleans to the Gulf Coast of Florida.

Circle the convertibles, put the keys in the ignition and fire up your engines, you’re headed to the world-famous Daytona 500.

America boasts 4.2 million miles of paved roads, and petrol at half the price it is at any pump in Australia, and for any Daytona Dreamer, the choice is simple.

Merge into the fast lane on a road trip to New Orleans, the home of Jazz, Bourbon Street and the French Quarter and on to The Gulf Coast of Florida and the Great Atlantic Ocean.

This remarkable road trip enjoys the best of the USA by convoy, in the company of other like-minded adventurers who share one common passion.

Elite Special Event Tours have made it as easy as changing lanes with an experienced lead driver up front.

He’s the expert who leads the course and shows you all the places you might have blown past. You and your ‘road crew’ enjoy some of the very best the USA has on offer.

Elite Special Event Tours is the brain-child of John Cruwys, an Australian with a passion about most things American.

John has been over the road many times, making him what the Americans’ themselves refer to as a ‘specialist’ in special interest touring.

The diamond in the headdress of this 10 day, you-drive-it road trip from New Orleans to Daytona Beach is entry to the adrenalin rush venue of the Daytona 500 International Speedway for the big EVENT: The NASCAR Daytona 500.

You’ll also enjoy the VIP treatment awarded to overseas drivers in the famous ’5th Turn Club’, reserved seating in the “Sprint Tower’ and a FANZONE Pass that gives access to the pits and places where others are not permitted.

Start packing!

This 12 day tour includes 10 nights accommodation, 8 days of car hire inclusive of Collision Damage Waiver, unlimited mileage, a support vehicle and an Australian tour manager and entry to the Daytona 500.

Southwest Airlines will begin service to/from Charleston International Airport (CHS) and Greenville-Spartanburg Airport (GSP) on March 13.

In Charleston, the carrier will operate seven daily nonstop flights to four destinations — three to Baltimore/Washington, two to Chicago Midway, one to Nashville, and one to Houston Hobby.

Southwest Airlines will operate from gate B5 in Charleston’s main terminal.

In Greenville-Spartanburg, the airline will begin service with seven daily nonstop flights to five destinations — two to Baltimore/Washington, two to Chicago Midway, one to Nashville, one to Houston Hobby, and one to Orlando.

Southwest Airlines will operate from gates A3 and A4 in Greenville-Spartanburg’s main terminal.

For more information, visit the Southwest Airline Vacations free nights ad below.

Six Flags Magic Mountain in Valencia, Calif., has announced a year of capital expansions with three new roller coasters slated for completion in 2011.

With these additions, Six Flags Magic Mountain will offer a total of 18 roller coasters, more than any other theme park in the world.

The new coasters will be the Green Lantern, which consists of a vertical track and a spinning coaster;

the reopening of Superman The Escape, which will takes riders to speeds of up to 100 mph in seven seconds and reverse the direction of the vehicles;

and a thrill-seeker-in-training coaster designed for families.

For more information, call 661-255-4100

or visit

www.sixflags.com/magicmountain/index.aspx

Accelerating growth in Latin America, Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. announced its return to Costa Rica with the opening of The Westin Playa Conchal Resort & Spa in May 2011.

Marking a milestone in Starwood’s history, The Westin Playa Conchal Resort & Spa will also be the first all-inclusive resort in Starwood’s global portfolio.

Starwood and Desarrollos Hoteleros Guanagaste, a fully owned subsidiary of Reserva Conchal, signed a management agreement to re-flag the Paradisus Playa Conchal Resort in Guanacaste as a Westin.

The property will undergo extensive renovations to its 406 suites and all public areas.

The Westin Playa Conchal Resort & Spa is 45 minutes from Guanacaste International Airport.

Centered around a lagoon-style pool, the resort features gardens, suites, thatch-roofed bungalows and ocean and forest views in addition to a signature Westin Spa.

The resort will also offer a variety of outdoor recreation and nightly entertainment.

The resort is located adjacent to the championship Robert Trent Jones II golf facility, and features several restaurants serving both local and international cuisine.

The Westin Playa Conchal Resort & Spa will be the first Starwood property in Costa Rica in 20 years and the newest member of the Westin brand’s resorts portfolio.

The Westin Sensory Welcome will welcome guests as they enter the resort with its White Tea by Westin fragrance, gentle music, botanicals and mood lighting.

Other signature Westin features of the resort will include the Heavenly Bed, the Westin Heavenly Bath experience and in-room, high-speed Internet access and an ergonomic work space.

The Westin Playa Conchal Resort & Spa will feature 6,500 square feet of meeting and banquet facilities, as well as a WestinWorkOut gym.

Known for its tranquil environment and relaxing setting One&Only Palmilla has introduced a “Wellness Sleep Therapy Programme,” a series of spa services and wellness sessions aimed at helping guests achieve the perfect night’s sleep through a series of holistic approaches and lifestyle changes.

“With today’s fast-paced lifestyle, our guests are searching for techniques to reach a state of complete relaxation during their stay at One&Only Palmilla,” says Edward Steiner, Managing Director of One&Only Palmilla.

“This series of wellness sessions and spa experiences will help guests improve their sleep patterns and teach them skills that can be incorporated into their everyday lives.”

“Sleep Wellness Sessions,” designed to help guests reshape their lifestyle and attain better night’s rest include:

Transformation Breath Work – A form of breath work that aids in falling asleep and helps improve day time fatigue often associated with lack of sleep.

This form of breath work not only has a positive effect on the body, but also a number of benefits on the mental-emotional well-being.

Sleep Deeper Nutrition – Learn how food choices affect sleep and nutritional tips on how to select foods that aid in sleep.

Guided Visualisation – A private session offering guests guided imagery to help with difficulty sleeping.

Additionally, ESPA has designed a series of spa treatments that also aim to send guests off into the perfect sleep. The signature “Sleep Spa Experiences” menu comprises of:

Deep Sleep Watsu Massage (90 minutes) – Improves sleep patterns by inducing a deep state of relaxation, decreases muscle tension and makes dramatic changes to the autonomic nervous system.

An underwater massage is followed by a deeply relaxing back, neck and head massage using aromatherapy oils clinically blended to aid sleep.

Brain Synch Massage (90 minutes) – a synchronised massage performed by two therapists at the same time in perfect unison.

A deeply therapeutic massage that allows the mind to disconnect as it cannot focus and analyse the movements performed by two therapists.

Mexican Obsidian Deep Sleep Treatment (90 minutes) -

A deeply relaxing head, neck and shoulder massage using warmed aromatherapy oils to the sounds of prescriptive spa music designed for deep relaxation.

A full body salt and oil scrub cleanses the skin and prepares the body for optimal absorption of the aromatherapy oils clinically blended to enhance sleep.

A deeply relaxing full body massage combined with Mexican Obsidian helps sleep come easier and deeper.

A local herbal compress placed on tense lower back muscles and a relaxing herbal tea all help induce slumber.

In Room Sleep Retreat (90 minutes) -

For those who dream of falling into bed after a blissful massage experience, guest rooms are prepared with One&Only Palmilla Sleep music with the scent of sleep inducing essential oils diffused into the air and a cup of sleep herbal tea provided to be enjoyed while a private butler prepares a bath filled with relaxing oil.

The treatment is finished with a deeply relaxing massage that lulls the muscles and mind into a deeper level of relaxation.

About One&Only Palmilla

The renewed One&Only Palmilla resort maintains the classic Mexican ambiance which has made it a favorite among an international ‘who’s who’ since its original opening in 1956, while expanding and recreating the legendary property for a new generation of travellers.

The resort features 173 spacious rooms and suites, each luxuriously appointed and offering magnificent views of the Sea of Cortez, along with three restaurants, the indoor/outdoor One&Only Spa, two pools including a children’s swimming and activity area, a new Executive Conference Center, and the property’s renowned Chapel, which makes One&Only Palmilla a favorite for weddings. The resort also boasts the 27-hole Palmilla Golf Club, designed by Jack Nicklaus.

The James, synonymous with the seamless blend of modern, residentially styled, state-of-the-art technology and guest-centric service found at its Chicago location, will bring those same attributes to its new property in New York City.

The James New York, a newly built hotel anchoring the southwest corner of Soho at Grand and Thompson Streets, with 114 guestrooms and suites bathed in natural light and unobstructed views of Manhattan.

The property acts as a beacon, illustrating the juncture between the artistry of Soho and the industrial qualities of Tribeca.

The James New York, designed by the Office for Design and Architecture (ODA) in collaboration with Perkins Eastman and custom interiors by Amanda Sullivan with The James Design team, blends elements of artistry and community throughout. Stepped platforms reveal distinctive features including an urban garden, and a stunning rooftop pool deck and bar, complete with 360-degree views of the Manhattan skyline.

In homage to the creative neighborhood it calls home, The James New York will feature a mix of local artists, both prominent and up-and-coming.

This program is reflective of the brand’s commitment to the arts and is an extension of its sister property’s extensive cultural partnerships in Chicago.

“The stylish and culturally rich neighborhood of Soho is the ideal home for The James New York, providing a perfect backdrop for the brand’s artful blend of exquisite hand-crafted design, seamlessly intuitive service and personalized comfort,” said Brooke Barrett, Co-CEO of Denihan Hospitality Group, owners and operators of The James brand.

“Our strategy was to identify a hospitality group with new ideas and fresh thinking” said Shai Shamir, Managing Director of Brack Capital Real Estate, (BCRE) owner and developer of The James New York.

“The James brand embodies the modern version of a luxury hotel with a strong focus on design and service, making it the perfect addition to the Soho hotel landscape.”

Living Spaces

The James New York will offer personalized comfort; generous complimentary amenities; custom-designed, modern furniture; and impeccable service to create an environment that is ideal for both business and leisure travelers in each of the 114 guestrooms, which include spacious corner rooms with wrap-around views, four one-bedroom suites and one 1300 sq.-ft. Penthouse Loft, located on the 16th floor.

Environmentally thoughtful details can be found throughout the property, including reclaimed wood and rugs made from all-natural fibers, all of which are complemented by an overall color scheme inspired by nature, in a palette of warm tones.

No detail has been overlooked, with mindfully planned features, such as easily accessible electrical outlets, high ceilings, windows that open outward (a rarity among New York City hotels), reading lights embedding in the bed headboards, and spacious guest bathrooms, complete with huge standing showers, separated from the living area by a floor-to-ceiling glass wall and a remote-controlled screen for extra privacy.

The screens, commissioned by a local award-winning artist, blend form and function within the guestroom by allowing for gorgeous views of the Manhattan skyline and providing an additional piece of moveable, nature-inspired artwork to the décor.

In keeping with the hotel’s interest in environmental sustainability and responsibility, Harmonic by Intelligent Nutrients, a certified organic, food-based, natural beauty line, will provide all in-room amenities.

The Penthouse Loft, designed by renowned Dutch architect and interior designer, Piet Boon, is the epitome of luxurious living, including one full bathroom with a free-standing tub and a double shower, an additional half-bath for guests, a dining room, a wet bar, a master bedroom, and a grand living room showcasing expansive river views, including both the Brooklyn and Manhattan Bridges.

In keeping with the hotel’s interest in environmental sustainability and responsibility,

The James New York has partnered with Harmonic by Intelligent Nutrients, a certified organic, food-based, natural beauty line to provide all in-room amenities. Guests can enjoy a selection of Intelligent Nutrients’ innovative full-sized products during their stay at The James or request the smaller take home travel-sized version of the brand’s all-natural shampoo, conditioner and body wash.

Each guest room mini-bar will also feature a Harmonic Travel Kit ($US25) and Harmonic Lip Balm ($US12) for sale.

For guests looking to stay fit on the road, The James New York will feature a state-of-the-art fitness center.

Social Spaces

Inspired by its picturesque location at the crossroads of New York’s famed Soho and Tribeca neighborhoods, the design of The James New York is dedicated to natural light and open space, two elements which are traditionally difficult to find in New York hotels.

The Sky Lobby, a third-floor glass-walled welcome and reception area, is accessible by a glass elevator that transports guests from the ground floor entry to a private living room and business networking lounge. Glass walls provide views of the neighboring sculpture garden, Lent Space, an exhibition area and tree nursery managed by the Lower Manhattan Cultural Council.

The exterior of the second floor features a lush
Urban Garden, designed by the hotel’s Horticulturist, award winning landscape designer Rebecca Cole, a welcome respite for guests above the city’s hustle and bustle. Replete with grass and botanicals, the Urban Garden is enclosed by industrial, concrete walls – a protective shell for the hidden greenery within.

The connected Garden Bar & Restaurant, designed by Thomas Schlesser of Design Bureaux, takes its visual cues from the outdoor space which in turn has a variety of comfortable seating arrangements amid park-like landscaping.

The Urban Garden will also feature a working Herb Garden to be utilized in The James New York’s food and beverage offerings.

Outdoor space is further maximized through a modern indoor/outdoor special events and meeting room featuring state-of-the-art video conferencing and in-room private dining capabilities.

The hotel’s sexiest and most covetable feature is the rooftop bar and lounge with inspiring urban views of the city skyline framed by an architectural “halo.” The teak pool deck features matching outdoor showers and both indoor and outdoor seating for warm weather fun and relaxation.

In homage to the creative neighborhood it calls home, The James New York features the works of a mix of local and international artists, prominent and up-and-coming, carefully selected by Art Curator Matt Jensen in partnership with Soho based non-profit artist collective, Artists Space (www.artistsspace.org)

The hotel’s every space and detail have been curated by the its many design and artistic partners, from the room numbers – whimsically designed by John Paul Philippe (www.j-pinc.com)  - to the one-of-a-kind furniture pieces hand selected by Cristina Grajales (www.cristinagrajalesinc.com) , whose years of respected residential expertise brought her work with architecture buff Brad Pitt and designer Helmut Lang.

ABOUT THE JAMES

In the realm of hospitality, The James hotel, with locations in Chicago and New York, are authentic, warmly modern, residentially-styled luxury hotels liberated from tradition.

The brand’s core philosophy is evident in each of the ideally situated property’s design aesthetic, culture and personal, intuitive service.

The James New York will debut September 2010 as a stylish alternative for the discerning business and leisure traveler and is located near the corner of Grand and Thompson Streets.

The James New York will feature unique special event spaces, engaging guestrooms and seasonally rotating artwork throughout. www.jameshotels.com

SHERIDAN, Wyo.- The Bighorn Mountains just outside of Sheridan provide locals and visitors the kind of beauty and solitude found only in Wyoming.

Folks wanting to get away from it all this winter should check out this action-packed winter retreat.
Adrenaline junkies will be pleased to discover the over 190 miles of groomed snowmobile trails, and additional marked yet ungroomed trails, of the North Bighorns.

Cross-country skiers and snowshoers will enjoy the Sibley Lake and Cutler ski trails, historically known as logging trails.

For a more peaceful and zen approach check out some of the area’s great ice fishing at Lake DeSmet or Bighorn Lake.

After a day in the cold and snow head back to Sheridan to warm up over a hearty meal and catch some zzz’s in one of the town’s many hotels.

www.sheridanwyomig.org

Detour, The Adventure Travel Marketplace is a unique online adventure travel marketplace that makes it easy for travelers to travel with the top locally run, sustainable travel companies and tour operators in South America and Central America, while saving money by paying their local prices.

Travelers skip paying the overhead fees often charged by larger tour companies while ensuring that their travel dollars truly contribute to the local economy of the destination.

Best of all, travelers who visit Detour’s website will find a one-stop-shop of trips that would fulfill any adventurers travel “dream list”. From cycling and diving tours to horseback riding and rafting,

Detour’s marketplace makes planning a once in a lifetime tour a truly exciting adventure. www.detourdestinations.com

www.detourdestinations.com

Hertz Europe said that it plans to accelerate its adoption of self-service technology by rolling out Self-Service Express touch-screen kiosks from NCR Corporation at selected locations across nine countries in Europefor all customers (not just members) who have prepaid for their rental.

This announcement comes as Hertz launches a free reservations application for the iPhone in 18 languages for customers in Europe.

The Hertz iPhone application allows customers to make reservations, save their Hertz #1 Club member number, search and find nearby Hertz locations, save favorite locations and receive special promotions via their mobile devices.

The Hertz iPhone application is available for download at www.hertz.co.uk/app