7 Steps to Take for Selling Air Miles

There are plenty of people out there who have a lot of air miles they think it would be legitimate to sell any way they like, but the truth is that this process is more complicated than they think and it takes some steps in order to understand how to do it properly. Many airlines disallow exchanging airline miles for money in order for them to maintain regulation over ticket prices. But regardless of what they are trying to do, there are still ways through which selling air miles becomes possible. Below there are the steps you will have to take for this.



1. The first thing you'd have to do is have your airline miles transferred to your family and friends with a token amount of cash received. It's recommended you consider this step if you're close to the expiration dates and would like to get something in return for all of those miles you acquired in time without gouging people that are close to you.

2. Before you decide to put your air miles on sale, it's wise that you will check the limitations set by credit card companies and airlines. In some cases you will see that some airlines can make selling air miles quite a difficult process.

3. You can also have your air miles exchanged with someone else who has points of higher value than yours. The points that haven't been converted can still be used to buy certain high valued items, for office supplies and for every day coffee cups coffee.

4. You can also consider having an account registered with an internet broker which makes selling air miles far easier and faster. Keep in mind that depending on the services you'll decide to use, you can get lower return on true value.

5. The selling of your air miles should be planned well before they will expire if you don't want your rewards to be affected. To benefit from the best value you should block the miles used for business trips and then have the rest sold.

6. Don't sell your air miles just yet. Instead, wait until you reach a level that business travelers will find enticing and only then make the move.

7. There are some cases in which you will just not be able to donate your miles and if this is the case, then just donate your miles to charity in order to get a tax deduction. The value will be written on your income tax return.

It seems that selling air miles is not that hard for those who will follow the steps outlined above. Doing so will allow them to easily and successfully sell them to a great buyer.

Tips and Warnings

1. Before you'll complete the transaction you have to make sure that you'll convince the buyer to buy your air miles to the price you have in mind. It can be hard and take some time, but if you stand your ground you can really get a good deal.

2. To help with clearing ambiguities you should make a contract that details the steps required for redeeming air miles and exchanging points between you and your buyer. Even if it's not legally binding, it's still a standard setter for the rest of the transaction.

Alaska Airlines Ramp Service and Stores Agents Ratify Six-Year Contract

Alaska Airlines announced today that the carrier's 587 ramp service and stores agents have ratified a new six-year contract. The agreement was approved by 91 percent of the members of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers who voted.

"I'm delighted that our ramp service and stores workers overwhelmingly approved a contract that reflects their valuable contribution to Alaska Airlines and provides them with long-term security," said Shane Tackett, the carrier's vice president of labor relations. "It's also notable that ratification occurred before the July 19 amendable date of the current contract, thanks to the professionalism of negotiators for the union and Alaska who worked together to develop an agreement that's fair for everyone."

The new contract, which becomes amendable in July 2018, includes wage increases of 10 percent over the life of the agreement, two long-term contract payments, and job security and improved productivity provisions.

Alaska Airlines and Horizon Air, subsidiaries of Alaska Air Group (NYSE: ALK), together serve more than 90 cities through an expansive network in Alaska, the Lower 48, Hawaii, Canada and Mexico. Alaska Airlines has ranked "Highest in Customer Satisfaction Among Traditional Network Carriers" in the J.D. Power and Associates North America Airline Satisfaction Study(SM) for five consecutive years from 2008 to 2012. For reservations, visit www.alaskaair.com.

Airlines for America (A4A) Calls for National Airline Policy to Boost Global Competitiveness

 Airlines for America (A4A), the industry trade organization for the leading U.S. airlines, today called on the Senate to support a National Airline Policy in order to keep U.S. airlines competitive with foreign carriers, achieve sustained profitability and add highly skilled, technical jobs in the United States.


"Airlines enable their local businesses to export goods, connect their residents to the world for business and leisure travel – and, importantly, create good-paying jobs," A4A President and CEO Nicholas E. Calio said. "We face the very real risk of U.S. airlines increasingly shifting to feeding foreign airlines at our gateways, rather than expanding their flying of lucrative international routes."

Calio detailed how passenger and cargo airlines provide a tremendous value for American businesses and consumers, and enable the U.S. economy. In 2011, the value of U.S. exports by air was 117 times the value of exports transported by sea. Commercial aviation has grown to become one of the most important drivers of U.S. gross domestic product (GDP) and today U.S. airlines carry about 2 million passengers and 50,000 tons of cargo daily on approximately 28,000 flights.

However, for years U.S. airlines have operated under a tax, regulatory and infrastructure environment that has made it increasingly difficult to make be sustainably profitable and compete globally. If the airline industry continues to lose ground to foreign competitors, it will take a toll on the larger economy, Calio said. U.S. airlines already have reduced capacity to some international markets – the most profitable part of the business – and to a great degree, the part that subsidizes many domestic routes, particularly service to the smaller communities.

In order to stay competitive and drive further economic growth, A4A outlined the need for a National Airline Policy, which would have five core elements:

• Address the rising tax burden
• Reduce the industry's regulatory burden
• Expedite implementation of a satellite-based air traffic management system
• Expand access to global markets
• Enable the U.S. airline industry to attract investment

White Lodging to manage the Hilton Garden Inn Boca Raton in Boca Raton, FL

White Lodging Services is pleased to announce it has taken over the management contract for the Hilton Garden Inn Boca Raton.  The hotel is the 10th management contract in Florida and more than 30 hotels managed by White Lodging owned by Apple REIT.

White Lodging bring its culture to this hotel under the leadership of its new general manager Don McNew, who previously was the general manager at the Courtyard Louisville Northeast.       

The Hilton Garden Inn Boca Raton is in a key location between Palm Beach and Fort Lauderdale, just minutes from Boca Raton and Delray Beaches, Atlantic Avenue and the best golf courses in the South Florida area.

The hotel is about 35 minutes from Fort Lauderdale/Hollywood International Airport, 28 minutes from Palm Beach International Airport and an hour from Miami Dade International Airport.
Leisure travelers will enjoy that the hotel is within minutes of the best beaches, shopping, golf and tennis in South Florida. They can enjoy fantastic shopping and dining opportunities in Boca Raton and along Atlantic Avenue in Delray Beach, or treat the kids to a fun day at Butterfly World or spend the day at Miami Seaquarium.

The hotel provides complimentary shuttle service within a five-mile radius upon request, a 24-hour Business Center, a fitness center and a heated outdoor pool. Guests may dine at the Great American Grill®, enjoy evening room service or grab a packaged or microwaveable snack from the Pavilion Pantry®. The hotel offers 2,400 sq. ft. of meeting space and an executive boardroom for up to 12 people. Guests can enjoy all the comforts of home including a refrigerator, microwave, coffee maker, and a 37-inch HD television with on-demand videos and games and complimentary HBO.

Global Travel Publishers Announces the 8th Edition of Founder Mark Nolting's Bestselling Africa's Top Wildlife Countries

Global Travel Publishers announces the launch of Mark Nolting's 8th edition of Africa's Top Wildlife Countries. Available in July through Amazon, Barnes & Noble and others, the new edition of the book will explore and chronicle the essentials of embarking on safari in Africa. The compendium will feature the most up-to-date information and maps of the continent and wildlife with the same depth and comprehensiveness of past books in the series. www.globaltravelpublishers.com
 
Africa's Top Wildlife Countries 8th edition will feature detailed information including how to choose a safari, as well as a guide for seeing wildlife in specific areas. There are seven charts, covering everything from expected temperatures to best wildlife viewing destinations. With detailed maps and photographs of animals and lodges, readers will be able to gain thorough knowledge of Africa.

As a consummate explorer and researcher, Mark Nolting's expertise is the result of over 25 years of adventuring and study. In addition to the Africa's Top Wildlife Countries series, Mark previously authored the comprehensive African Safari Journal. Mark joined his wife, Alison Nolting, 19 years ago to head the Africa Adventure Company. Born and raised in Zimbabwe, Alison managed safari camps before joining Mark to lead their team of experienced Africa consultants.

Mark Nolting is also the founder of the award-winning Africa Adventure Company, which will celebrate its 26th anniversary as a top Africa specialist this year. Africa Adventure Company's first-hand knowledge of Africa and wildlife permits them to offer highly personalized trip planning and advice. Well-known for delivering expert safari guidance, Africa Adventure Company presents the 8th edition of Africa's Top Wildlife Countries to share with all Mark Nolting's vast knowledge and enthusiasm for African wildlife. 

Palm Desert Resort Celebrates Opening of New Restaurant and Lounge

A Palm Desert resort famous for its restaurant and lounge offerings has upped the ante yet again this summer. JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort & Spa announces the opening of Rockwood Grill, a sophisticated all-day dining venue featuring an outdoor terrace with fire pits and a la carte seating (opening July 2012); and Blue Star Lounge, a new bar adjacent to Rockwood Grill offering indoor and outdoor seating. Popular among local residents and visitors alike, the restaurants at JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort & Spa continue to offer some of the finest dining in the Coachella Valley.

Located in the former LakeView restaurant space, Rockwood Grill and Blue Star Lounge are just two of the many exciting updates in celebration of the resort’s 25th “silver” anniversary. These extensive improvements include 884 rejuvenated guestrooms and suites, the addition of new retail outlets including Sunnyland Chocolate Factory, Desert Shades, and Wallet World, a new dining option Fisherman’s Landing, and upgrades to the resort’s acclaimed Palm Course, a Ted Robinson, Jr. designed golf course. Also, this fall, the resort will reopen the Valley Golf Course after an extensive renovation.

Rockwood Grill features an upscale-casual menu of diverse American classics made from scratch daily with locally-sourced ingredients, from Anaheim Peppers brought to Anaheim, CA in 1900 by Emilio Ortega, to artisan cheese Di Stefano Burrata, made by the Bruno Family in Baldwin Park, CA, and first created in the Apulia Region of Italy in the 1920’s. The dishes are expertly prepared and served in an atmosphere of warmth, comfort and sophistication. The construction to convert the former restaurant into Rockwood included a complete overhaul of the main dining room and a dramatic illuminated bar activating the double height atrium. The abundance of California’s farms and local purveyors, such as Suzie’s Farms, a USDA certified organic farm located on 70 acres 13 miles south of San Diego and growing over 100 different crops per year, serve as the springboard for the hearty, healthful menu items offered at the new Palm Desert restaurant, including:

•The Valley Sampler which features bacon wrapped dates, smoked eggplant dip, flat bread, la quercia salumi and point reyes toma cheese;

•Brandt Farms Ribeye or a Pork Chop straight from the grill;

•Signature hand stretched pizzas such as the Proscuitto option, made with Coachella Valley Dates and fresh mozzarella, or the Berkshire Pork Belly option, with shitake mushrooms, cilantro and fresh mozzarella;

•The refreshing Market Salad made with Suzie’s organic farm greens, shaved apple, fennel, radish, candied pecans and dressed with tangerine pomegranate vinaigrette;

•Cinnamon Beignets with a Coachella Valley Date Milkshake to top it all off.

Blue Star Lounge has been designed with a stunning 80+ seat indoor and outdoor terrace with fire pits and a la carte seating, creating a truly magical al fresco experience for guests. The dramatic back bar at Blue Star Lounge takes advantage of the double height atrium to create an illuminated beacon that attracts guests throughout the resort. A serpentine communal table anchors one end of the bar as guests and servers spill out onto the newly renovated garden terrace.

The lounge features a memorable selection of signature margaritas, local microbrews and hand crafted farm-to-glass cocktails, including:

•     Rockwood Martini – Ketel One vodka, peach puree & peach champagne float;
•     Blue Star Martini – Sky Citrus vodka, Blue Curacao, lime juice, simple syrup and club soda;
•     Misdemeanor – Tres Agaves silver tequila, green chartreuse, agave syrup, lime juice, pineapple and a small slice of jalapeno;
•     Desert Sunrise – 1800 Silver tequila, orange juice, pomegranate juice, grenadine tequila (anejo) float;
•     Frozen Avocado Margarita – tequila, triple sec, fresh avocado, cilantro & fresh lime juice.

Diners can also experience a carefully chosen selection of more than 60 wines, featuring a variety of California specialties.

Rockwood Grill and Blue Star Lounge join a roster of more than seven quality restaurants and lounges for guests to choose from at JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort & Spa, including: Mikado Japanese Steakhouse, The Lobby Bar at Desert Springs, The Oasis Bar & Grill, The Spa Desert Springs Bistro, and vibrant Palm Desert Costas Nightclub, the desert’s exclusive nightclub open on Fridays and Saturdays. Also unveiled in June is Fisherman’s Landing Bar & Grill, brought by the crew of Fisherman’s Market & Grill, which was voted Best Seafood Restaurant each year for over a decade, to provide the highest quality seafood delivered fresh daily to guests.

The Palm Springs luxury resort offers gondola rides to and from many of its restaurants, including Rockwood Grill and Blue Star Lounge, via a vast system of Venetian-like waterways which run throughout the property’s lushly landscaped grounds.

Las Vegas Resort Hits Hole-In-One with Three New Golf Packages in Time for Charity Tournament

Three Premium Choice packages offered by the JW Marriott Las Vegas Resort & Spa will have guests shouting “fore” while putting, swinging and chipping away on an award-winning, championship golf course.

Golfers will find themselves challenged to the max with trying to choose from three Las Vegas golf vacations offered through Sept. 30 by the golf resort. Plus, vacationers who book reservations from now through Aug. 19 can take advantage of rates starting at $94.50 for deluxe accommodations, per player per night, and an extra bonus worth $25 of free play at the resort’s onsite Rampart Casino. Other perks include transportation to and from TPC Las Vegas, souvenir bag tags, 15 percent off purchases at the course’s golf shop and passes to the Aquae Sulis Spa at the Las Vegas resort.

Whether traveling alone on business or with a spouse or companion on a relaxing vacation, guests can choose from one of three golf deals including:

-the single golf escape, with rates starting from $129, which incorporates a round of golf for one player for every night booked with a spa pass.

-the double golf escape, with rates starting from $189, which incorporates a round of golf for two players for every night booked with two spa passes.

-the vacation package, with rates starting from $209, which incorporates a round of golf for two players for every night booked and two spa passes with a complimentary breakfast buffet for two.

Guests can enjoy 18 holes of golf on the par-71 TPC Las Vegas course with 7,081 yards of lush greens set against the stunning backdrop of Red Rock Canyon and National Park. The course is the only public PGA Tour facility in Las Vegas and sits minutes from the famous Las Vegas strip.

And on August 6, TPC Las Vegas and the JW Marriott Las Vegas Resort & Spa host the 8th Annual Golf Tournament benefiting Children's Miracle Network and Candlelighters Childhood Cancer Foundation of Nevada. The tournament features a silent auction, lunch, open bar, and gourmet awards banquet following golf and hosted at the luxurious resort. Registration for the event is at http://www.marriottjustforthekids.com.
To enjoy one of the Las Vegas golf vacations, guests should book accommodations using promotional code GOF. To book tee times, call the golf concierge at 877-869-8777, ext. 7774.

Key Largo Resort Offers Summer Package in Time for Local Festival

One of the latest Key Largo hotel deals lets guests get more mileage on their summer vacation.
The Suntastic Savings Deal at the Key Largo Bay Marriott Beach Resort includes everything guests need to see and experience all the fun things to do in Key Largo this summer. The hotel deal includes:

•     Overnight accommodations
•     $25 daily gas credit
•     Breakfast for two adults
•     Free parking

A perfect choice among Key Largo resorts, the Key Largo Bay Marriott Beach Resort provides the ideal setting from which to enjoy some of the more popular seasonal events, including the Key Largo Food & Wine Festival.

Just down the road from the Marriott Key Largo hotel, the Food & Wine Festival has become one of the most popular things to do in Key Largo over the years. Taking place July 27 through August 5, the Food & Wine Festival embraces the bounty of the local area and serves delicious seafood while also putting on cooking demonstrations, food and wine pairing classes, and wine tastings. One day at the festival will have guests coming back for seconds; with the $25 daily gas credit offered by Marriott’s Key Largo resort, guests can easily drive to the Key Largo Food & Wine Festival day after day.

Book the Suntastic Savings Deal at the Key Largo Bay Marriott Beach Resort and taste the bounty of summer at the Key Largo Food & Wine Festival.

This hotel deal in Key Largo is available seven days a week from now until September 30, 2012. To book this deal, use promotional code CSE online or call 1-800-228-9290. Restrictions may apply. For more information about this and other Key Largo hotel deals, visit http://www.marriott.com/MTHKL.

JW Marriott San Antonio Resort Gives Groups a Boost with Special Deal

Texas is all about doing things big, so it should come as no surprise that one San Antonio resort is looking to offer big savings for groups.

The JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort & Spa now features a new San Antonio meetings offer that is sure to please meeting planners and groups of all sizes. Groups can select from an extensive list of perks that offer everything from discounts to upgrades and exclusive amenities.

The more groups spend at this Texas Hill Country resort, the more they save, so groups are encouraged to go as big as Texas to enjoy the best savings.

For groups spending between $10,000 and $100,000 in total at this San Antonio golf resort, they can choose from four of the following perks:

•     10% off catered F&B
•     10% off in-house AV
•     50% off on one Internet line in a meeting room
•     Upgrade to one hot food item on a continental breakfast
•     Upgrade to a premium bar
•     2 night gift certificate for future stay
•     3% rebate to master
•     100,000 Marriott Reward Points

Groups that spend over $100,000 in total can select five of the following perks:

•     10% off catered F&B
•     10% off in-house AV
•     One complimentary Internet line in a meeting room
•     Upgrade to one hot food item on a continental breakfast
•     Upgrade to a premium bar
•     3 night gift certificate for future stay
•     4% rebate to master (max $15,000)
•     One complimentary round trip airport transfer
•     3 complimentary Suites during conference
•     100,000 Marriott Reward Points

To take advantage of this great offer from one of the leading San Antonio meeting and event venues, groups simply need to hold their meeting between August 1 and December 31, 2012. Contact a Marriott Sales Professional for more information.

Meetings at this San Antonio resort take place in elegant and flexible spaces. Able to accommodate groups of virtually any size, the San Antonio resort meeting spaces offer a total of 265,000 square feet. The largest groups can take advantage of the Grand Oaks Ballroom, featuring 40,500 square feet and able to seat 6,300 individuals.

Besides exceptional meeting spaces, amenities, and staff, this San Antonio resort also features comfortable guest rooms. Well-appointed and featuring a stylish décor that evokes the beauty of Texas, these Texas Hill Country resort accommodations offer a comfortable private space for work, relaxation and luxury.
Groups are encouraged to dream big and save even bigger with the new meeting deal at the JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort & Spa. For more information about meeting spaces or to book a meeting or event, visit http://www.marriott.com/SATJW

Sonoma Resort Unveils New Wine Bar & Coffee House in Newly Enhanced Lobby

A well-known Sonoma Resort in the heart of wine country has taken luxury to the next level. The Lodge at Sonoma Renaissance Resort & Spa is excited to announce the opening of Bean & Bottle – the new wine and coffee bar located inside the newly renovated lobby. Bean & Bottle fills a completely unexplored niche in the greater Sonoma dining scene and in the hotel, with grab and go picnic items, wine shopping and café style dining. Discover a truly unique experience created from the inspiration of Wine Country and see what awaits you just 45 miles outside of San Francisco. 

With the opening of Bean & Bottle, The Lodge at Sonoma completed significant renovations that include upgrades in the Raindance Spa and pool area, as well as a complete renovation of the lobby to create a living room experience that captures the natural beauty of the Sonoma Wine Country. The interior takes advantage of the lobby’s current features which are the high ceilings, glass doors and windows, beautiful stone fireplace, and slate floors. The three key areas of the room are the slick bar with the deli-case and Berkeley slicer; the retail glass and exhibition wine wall; and the beautiful stone fireplace. The colors and textures are modern and natural and the bar was extended to seat up to 18 guests.

Bean & Bottle Coffeehouse and Wine Bar + Two New Sommeliers
Bean & Bottle is a modern gathering area where guests can sit and enjoy a selection of featured items daily from 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. High quality coffee and espresso drinks by Illy Coffee will be served, along with breakfast items such as house-made pastries, including scones and a variety of croissants and bagels, fresh fruit, and local yogurt with house-made granola. For lunch, guests of this wine country hotel can indulge in an array of delicious charcuterie and local cheeses, rustic bread, aged salami from Zoe’s of Petaluma, and hot pressed Panini sandwiches. The dessert selections will include artisan chocolates, cookies, brownies, and seasonal tarts. Guests will have the option to prepare an insulated picnic basket for two with their choice of grab and go items from the marketplace.

Bean & Bottle will offer a selection of local wines, beers and spirits. Sommelier Christopher Sawyer will oversee the purchase of wines for both Carneros Bistro & Wine Bar and Bean & Bottle. Guests will have the option of wines by the glass or choose from a collection of retail wines for sale in the marketplace. All spirits are local and organic including TRU organic vodka and gin, Charbay vodka, rum and tequila, a selection of whiskey, including Hooker’s House bourbon, a Sonoma-style American bourbon that is straight bourbon whiskey finished in pinot noir barrels, and other selections of vodka, rum, gin, whiskey and brandy. Fever-Tree soda water, bitter lemon, tonic water, ginger ale, and lemonade will also be served.

Two new trained and knowledgeable sommeliers will be joining the Bean & Bottle team - Richard Farnocchia and Daniel Noreen. Farnocchia was born and raised in San Francisco and now lives in the heart of downtown Sonoma. He has been a home winemaker for over 22 years and is thrilled to bring his expertise to Bean & Bottle. Noreen grew up in Walnut Creek, CA and has spent the last 30 years in retail wine and beverage sales, first at the Cannery Wine Cellars in San Francisco, before leaving to open the Sonoma Wine Exchange in downtown Sonoma’s Plaza. Well respected in the industry Dan has helped judge at the Sonoma County Harvest Fair, West Coast Wine Competition, and Alameda Country Fair. They will be on-site to provide guests with wine recommendations, assist in scheduling winery tours or visits and selecting personalized cases of wine. They will also offer wine education, tastings and pairings.

For more information please visit http://www.marriott.com/SFOLS

Sonoma Luxury Hotel Celebrates Two Major Awards

Two cheers for one of the best Sonoma resorts in California—or rather, two awards!

The Lodge at Sonoma Renaissance Resort & Spa received high praise from Condé Nast Traveler and Wine Spectator. This beloved Sonoma Wine Country hotel has steadily impressed critics and guests alike with its scenic location, excellent accommodations and luxurious amenities. 2012 proved to be no different as the Renaissance property continues with its standard of consistency.

This top Sonoma spa resort received the title of Best Spa Resort in US by Condé Nast Traveler. This is the third year in a row that The Lodge at Sonoma Renaissance Resort & Spa has won this award. Readers of the popular travel magazine choose the recipient of this award, giving the award-winners the prestige of real enthusiasts of travel. The people have indeed spoken!

The Lodge at Sonoma Renaissance Resort & Spa offers more than just exceptional accommodations and a luxurious environment nestled in the heart of the Sonoma Wine Country. The resort is also known for its extensive wine list and delicious, locally sourced farm-to-table cuisine, served at the on-site Carneros Bistro & Wine Bar. Wine Spectator Magazine recognized the Sonoma restaurant’s impressive wine selection and gave the restaurant the coveted Award of Excellence. This prestigious title denotes only restaurants that offer a high-quality list of wine producers.

Both the Best Spa Resort in US Award from Condé Nast Traveler and Award of Excellence from Wine Spectator join a growing list of accolades that this California Wine Country hotel has earned over the years. Guests return trip after trip to savor the natural setting, refreshing wines and spacious, well-appointed guest rooms at this Renaissance Hotel. For travelers who wish to experience this award-winning Sonoma luxury hotel in person, book a stay today at The Lodge at Sonoma Renaissance Resort & Spa online at http://www.marriott.com/SFOLS.

Downtown Phoenix Hotel Offers Bonus Deal to Host Business Meetings

Meeting Planners shouldn’t just pick anywhere under the sun to have a meeting, conference, convention or retreat. That’s why the Renaissance Phoenix Downtown Hotel plans to offer businesses a special Pick Three package that will lure professionals with its unbeatable perks, deluxe accommodations and bright sun-shiny days.

The downtown Phoenix hotel’s group offer emphasizes savings, adds extra value to its deluxe accommodations and affords companies three incentives when 10 or more rooms are booked on peak nights by Dec. 31 and used by March 31, 2013. Options include a complimentary guest room for every 40 rooms booked, free high-speed Internet access in all attendees’ rooms, 10 percent discount on in-house audio and visual equipment, triple Marriott Rewards points up to 150,000, 30 percent allowable attrition, two VIP welcome amenities, two VIP round-trip airport transfers and one VIP suite upgrade.

The Phoenix Convention Center hotel’s 20 meeting rooms feature 60,000 square feet of flexible, sophistically styled space that can accommodate small breakout groups of eight people to large conferences of 950 guests. State-of-the-art audio and visual equipment, along with wireless high-speed Internet, will ensure the most complex presentations come off without a hitch. And calm, soft lighting coupled with engaging table elements will help keep attendees’ creativity flowing while they focus on the tasks at hand.

The Renaissance Phoenix Downtown hotel offers plenty of online information for their Phoenix meeting rooms to assist businesses with their event planning by calculating their costs and setting up their floor plans for maximum comfort and efficiency. The hotel provides professional concierges who can keep meetings running smoothly by making copies, faxing, shipping or printing necessary materials. Translators, notary publics and a messenger service are also available.

The Phoenix hotel deals guests two onsite eateries to enjoy a quick snack or full-fledged meal while taking a break from problem-solving. The casual Marston’s Café serves fresh American dishes for breakfast, lunch and dinner, while Icon Lounge dishes a stylish environment along with small plates and hand-crafted martinis for an after-work relaxation session.

When it comes to hotels near Chase Field, the downtown Renaissance showcases fresh guests rooms that are among the largest in Phoenix. Professionals who have worked long and hard over the course of a day can retire to one of the 518 stylish rooms with embossed wallpaper, upholstered headboards and granite surfaces. King- and queen-sized Serta mattresses are topped with 100 percent cotton bedding and plenty of down and feather pillows. Other high-end amenities include Herman Miller Aeron ergonomic desk chairs, 32-inch flat screen TVs with On-Command movies, USB ports to charge music players, in-room coffee makers and Aveda products in the bathrooms.

For information about the Pick Three package, contact William Stratton at William(dot)Stratton(at)renaissancehotels(dot)com.

San Antonio Marriott Rivercenter on Cvent List of Top 100 Meeting Hotels in U.S.

Like the famed Alamo nearby, a premier Riverwalk hotel has now become the stuff of legend—at least in the realm of event planning—by holding off the competition to be named one of the top 100 meeting hotels in the United States.

The San Antonio Marriott Rivercenter Hotel earned a No. 66 ranking from Cvent, the largest event management software company in country, in recognition of the hotel and its 63 meeting rooms with 60,000 square feet of event space. The San Antonio meeting space beat out 80,000 hotels and distinguished itself with its combination of luxury, privacy, service and amenities. Nearly 150,000 event and marketing professionals use Cvent software to manage 500,000 events and surveys nationwide.

This San Antonio Convention Center hotel towers over the River Walk area, offering gorgeous views and convenience to everything downtown San Antonio has to offer. The San Antonio Marriott Rivercenter welcomes events of any size, from large conventions of up to 6,400 attendees to more intimate board meetings with up to 10 people. Its largest room, the Grand Ballroom (at almost 41,000 square feet), provides a foyer with ample room for guests to mingle during pre- or post-function activities and features back-lit reader boards throughout the floor. The property is also technically adept with the latest Wireless IT network capabilities. Amenities throughout all the spaces include state-of-the-art audio and visual equipment, exceptional event menus, certified meeting coordinators and full-service tech support so that all presentations are engaging and successful.

In addition to the dynamic San Antonio meeting space, the hotel features a Starbucks onsite along with one of the city’s chicest and most vibrant dining experiences, Sazo’s Latin Grill. The restaurant features a Spanish-infused menu that includes tapas, paella and other local creations.

Convention-goers can rest their weary heads in one of 918 rooms or 82 suites on 38 floors with stunning views of San Antonio’s Riverwalk. Newly renovated rooms feature one king or two double beds with luxurious linens and plentiful pillows. High-end amenities include high-speed Internet, spacious work desks, Marriott’s Plug-In technology that allows guests to connect their laptops to high-definition LCD TVs, dual phone lines and premium satellite cable.

Hotel Near Las Vegas Convention Center Freshens Up for Summer with New Decor

Few things beat the summer heat like enjoying leisure time in and around a cool, inviting swimming pool. For those visiting Las Vegas in summertime, a nice hotel pool is virtually a prerequisite. Fortunately for guests staying at the Las Vegas Marriott, a long-popular hotel near the Las Vegas Strip, this prerequisite just got nicer and more inviting, along with several other areas of the property.

The Las Vegas Marriott invites travelers to experience a refreshed restaurant, bar, lobby, library and pool area. Designed to provide the perfect environment to relax, socialize and take a break, these updated areas turn this hotel near the Las Vegas Convention Center into an oasis.

The Marriott Las Vegas, Nevada Hotel invested over $800,000 dollars into renovating its public spaces, including its restaurant and bar. The lobby area is the perfect place to cool off after walking the Las Vegas Strip. The lobby also features a new modern décor that offers grand lighting fixtures, adding personality to the space.

Communal tables allow guests to set up computers, check travel plans, read a book or socialize with one another. Designed to connect, improve productivity and relax, these tables are located in the refreshed lobby Great Room. After a meeting at the nearby Las Vegas Convention Center, groups can recap the event or have a casual meeting. And with complimentary Wi-Fi in the lobby and communal spaces, travelers can easily share their experiences with the home office, family and friends via email.

At the hotel’s Café 325 Restaurant and Lounge, spaces for dining and socializing, as well as enjoying beverages at the bar, have been refurnished and made over to provide a more inviting atmosphere where guests will enjoy spending time. For this hotel near the Las Vegas Convention Center, thought was given to making the space an attractive location for casual meetings, allowing associates who need a retreat from the busy LVCC to congregate nearby and enjoy a delicious meal and/or drink while they confer.

Travelers who book a stay at this hotel near the Las Vegas Strip can experience all the renovations first hand. Just minutes from popular Las Vegas Strip attractions and the Las Vegas Convention Center, the Las Vegas Marriott Hotel is an ideal choice for business and leisure travelers alike.

Addison Hotel Offers Weekend Package for Full Slate of Summer Events

There’s nothing small about the town of Addison – except the 4.35 square miles it occupies on Dallas’ northern border. The prestigious ZIP code is famous for its upscale shopping and abundant entertainment opportunities.

The Dallas/Addison Marriott Quorum by the Galleria wants to give visitors a slice of the Addison life by offering its Weekends With Marriott package in conjunction with several summer events set to take place in the town. One of the highly affordable Addison hotel deals features deluxe accommodations with stylish décor from $109 per night. Guests can enjoy high-speed Internet, flat-screen TVs and plug-in panels in each of 536 smoke-free rooms, plus $100 Bonus Buck for a future stay at Marriott. A two-night minimum stay is required so visitors will get the full experience of prominent events such as:

-Addison Kaboom Town on July 3. The 30-minute fireworks show at Addison Circle Park has been recognized as the best Fourth of July fireworks show in the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex by the Dallas Observer and is ranked as the No. 3 pyrotechnics show in the United States by AOL. Visitors of this hotel near the Dallas Galleria will be just a close walk to the nationally recognized show choreographed to music. The event also features food, live music, family picnic games and activities and an air show featuring the Cavanaugh Flight Museum Warbird Flyover. Music from Emerald City will fill the air at a free after-party.

-Addison Oktoberfest 2012 on Sept. 20-23. More than 60,000 people will gather at Addison Circle Park for polka, German food and beer along with folk dancing, sing-alongs, arts and crafts, a carnival and more during this four-day event listed as one of the Top 10 Oktoberfest celebrations in North America by USA Today. Other events include a Dachshund parade and races, yodeling competition and German spelling bee.

-Addison Summer Series from now through August. The town comes alive on Saturday evenings with the sounds of jazz, salsa and more from local musicians at Beckert Park. Admission is free.

There are so many other things to do in Addison, too, during the summer. Visitors can enjoy a trip to the Mary Kay or Cavanaugh Flight museums, take in a show at the WaterTower Theatre or go on a shopping spree at the Dallas Galleria featuring more than 200 stores and an ice rink. The Addison hotel offers complimentary transportation within 3 miles so guests also can hear live music at a number of local clubs, laugh at a hilarious routine at a local comedy shop or grab some seafood or steaks at more than 170 restaurants within the town’s boundaries.

The Weekends With Marriott package runs through Sept. 2 and can be booked using promotional code I24.

Fort Worth Luxury Hotel Named Among Top Meeting Facilities in the U.S.

Officials at The Worthington Renaissance Fort Worth Hotel have countless reasons to let out a Texas-sized “yeeeee haaaaaaw” in Sundance Square thanks to the largest event management software company in the country.

The Forth Worth luxury hotel has just been ranked No. 71 on Cvent’s list of top 100 meeting hotels in the United States. With 18 meeting rooms and 55,000 square feet of flexible space, the Fort Worth hotel known as the star of Texas outshined 80,000 facilities and was hailed by 150,000 event and marketing professionals nationwide.

The coveted honor acknowledges superlative ability of the downtown Fort Worth Stockyards hotel to host everything from large-scale conventions for 1,400 people in the Rio Grande Room to intimate breakout groups or executive sessions of up to 18 attendees in the Treaty Oak Boardroom. Meeting spaces feature custom-designed flooring, contemporary lighting, stylish glassware and state-of-the-art audio and visual equipment. Other amenities include the Grand Ballroom’s formal yet cozy foyer with bar and the Boardroom’s executive leather swivel chairs and Italian marble conference table. High-speed Internet, along with copy, fax and messenger services, will ensure the most complex of presentations come off without a hitch.

Business professionals can grab breakfast, lunch or dinner at the Fort Worth convention center hotel’s Vidalias restaurant serving authentic southern cuisine with an emphasis on local, fresh ingredients. The hotel also offers BarWired Internet Café, serving Starbucks coffee, and its lobby bar, where bartenders can concoct any cocktail imaginable, including the house specialty: a Yellow Rose Martini.

After spending long hours in successful strategic planning sessions, convention-goers can retire to one of 474 rooms or 30 suites on 12 floors with spectacular views of downtown Fort Worth. Guest rooms designed in a tasteful Western style feature flat-screen TVs; comfortable bedding with custom duvets, down comforters and plenty of fluffy pillows; high-speed Internet; spacious desks and in-room coffee and tea service.

Chow Time! Seattle Waterfront Hotel Restaurant Nominated for Four Awards

Chef Thomas Horner is making a big splash with his seafood plates at one of the premier Seattle Waterfront restaurants.

Hailing from Hook & Plow restaurant at the Seattle Marriott Waterfront Hotel, Chef Horner and his expertly crafted seafood chowder recently competed at the 2012 Waterfront Maritime Chowder Cook Off.

The title of best chowder is no small matter in a city known for its seafood. Chef Horner and the Hook & Plow restaurant competed in four categories, including Most Unique, Most Succulent Seafood, Overall Seafood Chowder, and The People’s Choice Award. The Seattle Marriott Waterfront restaurant’s team received an impressive 1400 out of 1700 votes in the People’s Choice Award category.

It’s no surprise that Hook & Plow earned such high praise. The Seattle, Washington hotel’s restaurant focuses on freshly-caught seafood and regionally-sourced produce, paired with artisanal wines and craft beers. Diners can enjoy breakfast, lunch and dinner either inside the newly designed interior or outside on the scenic patio.

Guests who truly want to indulge their taste buds can take advantage of a special six course dining experience in Chef Horner’s kitchen. The meal includes carefully selected flight of local Washington wines. For more information, call 206-256-1040.

Guests who wish to experience Hook & Plow’s award-winning chowder for themselves should visit the Seattle Marriott Waterfront Hotel. Regarded as a favorite destination among Seattle hotels near Pike Place Market, the Marriott hotel offers comfortable accommodations near some of the top attractions in Seattle. For more information on the hotel and the on-site Hook & Plow restaurant, visit http://www.marriott.com/seawf.

DFW Airport Hotel Celebrates the Events of Summer with New Deal

At one of the nicest DFW Airport hotels, something is always happening, and now it’s easier than ever to get there—and to save some money—thanks to a new hotel deal.

The Dallas/Fort Worth Airport Marriott announces their new Escape Entertainment Package. This hot new DFW hotel deal offers some cool savings for travelers headed to events in North Texas: guests can stay at one of the best hotels near DFW Airport from $99.

Conveniently located near the DFW Airport and known as one of the best hotels near Grapevine Milles, the Dallas/Fort Worth Airport Marriott Hotel is the perfect place to stay when attending events anywhere in the Metroplex.

And there’s always something happening near this hotel near DFW. Sports fans can spend a day at the ballpark and celebrate the Great American Pastime when the White Sox match up against the Texas Rangers from July 27-29. For those who love pigskin, Alabama plays Michigan at Cowboy Stadium on September 1. Music lovers can catch great concerts, including Aerosmith and Marc Anthony at the American Airlines Center on July 28 and September 2, respectively.

After experiencing all the fun events in the Dallas/Fort Worth area, guests can retire to one of the most comfortable hotels near Grapevine Mills Mall. Each of the well-appointed guest rooms at the Dallas/Fort Worth Airport Marriott Hotel serves as the perfect place to relax and recover after a fun day out and about. And since the hotel is convenient to the Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport, travelers can easily get in and out of the Metroplex without any hassle.

The Escape Entertainment hotel deal is available July 27-29 and August 30-September 2, 2012. To reserve this special hotel deal and enjoy nightly rates from just $99, use promotional code XY0.

Hotel in Torrance California Connects Guests with Beach

  At one of the best hotels in Torrance, guests can learn how Californians experience leisure.



The Southern California Leisure offer at the Torrance Marriott South Bay Hotel invites guests to relax, enjoy great amenities and discover nearby Torrance Beach. The Torrance Hotel’s new deal includes deluxe room accommodations, complimentary self-parking and complimentary high-speed Internet access.

The complimentary self-parking makes parking hassle-free, while also giving travelers the freedom to quickly reach Torrance Beach at any time of day: whether to catch picturesque sunsets, enjoy the afternoon sun or take a moonlit walk along the beach. Furthermore, the complimentary high-speed Internet access lets guests check stay connected.

Finally, guests can retire to deluxe South Bay hotel rooms, luxuriously appointed with 32” LCD televisions, comfortable linens, marble bathrooms and in-room coffee maker.

As one of the closest Torrance hotels to the beach, the Torrance Marriott South Bay Hotel is the ideal choice to relax and unwind like a Californian. Book the Southern California Leisure Package, ready the sunscreen and beach towels, and discover Torrance Beach.

The Southern California Leisure Package can be reserved from now until September 5, 2012, and is available Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday. No minimum stay requirement. For more information, visit http://www.marriott.com/LAXTR.

Just minutes from the Pacific Coast Highway and miles of pristine beaches, the Marriott Torrance Hotel is located in the renowned South Bay area. Each guest room features comfortable Revive bedding, high-speed Internet and suites with flat-screen LCD TVs. Guests enjoy on-site dining options, including Starbucks and the Garden Court Restaurant, or can venture offsite to the nearby Del Amo Fashion Mall or Redondo Beach Pier. To relax in the evenings, guests can sample any one of the 40 specialty wines at the signature Rain Wine Bar and Lounge. The Torrance Marriott hotel is also Clean Bay Certified, ensuring it does its part in protecting the South Bay area from pollution. With a state-of-the-art fitness center and 30,000 square feet of flexible event space, the Marriott Torrance hotel is the perfect destination for a private getaway or a large event. For more information about the hotel, visit http://www.torrancemarriott.com

Aliso Viejo Hotel Offers Southern California Weekend Getaway with Relaxing Hotel Deal

This summer, vacationers can discover a new definition of wellness at one of the best hotels in Aliso Viejo thanks to a new hotel deal.

 The Renaissance ClubSport Aliso Viejo Hotel invites couples, families and travelers to take advantage of a brand new hotel deal that lets guests stay in shape and feel great. The Aliso Viejo Wellness Package is perfectly tailored to those who live an active life style, those who wish to relax and those who enjoy pampering. This special Aliso Viejo hotel deal includes:

•     Accommodations for two
•     Complimentary one hour personal training session
•     Couples massage at the R Spa couples’ massage room

This deal is the best way to take advantage of the Aliso Viejo hotel’s 75,000-square foot fitness club. After a personal training session, guests will feel empowered and energized to greet the day. State-of-the-art workout equipment offers the latest in personal fitness, while a vibrant environment encourages everyone to be at their very best.

After the workout, guests can relax with a special massage that will soothe weary muscles and offer a well-deserved state of tranquility. Expert masseuses work their magic and demonstrate why so many people from all over the country rave about the R Spa’s signature services.

At the end of the day, guests will retire to spacious and luxuriously appointed guest rooms. There, vacationers will discover a private getaway and thoughtful amenities, which has earned the Renaissance ClubSport the reputation as one of the best hotels in Aliso Viejo. Incorporating the scenic surroundings into the décor, each hotel room is a paradise that serves as a romantic retreat, a personal escape or a welcomed getaway. High-speed Internet access lets guests stay connected, while luxurious, vibrantly colored bedding adds a pop of both style and comfort to the room.

Discover wellness, relaxation and personal strength with the new Aliso Viejo hotel deal at the Renaissance ClubSport Hotel.

To book the Aliso Viejo Wellness Package, use promotional code WWU online or call 1-800-834-7236. This deal is available Thursdays through Sundays from now until December 15, 2012. Blackout dates may apply, and advanced reservations are required. For more information about this and other hotel deals, visit http://www.marriott.com/SNAAV