Targeting Americans who plan to stay close to home this year, Funjet Vacations launched a sale on packages for American cities called the Funjet America Land of the Free Sale. The sale applies to bookings made through Feb. 23 for travel through Sept. 28. Sale prices apply to packages for American cities such as Las Vegas, Orlando and New Orleans.

Special deals include free nights, kids stay free offers, reduced rates, free room upgrades and car rental discounts.

Funjet is putting its suite of marketing tools in service to help travel agents market the sale, including its Easy Emailer tool, which allows agents to pull sale pricing by origin, and turn-key ePostcards that can be emailed to clients.

With some hotels, agents can earn 2 percent bonus commission on the hotel portion of the reservation.

Funjet Vacations is the flagship brand of the family-owned Mark Travel Corporation offering vacation packages with more than 20 air carriers, 300 origins, 26,000 hotels and 900 destinations, including Mexico, the Caribbean, Hawaii, U.S. cities, Europe, Asia and Central America.

Room rates will range from $189 to $450 per night.

The inn also welcomes guests to the 1915 Restaurant, which features a local and sustainable menu, and the Bear Mountain Trading Company, where visitors can find park souvenirs, crafts, local food items and jewelry. Bear Mountain Inn is an historic landmark, listed on the National and New York State Registers of Historic Places, constructed entirely of stone and timber native to the area. The facilities include playing fields, picnic groves, rowboat docks, a swimming pool and bathhouse, hiking trails that include the first segment of the Appalachian National Scenic Trail, an ice skating rink, basketball court, the Trailside Museum and Zoo, and the Bear Mountain Merry-Go-Round and pavilion. Event catering is under the leadership of award-winning Executive Chef Michael Matarazzo. The Bear Mountain Inn is managed by Guest Services, Inc., a private hospitality company.

The five designers, who specialize in a range of concepts from tailored menswear to avant garde women’s apparel, will officially be introduced by W Hotels Global Fashion Director Jenné Lombardo during a private cocktail event at W New York Union Square’s newest nightspot, Lilium.

Lombardo has handpicked each of the designers for the fourth season of Fashion Next, the brand’s fashion initiative that fosters and supports emerging designers during Fashion Week and beyond.

While W has added two new designers this season, Haus Alkire and Suzanne Rae, designers Bibhu Mohapatra, Nomia and Rochambeau will return for a consecutive season.

W Hotels will host four of the designers’ official presentations in the Box venue at Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week and support Mohapatra as he stages his first runway show in the Studio at Lincoln Center on Feb. 13, 2012.

Virgin Atlantic announced details of its new Clubhouse at New York-JFK Airport.

It will be 10,000 square feet and will open early next month. The design is a joint effort of an in-house design team and the New York-based architectural practice, Slade Architecture. The idea is create an “Uptown” themed space. It will be a combination of a private members club, boutique hotel lobby, restaurant service and chic bar plus a few surprises. It will be located airside, adjacent to the Virgin Atlantic gates, allowing passengers to maximize their time in the Clubhouse before boarding the aircraft.

The new lounge will also introduce Virgin Atlantic’s first overseas spa.

As part of the spa treatments, there will be the first-ever hair salon in any U.S. business class lounge, with services provided by renowned New York City-based salon and product company Bumble and bumble.

Virgin Atlantic offers three daily flights from JFK to London Heathrow, plus additional twice-daily flights from Newark to London Heathrow.

Alaska Airlines will start daily nonstop service between Seattle and Philadelphia, starting June 11, and between Seattle and Fort Lauderdale, Fla., beginning July 16. With the introduction of Seattle-Fort Lauderdale service, Alaska Airlines will discontinue flights to Miami, a city the carrier has served from its Seattle hub since 2002.

Introductory fares start at $190 each way between Seattle and Philadelphia, and at $170 each way between Seattle and Fort Lauderdale. Both fares include all government taxes and fees. Tickets must be purchased by Feb. 13 and can be used for travel through July 11 for Philadelphia and by Aug. 29, 2012, for Fort Lauderdale.

NEW YORK, NY – For more than a century, The Algonquin Hotel, located on Manhattan’s Club Row at 44th between Fifth and Sixth Avenues, has been home to famous literary gatherings (birthplace of the New Yorker magazine) and its resident feline Matilda. This New York City and Literary Landmark will usher in a new era as the oldest operating hotel in NYC closes its doors for a make-over from guts to décor.

Already a favorite among discerning and knowledgeable business and leisure travelers who cherish its legacy, the millions of guests that have checked into the just-steps-away from Times Square gem, will find the new look and feel to capture a modern spirit without losing the original character and detail they adore about the property.

The Algonquin (a member of the Marriott International Autograph Collection) has collaborated with industry design experts from the award winning firm, Intra-Spec, Inc (credits include: The Muse Hotel in New York, Mandarin Oriental in San Francisco, Copley Square Hotel in Boston) to create sophisticated rooms that will bring guests an ideal escape from the busy, bustling city streets. Guests will find the new rooms and suites design bring a peaceful ambiance using soft colors, plush amenities bringing to life the local flavor of the Big Apple.

With everything new, it was paramount the hotel remain timeless, keeping true to the provenance and distinguished attributes. Much of the original millwork on the first two floors will remain; the lobby will maintain its wonderful sense of intimacy with small seating groups featuring furnishings that are updated classics. The second floor will feature an art display of Round Table members and memorabilia, amidst more contemporary elements.

The once popular cabaret Oak Room will close to make room for an expanded Blue Bar which will still serve up its classic Dirty Martinis and Manhattans. The extensive collection of original Al Hirschfield characters will reline the Blue Bar walls and an additional entrance via the hotel lobby will be added (to the existing separate street entrance).

Perhaps the most famous face of The Algonquin is Matilda the cat whom will again take permanent residency after returning from a vacation.

The Algonquin is set to re-open late spring and updates will be provided ongoing on the property website www.algonquinhotel.com , Facebook page www.facebook.com/AlgonquinHotel  and Twitter page @algonquinNYC.

About The Algonquin Hotel

The Algonquin Hotel is located in the heart of midtown Manhattan on Club Row at 44th Street between Fifth and Sixth Avenues, just steps from Broadway’s Theatres and world-class shopping. Home to Dorothy Parker’s famous Round Table and birthplace of the New Yorker magazine, the Algonquin Hotel is highly regarded by travelers the world over.

About Autograph Collection

The Autograph Collection is an evolving ensemble of strikingly independent luxury hotels. Each destination has been selected for its bold originality, rich character and uncommon details.

From near to far, iconic to historic, the result is an array of properties that is nothing less than completely unique, nothing short of collectively exceptional. For more information please visit www.autographhotels.com

The Beverly Hills-based interior design firm of Forchielli Glynn LLC tapped local artisans for many of the furnishings and artwork, creating a new look that enhances the connection between the interiors and surrounding gardens while preserving the hotel’s original DNA – the essence of Southern California living in a setting evocative of a luxurious but relaxed Beverly Hills estate. The Grand Deluxe Suite was designed by American design icon Nancy Corzine, who is known for her contemporary luxe style and signature line of furnishings.

The Peninsula Suite at The Peninsula New York (May 2012) –The Peninsula New York will reveal a glamorous new look for The Peninsula Suite designed by Bill Rooney, featuring more than 3,000 square feet of living space and panoramic views over 5th Avenue and the glittering skyline of Manhattan.

The Peninsula Hong Kong New Guestroom Design & Enhancement Program (August 2012) — The Grande Dame of Hong Kong has embarked on a landmark two-phase room enhancement program. The project will see all 297 of the hotel’s guestrooms transformed, initially focusing on guestrooms in The Peninsula Tower, which will re-open in August 2012, followed by the guestrooms within the Original Building, to be fully unveiled in early 2013.

Conceived by The Peninsula Hotels in-house design team and assisted by Getty’s as executive interior designer, the newly enhanced rooms showcase the finest materials and craftsmanship, boasting a bespoke luxury residential feel, with an accent on Classic Modernity, simplicity and chic elegance.

Guest- Focused Technology Unveiled at The Peninsula Hong Kong (September 2012) – Revolutionary in-room technology unveiled at The Peninsula Hong Kong will set new standards of guest personalization.

Much more is on the horizon from Asia’s oldest luxury hotel company. We look forward to sharing more news and story ideas with you in the months ahead.

The Peninsula All-Suite Hotel – “Situated on an exclusive stretch of pristine Cape coastline known as The Platinum Mile, The Peninsula All-Suite Hotel is renowned for its intimate home-away-from-home appeal. Experience the matchless style and subtle elegance of this internally acclaimed Cape Town luxury accommodation, featuring 110 indulgently spacious suites equipped with every modern convenience and private balconies affording spectacular ocean views. Within easy reach of scenic wine routes, beautiful beaches and botanical gardens, this Cape Town luxury hotel cultivates refined living with a distinctly South African approach.”

This Valentine’s Day, Loews Hotels invites guests to “Get a Room” with special rates and tasty treats ideal for a romantic getaway. The Get a Room package from Loews Hotels will be offering accommodations throughout the month of February, along with a special menu of uniquely local nibbles and specialty cocktails created just for the occasion. Get a complimentary coupon and enjoy a consenting adult’s libation.

At Loews Miami Beach Hotel, savor a Cupid’s Cosmo with Absolut Citron, Chambord, and pomegranate and fresh lime juice, with pomegranate jewels or a lime curl twist.

Loews Ventana Canyon in Tucson is serving up a Love Me Sweet, Love Me Hot cocktail, with jalapeno-infused simple syrup, fresh berries, lime juice and Hornitos Repasado tequila.

Keep things sophisticated in the heart of Manhattan at Loews Regency Hotel New York with a Bubbly Passion fashioned from passion fruit puree, schnapps and Astoria Prosecco.

Loews Coronado Bay in San Diego has the Light My Fire cocktail with Absolut Peppar, chocolate liqueur, Bitter Truth chocolate bitters, and a crimson-colored hot chili garnish to stir things up.

The Get a Room package is priced from $134/double occupancy per night, with spicy bites and two bubbly cocktails included. Available through February 29, 2012.

For more information or to arrange your stay, call 1-800-23-LOEWS or visit
www.loewshotels.com

*Offer valid through 2/29/2012; subject to availability. Minimum one night stay. Not applicable to Loews Hotels at Universal Orlando (Hard Rock Hotel at Universal Orlando®, Loews Portofino Bay Hotel at Universal Orlando®, Loews Royal Pacific Resort at Universal Orlando®). Offer not applicable to groups, negotiated or third-party rates. Not combinable with any other offers. Not applicable to existing reservations. YouFirst benefits apply.

About Loews Hotels

Headquartered in New York City, Loews Hotels owns and/or operates 18 hotels and resorts in the U.S. and Canada, including its newest, the 414-room Loews Atlanta Hotel that opened April 1, 2010. Located in major city centers and resort destinations from coast to coast, the Loews portfolio features one-of-a-kind properties that go beyond Four Diamond standards to delight guests with a supremely comfortable, uniquely local and vibrant travel experience. Loews boasts some of the industry’s most innovative and successful travel programs, including Loews Loves Kids for families and Loews Loves Pets for discerning animals on the road. For reservations or more information on Loews Hotels, call
1-800-23-LOEWS or check www.loewshotels.com.

Follow Loews Hotels on Twitter: www.twitter.com/loews_hotels   Like Loews Hotels on Facebook: www.facebook.com/LoewsHotels  Watch Loews Hotels on YouTube: www.youtube.com/LoewsHotels

Stratos Jets asks Stefan Sears, a top industry professional, to head New York operation.
ORLANDO, FL– In support of its expansion efforts, Stratos Jet Charters, Inc., a worldwide air charter agency headquartered in Orlando, Fla., has opened a new office in Farmingdale, New York. Stratos Jets is now able to offer a higher level of personalized charter service in and out of New York.

Since its inception, Stratos Jets has experienced steady growth, year over year. In 2011, Stratos Jets moved to a larger office near the Orlando Executive Airport (ORL),which has allowed for the expansion of Stratos Jets’ support staff. In 2012, Stratos Jets now turns its attention to enhancing its New York jet charter service, which is one of its most requested charter services.

According to Joel Thomas, President and founder of Stratos Jets, many of the company’s clients either live or work in New York City. He says that these individuals are frequently burdened with the challenges of traveling in the densely-populated area of New York.

Thomas says that Stratos Jets felt that it had a responsibility to its New York clients to personalize its service.

“At Stratos Jets, we seek to provide an efficient and reliable charter service that meets the demands of even the busiest New York executive,” Thomas explained. “That’s why we are pleased to announce that we have opened a new office in Farmingdale, New York.

Stratos Jets has asked Mr. Stefan Sears, a top industry professional, to head its New York-based operation. Mr. Sears brings many years of industry experience as well as his passion and talent for private aviation to the dynamic team at Stratos Jets. Mr. Sears is now responsible for handling the individual needs of Stratos Jet’s New York-based clients, as well as overseeing the expansion of the new office.

According to Thomas, Mr. Sears, who is a resident of New York, will add value to Stratos Jets’ one-way and round-trip charter service to New York.

“As a resident of New York, Mr. Sears is very cognizant of the greater Manhattan area, its airports, and most importantly, the location of every aircraft available for private jet charter,” Thomas said. “As a result, he can rapidly respond to any New York charter flight request, and has the ability to arrange a charter flight with as little as four hours notice. His deep industry knowledge and expertise is an extremely valuable asset to our clients, especially in a situation where a charter aircraft is needed for an immediate or last-minute departure.”

Mr. Sears has also established personal relationships with several aircraft operators in the New York area, which allows him to ensure Stratos Jets’ goals of best-available pricing and quality assurance for New York air charter flights.

His centralized location in Farmingdale will also allow him to meet one-on-one with Stratos Jets’ New York-based clients in order to gain a better understanding of their individual needs and preferences.

“Opening a new office in Farmingdale will allow Stratos Jets to offer a higher level of personalized service for charter flights to and from New York,” Thomas said.

“In our ongoing effort to provide the most personalized air charter experience available, the addition of the Stratos Jets New York office means that both visitors and residents of the Big Apple can enjoy Stratos Jets’ industry-leading services and safety standards.”

With Mr. Sears’ extensive experience as a top air charter professional, Stratos Jets is better positioned to offer the same high level of personal service for our New York that is frequently enjoyed by those in the Southeast. Thomas says that he is thrilled to offer these extended services to his clients and he welcomes Mrs. Sears to the team.

“We constantly strive to enhance our business and client relations in all areas to ensure that our clients receive the best air charter experience available,” Thomas said. “Hopefully, the New York office will allow us to exceed our clients’ highest expectations for quality air charter service to and from the New York metro area.”

Stratos Jet Charters provides air charter service for US-based businesses and individuals. They believe that their success has come from the relationships they have built through good experiences, not long-term contracts. It is the goal of their company to provide you with the exceptional service and attention to detail that earns the confidence of your repeat business.

They provide air charter service that fits your schedule and can offer countless options to serve your needs. If you currently have an air charter service provider, please allow Stratos Jet Charters the opportunity to provide you with a competitive bid. They are sure that they can provide a level of service and convenience that will earn your repeat business.

Website: http://www.stratosjets.com