Category: TravelScene
Posted by: Editor
If your focus falls on beautiful Scotland this autumn then you're in luck because A - the BritRail Freedom of Scotland TravelPass is the perfect companion to explore Scotland to its fullest, from Edinburgh, to Glasgow, to Aberdeen, to Stirling, to the Highlands and beyond, and B - if you purchase your pass between August 17th and September 30th you get an extra day of travel - absolutely free!
The BritRail Free Day limited time offer will extend your BritRail Freedom of Scotland TravelPass by an additional day of rail travel, valid in Standard Class Adult and Child fares, for either 4 days within 8 days or 8 days within 15 days, plus one of course! These flexible travel days offer great value, as BritRail pass-holders can take multiple journeys on the same day, hopping on and off trains, hassle-free.
The BritRail Free Day limited time offer will extend your BritRail Freedom of Scotland TravelPass by an additional day of rail travel, valid in Standard Class Adult and Child fares, for either 4 days within 8 days or 8 days within 15 days, plus one of course! These flexible travel days offer great value, as BritRail pass-holders can take multiple journeys on the same day, hopping on and off trains, hassle-free.
Category: TravelScene
Posted by: Editor
British Columbia -- Bedazzled retreat. Wellness hotel. Bliss. However you choose to describe it, the new Sparkling Hill Resort in BC’s North Okanagan is sure to be many things to many people. With 152 crystal-appointed rooms, spectacular views, stellar menus and a dedicated crew of physicians, physiotherapists and spa practitioners, the newly-opened resort showcases both traditional and not-so-traditional approaches to wellness.
While you’ll most certainly find reflexology, aromatherapy, soothing Fango mud wraps and therapeutic massages on the menu, it’s the European touches that promise to set the resort apart. (That, along with eye-catching Swarovski crystal elements throughout, including a custom-designed Kohler tub for two in each guest room, complete with a “starry sky” overhead.) In all, 40,000 square feet of space is dedicated to mind and body stimulation: European therapies include a trio of therapeutic pools, steams and saunas, plus massages, facials and a cold sauna designed for cryotherapy.
Cryo what? Glad you asked. This favoured European treatment involves three minutes in the Cold Sauna, set at a bone-chilling -110°C. (Before entering the main chamber, guests enter two pre-rooms, set at -15°C and -60°C respectively.) Sure to bring on the brrr, this dry cold experience stimulates and energizes the nervous and circulatory systems, triggering, interestingly, a sustained warmth throughout the body for up to six hours. Forget conventional. Head to where it sparkles. Follow this link . . . .
While you’ll most certainly find reflexology, aromatherapy, soothing Fango mud wraps and therapeutic massages on the menu, it’s the European touches that promise to set the resort apart. (That, along with eye-catching Swarovski crystal elements throughout, including a custom-designed Kohler tub for two in each guest room, complete with a “starry sky” overhead.) In all, 40,000 square feet of space is dedicated to mind and body stimulation: European therapies include a trio of therapeutic pools, steams and saunas, plus massages, facials and a cold sauna designed for cryotherapy.
Cryo what? Glad you asked. This favoured European treatment involves three minutes in the Cold Sauna, set at a bone-chilling -110°C. (Before entering the main chamber, guests enter two pre-rooms, set at -15°C and -60°C respectively.) Sure to bring on the brrr, this dry cold experience stimulates and energizes the nervous and circulatory systems, triggering, interestingly, a sustained warmth throughout the body for up to six hours. Forget conventional. Head to where it sparkles. Follow this link . . . .
Category: TravelScene
Posted by: Editor
Vonnas in RhoneAlpes, France -- This chef unique of his kind, who has had 3 Michelin stars for thirty years, never stops improving. His Village Gourmand in the heart of Vonnas is a true model with its half-timbered bressane architecture. And the Mosaïc Spa received the Spa Trophy in 2009 which rewards the most beautiful Spa in the world of the Relais Chateaux chain, from among one hundred and forty six other spas situated in over twenty eight countries!
Georges Blanc never does things by half and he always has some project under way. He had only just finished the Mosaïc Spa, when he had a new semi-natural swimming pool built, outside the nearby park. It all began with the grandmother Elisa who used to serve chicken with cream, in her village inn. In 1968, he succeeded his mother and, in1981, hung up the third Michelin star to the family legend. The Blanc family chefs have been starred for eighty years!
Category: TravelScene
Posted by: Editor
Vienna, Austria -- Option available with all Economy tickets from 1 June 2010 From 1 June 2010 onwards, passengers travelling with Austrian Airlines will have the option to pay for Lounge access before their departure in Vienna – on an Economy Class ticket. This means they will be able to benefit from all the services of the Austrian Business Lounge Plaza or Pier Ost in Vienna. Anyone wishing to get in the mood for their flight in the comfortable quiet areas with their view out onto the apron can buy access at the Lounge Reception on the day of their flight.
For just 35 euros per lounge user, we offer an extensive range of meals and drinks from DO&CO, free W-LAN connection, computer workspaces with internet access, national and international newspapers and magazines, and television with international programming.
For passengers of Austrian Airlines who transfer in Vienna and have time to spend until their next flight departs, this offer is especially attractive. They can spend the time in an agreeable ambience and enjoy the wide-ranging services of the Austrian Business Lounge. redlounge is the first innovative add-on service from Austrian Airlines. We shall be introducing even more new services in the course of the coming year.
For just 35 euros per lounge user, we offer an extensive range of meals and drinks from DO&CO, free W-LAN connection, computer workspaces with internet access, national and international newspapers and magazines, and television with international programming.
For passengers of Austrian Airlines who transfer in Vienna and have time to spend until their next flight departs, this offer is especially attractive. They can spend the time in an agreeable ambience and enjoy the wide-ranging services of the Austrian Business Lounge. redlounge is the first innovative add-on service from Austrian Airlines. We shall be introducing even more new services in the course of the coming year.
Category: TravelScene
Posted by: Editor
London, England -- All Aboard for Adventure! The train now departing is the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express – en route to Dresden. This magnificent, culture-rich destination joins Prague, Krakow, Budapest and other great central European cities on new itineraries for 2010. This year sees the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express relive its 1920s heyday, extending its network of destinations within regions once cut off from the west. With the fall of the Iron Curtain, all are bursting afresh with verve, culture and style.
Agatha Christie and Assassins • In its most glorious era - the roaring twenties - the Orient-Express carried an intoxicating brew of passengers. Kings and queens, emperors and presidents, writers and artists, brigadiers and spies, mistresses and assassins – they were all aboard, clinking crystal in the dining car, applauding the gypsy bands that played under the Lalique chandeliers, and sashaying down the swaying corridors late at night in silken dressing gowns.
To and Fro in Central Europe • During this golden era, the appetite for luxury trains spawned many Orient-Express routes in central Europe: the trains became arteries of style, bringing sophisticated and wealthy customers to the new luxury hotels that sprang up to receive them. But then came World War II, swiftly followed by communism. The train was routed and re-routed to become a pale shadow of its former self. Meanwhile the cities it had touched were variously bombed, concreted, or fell into disrepair.
Now the pendulum is swinging back in style. For the last couple of decades the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express has run on its core route between London, Paris and Venice, with a once-yearly odyssey down memory lane all the way to Istanbul. But today, with an additional set of new itineraries, the train is returning to the once-familiar areas of central Europe, rediscovering the former stamping ground of its most glorious years.
Itineraries include cities such as Prague, Krakow, Budapest and now - new for 2010 - Dresden, some of which have been miraculously preserved, and some of which have had to be painstakingly rebuilt – rather like the VSOE itself. Further information on-line is available by following this link . . .
Agatha Christie and Assassins • In its most glorious era - the roaring twenties - the Orient-Express carried an intoxicating brew of passengers. Kings and queens, emperors and presidents, writers and artists, brigadiers and spies, mistresses and assassins – they were all aboard, clinking crystal in the dining car, applauding the gypsy bands that played under the Lalique chandeliers, and sashaying down the swaying corridors late at night in silken dressing gowns.
To and Fro in Central Europe • During this golden era, the appetite for luxury trains spawned many Orient-Express routes in central Europe: the trains became arteries of style, bringing sophisticated and wealthy customers to the new luxury hotels that sprang up to receive them. But then came World War II, swiftly followed by communism. The train was routed and re-routed to become a pale shadow of its former self. Meanwhile the cities it had touched were variously bombed, concreted, or fell into disrepair.
Now the pendulum is swinging back in style. For the last couple of decades the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express has run on its core route between London, Paris and Venice, with a once-yearly odyssey down memory lane all the way to Istanbul. But today, with an additional set of new itineraries, the train is returning to the once-familiar areas of central Europe, rediscovering the former stamping ground of its most glorious years.
Itineraries include cities such as Prague, Krakow, Budapest and now - new for 2010 - Dresden, some of which have been miraculously preserved, and some of which have had to be painstakingly rebuilt – rather like the VSOE itself. Further information on-line is available by following this link . . .
Category: TravelScene
Posted by: Editor
New York, NY - Swiss International Air Lines was honored for its First Class Cabin at the 5th annual Travel + Leisure Design Awards held in San Francisco on February 23. A six-member jury awarded SWISS "Best Transportation" distinction for its SWISS First Class Cabin design.
"We’re delighted to receive this award, which is a tribute to SWISS's effort in constantly improving our customer's experience," said Markus Binkert, responsible for Product & Services at SWISS. "In developing our new First Class cabin product, we aim to set new benchmarks in premium travel, and we’re extremely pleased that our investments in such comfort and innovations have been so well received. We work day in, day out to offer our customers the best possible quality, as it is of the utmost importance to us that all our passengers are made to feel at home in a comfortable, relaxing and personalized environment."
In addition to its award-winning design by Priestmangoode, the new SWISS First Class features numerous new innovations. These include an individually adjustable divider wall and a guest seat. A further key innovation is the pneumatic air cushion developed in collaboration with Swiss manufacturer Lantal, which is provided at every seat and which can be individually adjusted to the firmness or softness desired. The new First Class seat can also be transformed at the touch of a button into a lie-flat bed that is over two metres long. The new SWISS First Class cabin is being gradually installed throughout the SWISS A330-300 long-haul fleet in a program that began in April 2009. For more info follow this link . . .
"We’re delighted to receive this award, which is a tribute to SWISS's effort in constantly improving our customer's experience," said Markus Binkert, responsible for Product & Services at SWISS. "In developing our new First Class cabin product, we aim to set new benchmarks in premium travel, and we’re extremely pleased that our investments in such comfort and innovations have been so well received. We work day in, day out to offer our customers the best possible quality, as it is of the utmost importance to us that all our passengers are made to feel at home in a comfortable, relaxing and personalized environment."
In addition to its award-winning design by Priestmangoode, the new SWISS First Class features numerous new innovations. These include an individually adjustable divider wall and a guest seat. A further key innovation is the pneumatic air cushion developed in collaboration with Swiss manufacturer Lantal, which is provided at every seat and which can be individually adjusted to the firmness or softness desired. The new First Class seat can also be transformed at the touch of a button into a lie-flat bed that is over two metres long. The new SWISS First Class cabin is being gradually installed throughout the SWISS A330-300 long-haul fleet in a program that began in April 2009. For more info follow this link . . .
27/02: Paris Hotels Get Fifth Star
Category: TravelScene
Posted by: Editor
Paris, France -- The Parisian hotel industry on cloud nine. The recent reform of the hotel industry is a challenge to Paris’s finest hotels seeking to be awarded a fifth star. A look at the new legislation and its requirements, and a round-up of the new five-star establishments.
The recent bill for modernizing French hotels (the previous classification dates back to 1986) has begun to reform the Paris hotel industry. Of note are two major changes: on the one hand there is the disappearance of the zero-rated category, and on the other, the most important advance, a fifth star makes its appearance, to symbolize the highest qualification. This new category is a veritable gauge of appreciation and comparison, notably for foreign clientele. The five-star rating is a widely-used standard abroad; it facilitates comparison between equivalent hotels throughout the world and, from now on, enables the French hotel industry to enhance the image of upscale facilities that have given it a world-wide reputation. A fifth star underlines the ever-more exacting demands in terms of facilities, client services, accessibility and sustained development.
What then is new in five-star hotels? First of all, the client must have a spacious bedroom, at least 24 m2 for a double room. Also new, with more freedom being given to the layout of bedrooms, free reign can now be given to new decor concepts. On the comfort side, rooms are equipped with Internet, television with access to thematic and foreign channels, a double bed and other amenities to satisfy the demands of clients (safe-deposit box, minibar, a computer, a printer, telephone in bathrooms, etc.). What’s more, the personnel, available 24 hours a day, must speak at least two foreign languages and offer a personalized welcome. Finally, the staff is aware of sustainable development issues and how to welcome disabled people.
The recent bill for modernizing French hotels (the previous classification dates back to 1986) has begun to reform the Paris hotel industry. Of note are two major changes: on the one hand there is the disappearance of the zero-rated category, and on the other, the most important advance, a fifth star makes its appearance, to symbolize the highest qualification. This new category is a veritable gauge of appreciation and comparison, notably for foreign clientele. The five-star rating is a widely-used standard abroad; it facilitates comparison between equivalent hotels throughout the world and, from now on, enables the French hotel industry to enhance the image of upscale facilities that have given it a world-wide reputation. A fifth star underlines the ever-more exacting demands in terms of facilities, client services, accessibility and sustained development.
What then is new in five-star hotels? First of all, the client must have a spacious bedroom, at least 24 m2 for a double room. Also new, with more freedom being given to the layout of bedrooms, free reign can now be given to new decor concepts. On the comfort side, rooms are equipped with Internet, television with access to thematic and foreign channels, a double bed and other amenities to satisfy the demands of clients (safe-deposit box, minibar, a computer, a printer, telephone in bathrooms, etc.). What’s more, the personnel, available 24 hours a day, must speak at least two foreign languages and offer a personalized welcome. Finally, the staff is aware of sustainable development issues and how to welcome disabled people.
Category: TravelScene
Posted by: Editor
Small ships, deep fjords, classic cruising make family-owned line editor’s choice for 2010
Minneapolis, Minn -- National Geographic Traveler recently rated the Norwegian Fjords as the best destination in the world, and one of the best ways to view the fjords is aboard one of Fred. Olsen Cruise Line’s smaller ships. In 2010 Fred. Olsen offers 19 different itineraries that take travelers through the most breathtaking of Norway’s fjords. Itineraries range from 7 to fifteen nights and are sometimes paired with calls to top-of-the-world North Cape and Spitsbergen, realm of the polar bears.
The line’s sleek and “human-scale” vessels, with capacities ranging from 807 to 1,350 passengers, can slip deep into narrow passages where the scenery is often most spectacular.
The 856-passenger Boudicca, for instance, offers an 8-night Norway departure from Liverpool (UK) on May 13, 2010, that delves into the fjords of western Norway and features a voyage through the Sognefjord, the world’s second longest fjord that branches into the Naeroyfjord, a World Heritage Site; it also leads to Flaam, famous for the railway that winds dramatically into and out of rugged mountain tunnels. On this cruise emerald green water spills from various waterfalls down the towering sides of each fjord, adding motion to the otherwise sturdy cliff faces all around. In passenger evaluations the words “stunning” and “awesome” are commonly used to describe their journey.
Minneapolis, Minn -- National Geographic Traveler recently rated the Norwegian Fjords as the best destination in the world, and one of the best ways to view the fjords is aboard one of Fred. Olsen Cruise Line’s smaller ships. In 2010 Fred. Olsen offers 19 different itineraries that take travelers through the most breathtaking of Norway’s fjords. Itineraries range from 7 to fifteen nights and are sometimes paired with calls to top-of-the-world North Cape and Spitsbergen, realm of the polar bears.
The line’s sleek and “human-scale” vessels, with capacities ranging from 807 to 1,350 passengers, can slip deep into narrow passages where the scenery is often most spectacular.
The 856-passenger Boudicca, for instance, offers an 8-night Norway departure from Liverpool (UK) on May 13, 2010, that delves into the fjords of western Norway and features a voyage through the Sognefjord, the world’s second longest fjord that branches into the Naeroyfjord, a World Heritage Site; it also leads to Flaam, famous for the railway that winds dramatically into and out of rugged mountain tunnels. On this cruise emerald green water spills from various waterfalls down the towering sides of each fjord, adding motion to the otherwise sturdy cliff faces all around. In passenger evaluations the words “stunning” and “awesome” are commonly used to describe their journey.
Category: TravelScene
Posted by: Editor
Vienna, Austria -- Created originally for the Prince of Württemberg this palatial residence has overlooked the historic Ring Boulevard of Old Vienna since 1863. Later transformed into a hotel to accommodate visitors to the World’s Fair of 1873 the Imperial Hotel remains a stunning example of Viennese life in the 19th Century . It’s princely appointments include authentic antiques, pristine marble, hand carved statuary, and spectacular crystal chandeliers. Hotel accommodations are fashionable and offer the highest degree of traditional comfort and modern conveniences. The Imperial Restaurant and Café Imperial offer patrons a tempting taste of Viennese cuisine and hospitality. This is a very welcoming hotel that offers an exceptional brand of service to its guests and extends those "little touches" that make your visit even more enjoyable. In our opinion, the Hotel Imperial is uniquely Vienna’s finest address for the visitor .
Hotel Imperial Vienna, offer 76 Rooms & 62 Suites
Category: TravelScene
Posted by: Editor
New York, NY –- ATOUT FRANCE, the France Tourism Development Agency has released the third edition of its luxury guide to France, FranceGuide Prestige. The 70-page glossy magazine, aimed at the affluent American traveler, premiered at the joint ATOUT FRANCE/Germany National Tourist Office travel agent dinner at Aureole restaurant at the Mandalay Bay hotel in Las Vegas, during the Luxury Travel Expo.
FranceGuide Prestige’s eight sections highlight the latest in hotels, art, culture, gastronomy, design, fashion, and shopping. Aimed at elite travelers who are concerned with sustainability and environmental responsibility, FranceGuide Prestige offers highly unique experiences that provide luxury without compromising personal values. In the new edition, restaurant critic Alexander Lobrano details chefs in Paris and beyond specializing in "Green Cuisine"—a.k.a. food based on local, organic ingredients. Anicka Quin hunts out the best villas to rent in Provence, Corsica, and Guadalupe in "Living a la villa," while travel editor Lisa Monoforton explores Coco Chanel’s Deauville in "Deauville beau monde." Fashionista Patricia Gajo introduces readers to the fascinating world of customized fragrances (a French specialty) and Julien Bisson takes us on a gallery-hopping tour of Paris. And let’s not forget eco-travel on the beautiful island of Martinique—all this, and much more, is included in the latest edition of FranceGuide Prestige.
FranceGuide Prestige’s eight sections highlight the latest in hotels, art, culture, gastronomy, design, fashion, and shopping. Aimed at elite travelers who are concerned with sustainability and environmental responsibility, FranceGuide Prestige offers highly unique experiences that provide luxury without compromising personal values. In the new edition, restaurant critic Alexander Lobrano details chefs in Paris and beyond specializing in "Green Cuisine"—a.k.a. food based on local, organic ingredients. Anicka Quin hunts out the best villas to rent in Provence, Corsica, and Guadalupe in "Living a la villa," while travel editor Lisa Monoforton explores Coco Chanel’s Deauville in "Deauville beau monde." Fashionista Patricia Gajo introduces readers to the fascinating world of customized fragrances (a French specialty) and Julien Bisson takes us on a gallery-hopping tour of Paris. And let’s not forget eco-travel on the beautiful island of Martinique—all this, and much more, is included in the latest edition of FranceGuide Prestige.
