Jetsettersblog

The Rezidor Hotel Group, one of the fastest growing hotel companies in the world, is pleased to bring you a special edition of its quarterly newsletter, focusing on winter getaways including viewing the Northern Lights and winter sports.

AT A GLANCE
Most northern serviced hotel in the World New Park Inn for Trysil, Norway Two new resort properties opening in late 2011 – Park Inn by Radisson Rosa Khutor in Russia and the Radisson Blu Resort Bukovel, Ukraine

NORTHERN LIGHTS
NASA has predicted that this season (September 2011 – March/April 2012) will be the best for viewing the Northern Lights for 50 years.

NORWAY

Head to the World’s most northern serviced hotel:
RADISSON BLU POLAR HOTEL, SPITSBERGEN
Located in the heart of Longyearbyen, on Spitsbergen in the Svalbard archipelago, the hotel is just 1,333 kilometres from the North Pole. The island is home to impressive glaciers, majestic Polar bears and a landscape rich in beauty and wildlife.

The hotel offers 95 guestrooms, including 27 apartments and a suite, with breathtaking views of the Arctic surroundings.

A range of winter sports and safari options can be arranged from the hotel including dog sled trips, snowmobiling and an ice grotto tour and, of course, Northern Lights spotting.

For something a little less remote, but still prime Northern Lights viewing head to:

RADISSON BLU HOTEL TROMSØ, NORWAY
Centrally located in the heart of Tromsø and close to excellent shopping and the lively restaurant area. Nature lovers can enjoy Arctic excursions that include cross-country skiing, dog sledding, ice fishing, sea rafting, and whale watching. During winter months, guests can also try their hand at alpine skiing, ice skating and snowmobile safaris.

ICELAND

Iceland’s capital city is a unique mix of enchanting hidden gems, cozy bars and friendly people. Spend your days in the City’s art museums and galleries, restaurants and shops – and then drive half an hour or so out of town for some Northern Lights hunting. If they don’t make an appearance, you can warm up in the City’s bars and clubs.

Stay at:
RADISSON BLU 1919 HOTEL, REYKJAVIK, ICELAND

This historic hotel, housed in the former offices of Iceland’s first shipping company, constructed in 1919, is known for its elegant blend of historic architecture and sleek interiors. It is located next to the main shopping street, close to art galleries and museums. The striking décor includes designer furnishings and hardwood floors.

Or at:
RADISSON BLU SAGA HOTEL, REYKJAVIK, ICELAND

Take in stunning views of the city, sea or glaciers from all rooms at this true Icelandic landmark, situated in the heart of the city.

SKI AND WINTER SPORTS

NORWAY

Trysil is Norway’s largest Alpine resort, with 65 slopes. Favourite activities include alpine or cross country skiing, snowboarding, dog sledding and sleigh rides in 100-year-old horse-drawn sleighs with torches.

Stay at:
RADISSON BLU RESORT TRYSIL

Located in the heart of the ski resort area, the hotel provides ski in ski out access. After a hard day’s skiing, guests can thaw out at the hotel’s Water Adventure Complex, with several indoor swimming pools and Norway’s only indoor surfing wave. The exclusive spa and wellness centre is equipped with Aroma and Turkish steam baths, two Finnish saunas and nine treatment rooms.

Or:
PARK INN TRYSIL MOUNTAIN RESORT

Opening this December, the resort, which is minutes from the slopes, will comprise 369 rooms, suites and apartments with up to 3 bedrooms, making it the ideal destination for family or friends travelling together. Further services will include a restaurant, bar, wellness area, including indoor swimming pool, sauna and 12 treatment rooms.

With Olympic-quality facilities and guaranteed year-round snow with onsite snow-making facilities, Lillehammer in Norway, promises a unique ski experience. As well as dozens of green, blue and black runs, get an adrenalin kick when you race down the Olympic Luge Track at speeds of up to 80 km/hr at Hafjell Alpine Centre.

Stay at:
RADISSON BLU LILLEHAMMER HOTEL, NORWAY

Located just a few hundred metres from the Olympic Park, in an eight acre private park, the Radisson Blu Lillehammer Hotel offers over 300 well-appointed rooms and suites.

Located just 40 km from Fagernes Airport, Beitostolen provides skiers and snowboarders the opportunity to learn new skills within a safe and relaxed atmosphere. Daily family activities run throughout the winter season offering a break from the slopes. The centre of Beitostolen is located at the base of the slopes, next to the lifts, just a few metres away from the hotels and apartments, featuring a good selection of shops and restaurants.

Stay at:
RADISSON BLU RESORT BEITOSTOLEN

The Resort is situated 900m above sea level, surrounded by spectacular nature, but within walking distance of shops, restaurants, ski lifts and other attractions. Guests have access to the resort’s fitness centre with aerobic workout facilities and a Spa treatment and wellbeing centre. The hotel also has a 25-metre swimming pool, sauna, solarium and indoor tennis and squash hall. The hotel restaurant serves both international and local dishes à la carte and is known for its excellent smorgasbord.

FRANCE

Les Arcs has the reputation of being one of the original French “mega-resorts”. All of which have a convenient, large and varied network of pistes. The five areas are situated at an altitude spanning from 810 to 3225 metres, although the best skiing is to be found above 1200 metres. The ski area consists of 106 runs and 54 lifts.

Stay at:
RADISSON BLU RESORT, ARC 1950

An entirely pedestrian resort, this ski-in, ski-out residence is accessible via an underground car park. The resort offers one, two, three and four bedroom apartments, perfect for families or groups of ski buddies. The on-site Brasserie Le 1950 and its bar serve delicious French cuisine and cocktails in a distinctly Parisian brasserie atmosphere. Guests enjoy complimentary access to the residence’s heated outdoor swimming pools, fitness rooms, Jacuzzis, saunas and steam bath rooms.

RUSSIA

Dubbed the Switzerland of Russia, Sochi amazes visitors with dreamy, snow-capped mountains and warm sunny beaches during the winter months.
Spend one day racing down the challenging slopes in Krasnaya Polyana, which sees an average annual snow fall of 1.5 metres, thanks to its position high in the Caucasus Mountains, and the next lounging by the sea.

Other activities include snowboarding, helicopter skiing, paragliding, snow mobile rentals, and hot air balloon rides.

Stay at:
RADISSON LAZURNAYA HOTEL, SOCHI

Challenging skiing, snowboarding, mountain safaris and rafting are just an hour’s drive from the hotel. Guests have unlimited access to a Fitness Centre with indoor/outdoor swimming pool, saunas, Russian and Turkish baths, whirlpool, gym and massage facilities. Traditional Russian cuisine is available at the casual Russian Riviera restaurant or guests can opt for a spot of fine dining at the resort’s ‘Peter the Great’ restaurant.

Just 50km east of Sochi lies the brand new resort of Rosa Khutor. Spread over a 537 hectare Alpine location, the resort boasts 40 different ski runs and a ski school, as well as a variety of dining venues and retail outlets. Hosting the XXII Olympic Winter Games in 2014 this world class resort is not to be missed.

Stay at:
PARK INN BY RADISSON RESORT, ROSA KHUTOR

Situated just a few minutes’ walk from the gondola at the heart of the resort village, is the Park Inn Resort. Due to open in late 2011, this 200 room development is a young and vibrant addition to Rosa Khutor. As well as featuring an on-site restaurant, guests will have complimentary access to the leisure and meeting facilities of the nearby Radisson Resort, scheduled to open in 2012.

UKRAINE

Ukraine’s most modern ski resort, Bukovel, situated in the Carpathian Mountains offers dramatic views of snow-capped peaks and untouched nature. A wide range of slopes are available for skiers of all abilities, from Beginner to Black Diamond level. For the non-skiers there is the opportunity to experience hot springs and mineral waters, ideal for both recreational enjoyment and health benefit.

Stay at:
RADISSON BLU RESORT, BUKOVEL

Scheduled to open in the 2011/12 Winter season, the Radisson Blu Resort features 252 rooms, as well as a range of retail shops, restaurants, bars and for those who want to enjoy après ski to the full, a nightclub. For families with young children there is a kids club and games room facilities. Guests also have access to a spacious and well-equipped spa & wellness complex, featuring an indoor pool, steam room and sauna, fitness suite and treatment rooms, perfect for relaxing after a long day on the slopes.

SWEDEN

Exciting and trendy, Hammarby Sjostad is just five kilometres from Stockholm’s city centre. It has recently undergone major regeneration and provides one of the World’s highest profile examples of Sustainable City Development. Situated on the edge of a lake, the use of glass in the buildings allows for low impact, almost uninterrupted views of the scenery.

Stay at:
PARK INN STOCKHOLM HAMMARBY SJOSTAD

The ski slope is directly outside the hotel’s front door and shops and the Ericsson Globe event arena are a few minutes away. The hotel provides 178 bright, colourful guest rooms; a bar integrated into the lobby and reception, an RBG Bar & Grill and indoor parking facilities.

Leading ski accommodation website www.Skipad.co.uk has launched a dedicated ‘For Sale’ section. Winter sports enthusiasts can now search for chalets and apartments on the market, as well as properties available for season-long lets. This new service compliments Skipad.co.uk’s existing rental accommodation listings, of nearly 1,000 properties, on the site established in October 2010.

Speaking about the new service, Skipad.co.uk’s Founder, Gary Hector explains: “We are very proud of the ‘For Sale’ section. It is the next stage of development in Skipad.co.uk’s ongoing plan to offer more services, making the website a one-stop shop for all ski accommodation”.

Skipad.co.uk now boasts ski properties for sale from popular resorts in France, Switzerland and Austria.

Skipad.co.uk’s sliding scale search facility makes it quick and simple for potential buyers to browse the wide selection of properties listed on the website. Visitors can refine search results in terms of country, region, price, living area, as well as the number of bedrooms and bathrooms. The search facility clearly indicates the number of properties available matching requirements.

For those looking to sell or advertise a season-long let, there are fantastic benefits of registering a property on Skipad.co.uk’s ‘For Sale’ section. The feature-rich website offers an easy-to-use interface with user guide, and Google map function with satellite views. Most notably, there is no commission charge, simply a small flat fee for either a three or six month listing. Private sellers can update their listings as often as they wish, using the easy-to-use control panel. Furthermore, there are SEO benefits to be enjoyed – links are generated via Google and search engines direct to individual properties.

Please visit http://www.skipad.co.uk/skipropertyforsale/ for full details.

One Off Places, the website for unique and quirky holiday rentals, is thrilled to announce the launch of Kasbah Tabelkoukt, a seven bedroom boutique hotel in Morocco’s Sahara desert. A magnificent place in a wild setting, where you can enjoy sumptuous interiors and an infinity pool overlooking the Atlantic.

There are seven rooms, available to let either by the room or the entire building. Bedrooms, each individually styled, are all en-suite. Most have their own fireplace and terrace. Arches and high, carved antique doors are throughout and a magnificent four-pillared fireplace brings extra punch to the dining room. The internal courtyard gives the house the perfect heart.

Tabitha Symonds, co-founder and director of oneoffplaces.co.uk, said of this new addition to the portfolio; `This is one of our more dramatic One Off Places – perched on a cliff with desert on three sides, and the vast Atlantic Ocean on the fourth – it seems to be daring the ocean to reach up the rockface and grab it. What better opportunity to get to the heart of Morocco`.

The Kasbah is just outside the Berber town of Mirleft, perfectly placed for visiting the towns of Morocco’s ‘deep south’. Mirleft has 360 days of sunshine per year, and an average temperature of 25 degrees – making it an excellent escape from the UK’s colder months. Dramatic beaches and the proximity to the Anti-Atlas mountains allow for endless activity if you can drag yourself away from the Kasbah.

€140 – €200 per night for a deluxe room. €200 – €250 for a mini suite (triple room including Jacuzzi). €1500 – €2000 per night for whole hotel. All rates include breakfast.

http://www.oneoffplaces.co.uk/Africa/Morocco/Agadir—Ouarzazate/Kasbah-Tabelkoukt.aspx

For more information on these and the other unique properties in the collection, including a truck conversion in the Scottish Highlands; a treehouse in Somerset; a roundhouse in France; a houseboat in Amsterdam; a yurt in Portugal; a safari tent in Italy; a colonial villa in Sri Lanka; windmills, castles, eco houses, tents, tipis and yurts; visit www.oneoffplaces.co.uk

Merrion Charles, Specialist Private Travel Consultant for Italy, is thrilled to announce the addition of La Corte di San Giacomo to her luxury villa portfolio – a spectacular property near Siracusa, Sicily boasting exceptional gardens and authentic interiors.

La Corte di San Giacomo
This month’s highlighted villa! Sleeping up to 24 people, La Corte di San Giacomo could not be a more special and memorable destination for a gathering of friends or family. Steeped in history and character, with every comfort one could wish for, La Corte di San Giacomo benefits from extensive and glorious gardens, a magnificent pool surrounded by al fresco dining area and even a sauna and hammam for additional relaxation! With views to Mount Etna, beaches nearby and a short drive to the delightful historic town of Siracusa, La Corte is situated in an ideal location for exploration of Eastern Sicily. With superb and charming staff available to cater for guests’ every need, La Corte di San Giacomo is a glorious destination not only in the summer months but throughout the year and ideal for a large family get together at Christmas!

Price guide: From €12000 per week for 12 people in low season to €27.500 for 24 people in peak season

Also available at Christmas and New Year – a delightful time to enjoy Sicily and gather with friends in the most gorgeous and luxurious home.
GREAT VALUE at only €12.000 per week for 12 people!!

About Merrion Charles
Top expert in the field of bespoke, tailor made travel, Merrion Charles has an enviable selection of hand picked villas throughout Italy (as well as further afield) ideal for families, large gatherings of friends or couples on honeymoon. Merrion lives in Italy, speaks the language fluently and is passionate about all things Italian. She visits all the properties she promotes and is highly reliable in her discerning choice of villas & hotels with the unusual gift of providing a truly individual and professional service. Nothing is too much trouble – she is genuine, honest and highly efficient with competitive prices and absolute integrity.
To find out more about Merrion Charles and her villa & hotel portfolio as well as her cookery courses and ski safaris go to www.merrioncharles.com

The new ‘Spirit of Christmas’ package (from £240 per room per night) is a unique festive offering beginning with a bespoke candle-making course with Rachel Vosper, one of the UK’s leading chandlers. At her new boutique in Kinnerton Street, students select a scent from Vosper’s extensive fragrance library and create a unique Christmas gift. Favourite festive scents include Christmas rose, as well as spiced amber with burnt orange. Champagne and mince pies are included.

After the candle-making course guests are invited to enjoy a ‘Winter Warmer Martini’ at the newly opened Lowndes Bar & Kitchen. Head Chef Martin Gabler has mixed vodka, cranberry, lime juice and cinnamon liqueur finished with gold sparkles to create the perfect tipple to warm you through before taking a stroll to the Natural History Museum Ice Rink. This stunning attraction, surrounded by tall trees decorated with 76,000 twinkling fairy lights and nestled in the front lawn of an iconic London landmark, adds a touch of romance to a crisp winter’s night.

For those who wish to follow their own agenda but would like to visit the Natural History Museum Ice Rink, the ‘Skate & Stay’ package (from £225 per room per night) is also available, including a pair of skating tickets and overnight accommodation.

Jumeirah Lowndes Hotel is a sought-after retreat in the heart of Belgravia, perfect for those seeking elegant surrounds and personalised, five-star service. The hotel offers 87 bedrooms including 14 spacious suites on the dedicated all-suite 6th floor, complimentary wi-fi and access to The Peak Health Club & Spa. For more information, visit www.jumeirahlowndeshotel.com

Package details:

Spirit of Christmas
Price: From £240 per room
Inclusions: Deluxe bedroom
2-hour bespoke candle-making course with candle maker Rachel Vosper
Winter Warmer cocktail at Lowndes Bar & Kitchen (one per person)
Ice-skating at the Natural History Museum
Valid: 4 Nov 2011 to 8 Jan 2012

To book: Enter promotional code SPIRITOF to book online via www.jumeirah.com  or call 020 7823 1234 and quote ‘Spirit of Christmas’

Further terms and conditions may apply. Package is subject to availability.

Stay & Skate
Price: From £225 per room
Inclusions: Deluxe bedroom and continental breakfast
Ice-skating at the Natural History Museum
Winter Warmer cocktail at Lowndes Bar & Kitchen (one per person)
Valid: 4 Nov 2011 until 8 Jan 2012

To book: Enter promotional code STAYSKATE to book online via www.jumeirah.com
or call 020 7823 1234 and quote ‘Skate & Stay’

Further terms and conditions may apply. Package is subject to availability.

Notes

Natural History Museum Ice Rink

Set within the historic Victorian grounds of the Natural History Museum, the Ice Rink has become an integral part of London’s winter scene since it first opened in 2005. It’s impressive 1,000 square metre ice rink is one of London’s must-see winter attractions. Guests can also warm up in the cosmopolitan and cosy Café Bar, offering an extensive menu of sumptuous food, hot and cold drinks and entertainment for all to enjoy. To book, please visit www.nhmskating.com  or telephone
0844 847 1576.

Brendan is “Taking You Personally” With Two FREE Nights in The Land Down Under ~

Brendan Vacations was one of the first US tour operators to sell the South Pacific to Americans! Now Brendan has a fantastic offer to see more of this breathtaking destination.

Book your dream Brendan Vacations’ air+land vacation to Sydney and receive your second destination within Australia for FREE!* Simply book your Qantas roundtrip airfare between the USA and Sydney, and a minimum of three hotel nights in Sydney with Brendan, and you will receive two free hotel nights in Cairns, Melbourne or Brisbane, and free roundtrip domestic air transportation on Qantas (between Sydney and Cairns, Melbourne or Brisbane).

Dream, discover and book Australia with Brendan Vacations:

Sydney– Sydney is Australia’s largest and premier metropolitan city with famous icons such as the magnificent Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbor. The city is home to amazing beaches- which include Bondi Beach, Manly Beach and Coogee Beach. Sydney has many other world-class tourist attractions such as Darling Harbor, with wonderful views of the waterfront; the Sydney Monorail system and the Blue Mountains, just a 1.5 hour drive west of Sydney.

Cairns– Located in Tropical North Queensland and known as the International gateway to the Great Barrier Reef. The city enjoys 300 days of sunshine each year, making it a great place to visit year-round. Cairns has magnificent attractions such as the train to Kuranda, where you can climb mountain ranges through tropical rainforest and waterfalls; the Barron River where you can enjoy river rafting; or the outer Barrier Reef with amazing snorkel, dive and various day-cruise opportunities to view a myriad of colorful coral and marine life.

Melbourne — Melbourne is the second most populous city in Australia and the capital of the state of Victoria. Melbourne’s lifestyle and climate are all part of what inspires people to live in this culturally rich city. Melbourne is a maze of unusual street and laneways that are home to many bars, restaurants and shopping boutiques. Visit Federation Square, the city’s landmark cultural space or stroll Southbank and try out the gourmet goodness at its restaurants, cafes, bistros and bars.

Brisbane– Brisbane is the third most populous city in Australia and the capital of the state of Queensland. Once regarded as a little brother to some of Australia’s better known destinations, Brisbane has grown to become a full-fledged travel destination thoroughly cultured with a style of its own. Blending art, music, entertainment and an abundant collection of Australian wildlife, there is little a travel enthusiast won’t find within its city limits.

Hurry–This Brendan Vacations Australia offer must be booked before December 30, 2011 and travel must be completed by 6/30/2012!*

For more information on Brendan Vacations’ Customized, Locally Hosted, Boutique or Escorted Vacations, please call Brendan Vacations at 1 (800) 421-8446 or visit www.BrendanVacations.com  for complete details.

About Brendan Vacations
Brendan Vacations, the Ireland Specialist, is a leading US tour operator offering a wide selection of Guided, Customized, Locally Hosted and Group travel options. Established in 1969, and true to its Irish roots and traditions, the company’s portfolio now includes over 800 packages and 10,000 hotels in Ireland, the UK, Europe, Egypt, Asia, Australia, New Zealand, Tahiti, Fiji, Mexico, South and Central America. With high quality products, friendly service and competitive pricing, Brendan Vacations believes in “Taking You Personally” and offers memorable experiences for every client. Headquartered in Los Angeles, Brendan Vacations is a respected brand of The Travel Corporation and employs over 100 travel professionals. A satellite office in Ireland contracts product and manages inbound traffic for cruise lines, incentive houses, meeting planners and tour operators. Brendan Vacations is a founding member of USTOA and other professional affiliations include ASTA, PATA, OSSN and NTA. CST#2084503-20.

Terms & Conditions
*Offer is only valid with the minimum purchase of transpacific flights (roundtrip USA to Sydney on Qantas International) AND minimum 3 hotel nights in Sydney. Customized air-inclusive Itinerary to Sydney must be booked with Brendan Vacations between 10/10/11-12/30/11 for travel through 6/30/12. Maximum two FREE hotel nights + Domestic Qantas air between Sydney and Melbourne, Cairns or Brisbane will be offered (value of free offer cannot exceed $400 total per double occupancy booking for Brisbane or Melbourne/$450 total for Cairns). Offer does not include Guided Vacations, Group travel and certain QANTAS destinations. Air taxes for the FREE domestic flights are included. Valid for new bookings only. Restrictions may apply, subject to black-out dates and availability. Offer may be withdrawn at any time. Please mention promo code MAAUS (Brisbane/Melbourne) OR MACNS (Cairns) when booking. Booking must be paid in full by 12/30/11

Are you looking for an enriching family vacation? A vacation where you can bring history and culture alive in an educational manner, yet make it enlightening? Uniworld has developed multigenerational family-friendly river cruises specifically to appeal to grandparents and parents who wish to share the gift of enlightening travel with the special young people in their lives.

These Travel + Leisure top-rated cruises with special shore excursions have been tailored specifically for the family and feature special family pricing with young people between 4 and 18 traveling at 50% off the cruise price when traveling with an adult. Add in all meals, entertainment, special signature lectures and demonstrations onboard; exciting shore excursions, fully hosted by local guides; complimentary use of bicycles; and transfers of departure and arrival days – ALL of which are included, and you have the ideal, hassle-free, value-packed family vacation.

Uniworld offers two itineraries in July and August of 2012 with Multigenerational family-friendly sailings and dates including Burgundy and Provence, and Paris and Normandy.

Sail the Rhône and Saône rivers from Arles to Chalon su Saône for eight sun-filled days on the River Royale and experience the heart of Burgundy and Provence. Discover regions filled with UNESCO World Heritage Sites—Arles, immortalized by Van Gogh’s paintings; and the well-preserved Medieval city of Avignon, with its spectacular Palace of the Popes. Kayak on the Gardon River to Pont du Gard while in Avignon, and bike through Lyon to the Parc de la Tête d’Or and visit an open-air zoo and ride a carousel.

Or take your family on a journey through Northern France with two nights in Paris, and a seven-night cruise along the Seine from Paris to Normandy onboard the River Baroness. Let the pages of history books, famous paintings inspired by the luminous countryside and seaside villages, and the great classics come to life. Relive the classic tale of The Hunchback of Notre Dame as you climb the bell tower made famous by Quasimodo. Take a helium balloon ride offering unobstructed views of Paris. Follow in the footsteps of Van Gogh, Cezanne, and Monet as you sail through the countryside of Northern France and enjoy “Sun and Fun” in Honfleur. Traipse through Monet’s Gardens while in Giverny. In Rouen, see the site where Joan of Arc was martyred. Hike the Stronghold of Richard the Lionheart, Chateau Gaillard, while in Les Andelys, and discover why he picked this spot high above the Seine to build his fortress. While in Normandy, stand on the beaches where Allied forces landed during the World War II D-Day invasion and share as a family the meaningful events that forever changed the world.

For more information, call Uniworld at 1-800-868-7905 or visit www.uniworld.com.

About Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection

Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection , the world’s only authentic boutique cruise line™, is recognized among the “World’s Best River Cruises” by Travel + Leisure. In Condé Nast Traveler ’s Readers’ Choice Awards, Uniworld received the number one spot for the “World’s Top Small Ship Line,” was named to their prestigious Gold List, and won “Best River Ships” in their Readers’ Poll, which ranked River Beatrice and River Duchess the #1 and #2 river ships in the world.

Uniworld’s cabins and dining are also ranked among the top three in the world by Zagat Survey®; Uniworld is the only river cruise line named in the Zagat Survey® amongst the best of the best in the cruise industry. Uniworld features luxurious boutique ships with an average capacity of 130 guests, included shore excursions, world-class gourmet cuisine, and award-winning hospitality. Uniworld offers over 500 departures sailing on over 13 rivers in more than 20 countries throughout Europe, Russia, Egypt, China, Vietnam, and Cambodia.

Uniworld is a member of CLIA, Cruise Lines International Association

Cruise Baltic has added Gdansk, Poland, as a member, bringing its total number of destinations to 25. “Gdansk’s location lends itself to being a strategic port on the coast of the Baltic Sea,” said Cruise Baltic Director Bo Larsen. “The port is the largest in Poland and the historic, medieval city of Gdansk is an extremely popular tourist destination with its diverse culture, museums, galleries, its reputation as the world capital of amber and also the nearby scenic beaches.”

The announcement was made at the Seatrade Europe industry meeting, where Cruise Baltic also gave the first Cruise Baltic Crown Award to Nigel Lingard, marketing director of Fred Olsen Cruise Lines.“Nigel Lingard is the first recipient of our Crown Award. He is the ultimate cruise industry professional who has been a key and loyal supporter of our network in his role at Fred Olsen; his advice and experience have contributed greatly to the development of our region,” Larsen said. “The Baltic itineraries operated by Fred Olsen are renowned and prove tremendously popular with cruise guests.”

On receiving the award, Lingard said, “I first fell in love with the Baltic region when I worked with Silja Line back in the ’70s. The opportunity to help to develop the cruise business has been a real joy, and I have worked with some 30 ports in the Baltic over the years. What they all have in common is that they deliver customer satisfaction and that’s what will ensure their continued success.”

“One of the main reasons for introducing the Cruise Baltic Crown Award scheme is to thank and acknowledge our cruise industry partners for their co-operation and support,” Larsen explained. “The award will be given to either a person, or organization, who/which has made a significant contribution towards promoting and growing the Baltic Sea Region as a cruise destination.”

Cruise Baltic is a network of cruise destinations in the Baltic Sea made up of 10 countries. The association started in 2004 with 12 destinations and has grown to 25 destinations. For more information, visit www.cruisebaltic.com

Golden Gate Bridge Celebrates 75th Anniversary in 2012 with “75 Tributes” Spanning the Year

May 27, 2012 marks 75 years for the Golden Gate Bridge and the San Francisco Bay Area is making big plans to honor the history, beauty, and ingenuity of this famous span. The Golden Gate Bridge, Highway and Transportation District and the Golden Gate National Parks Conservancy, in cooperation with the National Park Service and the Presidio Trust, are developing a 75th anniversary program that will not only include a “75 Tributes” program beginning as early as January 2012 but also yield some permanent enhancements to the Golden Gate Bridge experience.

A spectacular two-day celebration is being planned May 26-27, 2012. Located along the San Francisco waterfront, the event will tell the story of the Golden Gate Bridge and provide an opportunity for the Bay Area community to celebrate together. The free celebration will feature exhibits, memorabilia, historic artifacts, music, entertainment, guided walks, and spectacular surprise finale. On the evening of Saturday, May 26, there will be a free public screening of a popular film that prominently features the bridge. The bridge will not close to vehicles as it did for the 50th anniversary celebration in 1987.

Activities and special commemorative events will take place throughout the coming year. Leading up to and following the Memorial Day weekend in 2012, many civic, cultural and educational organizations will produce their own tributes to the Golden Gate Bridge. The Bay Area Discovery Museum, California Academy of Sciences, California Historical Society, Exploratorium, Golden Gate Brass Band and YMCA San Francisco are among the many organizations participating in the “75 Tributes” program. Some of the community tributes will be ticketed events; however the majority will be free.

Plans are underway to transform this international gateway into a visitor destination befitting its natural beauty and historic significance. Improvements to the site include:

New Golden Gate Bridge Pavilion to welcome visitors, house celebratory merchandise, and display interpretive exhibits

Conversion of the iconic Round House from a gift shop to a space for visitor and education programs
Revitalization of the bridge plaza to serve as a gathering and orientation space
Restoration of trails and scenic vistas

Construction of a dramatic new Golden Gate Overlook on the southwest side of the bridge

A complete schedule will be posted on www.goldengatebridge75.org

San Francisco Hosts the 34th America’s Cup in 2013

One hundred and sixty years old, the America’s Cup is the oldest trophy in international sport. America’s Cup has evolved into one of the world’s leading sporting competitions featuring the best sailors on the world’s fastest boats — the wing‐sailed AC45 and AC72 catamarans.

The new America’s Cup World Series — featuring all of the America’s Cup competitors — stops in San Francisco in August and September of 2012, with the 34th America’s Cup beginning July 4-Sept. 1, 2013, starting first with the Louis Vuitton Cup, and finishing with the America’s Cup Finals Sept. 7-22, 2013. For more information visit www.americascup.com

Cause for Celebration: Innovative Grants for the Arts Program

Funded through San Francisco Hotel Tax Fund Marks 50th Anniversary

San Francisco’s Grants for the Arts (GFTA), one of America’s most innovative arts funding programs, is celebrating its 50th anniversary Oct. 7, 2011. Over the past five decades the program, funded through the city’s Hotel Tax Fund, has linked nonprofit arts, culture and tourism in a model that has been emulated by a number of other destinations. In 1961 Mayor George Christopher proposed a “painless way” to help fund not only the city’s destination promotion agency, then known as the San Francisco Convention & Visitors Bureau, but also earmark a percentage of the new hotel tax for cultural activities.

When the Publicity and Advertising Fund, a component of the city’s Hotel Tax Fund, was first created, public support of the arts was virtually non-existent. At this time there was no National Endowment for the Arts, no California Arts Council and practically no corporate funding. In its first year the fund’s budget was $553,000, significant for its time. In FY 2010/11 general operating support grants have grown to more than $9.3 million and provide funding for 207 groups. Grantees support 6,112 jobs and economic activity in excess of $453.8 million. Results of a recent cultural traveler survey conducted by the San Francisco Travel Association confirmed that the arts are an important reason why visitors come to San Francisco, with almost 70 percent of the respondents rating them as “important or very important.” Grants for the Arts is celebrating its anniversary on Oct. 7, 2011 with a special performance at noon at City Hall. For information visit www.sfgfta.org.

Dine About Town Returns Jan. 15-31, 2012

Dine About Town San Francisco will return for the 11th year Jan. 15-31, 2012, providing visitors with an incentive to experience San Francisco’s finest restaurants at a significantly reduced price. Diners will be able to select from more than 100 participating restaurants offering a two-course lunch menu for $17.95 and/or a three-course dinner menu for $34.95. This pricing can represent up to a 25 percent savings off regularly priced a la carte items. American Express® is the preferred method of payment for Dine About Town, and Cardmembers will earn $15 back when they dine three or more times during Dine About Town at any participating restaurants and pay with their American Express® Card.

The complete restaurant list for Dine About Town San Francisco will be posted after Dec. 15, 2011 at www.dineabouttown.com.

San Francisco’s “49 Hours of SF: Holidays” Adds Sparkle to the Season

There are no ordinary weekends in a city like San Francisco. The San Francisco Travel Association just wrapped up an arts and culture campaign built around the premise that 48 hours is just not enough to experience all there is to see and do in the City by the Bay. And to prove it, they are launching a new campaign for the holidays: “49 Hours of SF: Holidays.” The goal is to encourage visitors to plan a 48-hour weekend getaway – plus an hour. Invoking the spirit of the legendary 49ers who came to San Francisco in 1849 seeking gold, the campaign will include 49 Hour holiday itineraries, a holiday event calendar and discounted hotel packages. Complete details will be available beginning Nov. 1, 2011 at www.49HoursofSF.com  or call 415-391-2000.

Weekend Closure of Doyle Drive Connector to Golden Gate Bridge Anticipated for Late 2011

A major section of Hwy. 101 in San Francisco, which connects the Golden Gate Bridge to Lombard Street, will be closed for one full weekend in late fall. During the closure weekend, traffic will be permanently taken off this section of highway, known as Doyle Drive, and moved onto a temporary bypass while the project is completed. The date for the closure weekend has not yet been determined as key construction milestones must be reached in order to announce the closure date. Based on the current progress, there is an ambitious goal of closing the roadway for a weekend in November 2011.

It is anticipated that the date of the closure will be announced in mid-October. Hwy. 1 (Park Presidio Boulevard) to and from the Golden Gate Bridge will remain open during the closure weekend, but major delays along the corridor are expected. Residents and visitors are strongly encouraged to take the San Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridge or alternate modes of transportation such as the ferries which depart from the Ferry Building and Fisherman’s Wharf. The closure is part of an ongoing $1.045 billion replacement of Doyle Drive that is scheduled to be completed in 2014. Visit www.PresidioParkway.org  for the latest information and to sign-up for email updates.

Kraft Fight Hunger Bowl Secures Saturday, New Year’s Eve Game Date for 2011

The Kraft Fight Hunger Bowl has landed a prime Saturday afternoon, New Year’s Eve date for its 10th annual bowl game at San Francisco’s AT&T Park. Kickoff for the nationally-televised ESPN contest is 12:30 p.m. (PST) on Dec. 31, 2011. The game will feature a PAC-12 team vs. Army.

“We’re thrilled that our 2011 game will be held on a Saturday, the traditional day for college football, and on New Year’s Eve, when interest in bowl season is peaking,” noted Kraft Fight Hunger Bowl Executive Director Gary Cavalli. With Kraft Foods, the world’s second largest food company, coming on board as title sponsor in April 2010, the game is the lone contest in the 35-game bowl lineup to directly associate itself with a social cause – eradicating hunger in the U.S. The game has sold out four times in the last five years. For information visit www.kraftbowl.org.

San Francisco Giants Announce Tentative 2012 Regular Season Schedule

The San Francisco Giants are scheduled to kick off their 2012 campaign at Arizona on Friday, April 6 and play their home opener against the Pittsburgh Pirates on Friday, April 13, the club announced on Sept. 14, 2011. It will be the ninth time since 2000 that the club has opened the season on the road. Following the opening road trip to Arizona and Colorado, the Giants will return to AT&T Park for their first homestand of the year with a three-game series against both the Pirates and Philadelphia Phillies.

The 2012 season will feature an unbalanced schedule in which the Giants will play 18 games against each of their four National League West rivals — Arizona, Colorado, Los Angeles and San Diego. The Giants will face the American League West in interleague play, with a three-game home series against their 2010 World Series opponent Texas Rangers June 8-10, followed by a nine-game road trip to Seattle, Anaheim and Oakland June 15-24. The Giants will also host the A’s May 18-20. Additional highlights of the San Francisco Giants’ 2012 home campaign include:

13 home weekends in all, including a pair of weekend sets against the Dodgers (July 27-29; Sept. 7-9) and one against the Cubs (June 1-4) and Braves (Aug. 23-26). Giants will play back-to-back weekends just once (June 1-4 and June 8-10).

A pair of 10-game homestands, including the final homestand of the year against Colorado (Sept. 17-20), San Diego (Sept. 21-23) and Arizona (Sept. 25-27).

Giants will face the Dodgers three times at AT&T Park: June 25-27, July 27-29 and Sept. 7-9.
Home games on Memorial Day (May 28) and Labor Day (Sept. 3), both vs. Arizona.
For season ticket information visit www.sfgiants.com  or call 415-972-2298.

Tickets on Sale for U.S. Open Championship at San Francisco’s The Olympic Club June 11-17, 2012

Tickets are on sale for the 2012 U.S. Open Championship scheduled June 11-17, 2012 at The Olympic Club. This is the fifth time that the U.S. Open will be conducted at The Olympic Club and the first time since 1998. Limited tickets are still available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Tickets include free public parking and shuttle bus transportation to and from the parking area and Championship entrance. Visit www.USGA.org/tickets  to purchase tickets or call 800-698-0661 for a written application.