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Press Releases - The Traveler's Journal
Informative Press Releases for Travel
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The following information is provided by the travel supplier or its public relations representative. The Traveler's Journal can accept no responsibility for the accuracy or validity of any material in this section.
Where To Go Next for Thursday, June 12
06-13-2008
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Today's Travel News
Thursday, June 12, 2008 |
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Is This You? Flexibility, choice, authentic experiences and the ability to customize a trip are what people want most in tours and vacation packages, according to a member survey conducted by the U.S. Tour Operators Association. Value for the dollar, enhanced service and new destinations were other elements cited by USTOA members, who send 11 million travelers on vacation yearly. Let's look at what that means. Flexibility - The survey revealed that, while travelers want the value of a vacation package or tour, they also want flexibility. "People are asking for more free time, more shopping, and greater choice," says Bob Whitley, USTOA president. "Tours today are answering that demand by balancing free time with sightseeing so that there is plenty of freedom for on-your-own activities." Whitley noted that travelers also want centrally located hotels for easy access to major sites they can explore on their own. Customization - Tailoring trips to fit personal requirements, whether these involve dietary concerns or special interests, is also important, according to the survey. Travelers particularly cite private tours and customized programs that let them match activities to their interests. In fact, the same USTOA member survey revealed that independent customized packages scored the greatest gains in 2007 compared to 2006, with more than 80% of respondents reporting growth in this area. Enhanced Experiences - Travelers are increasingly asking for experiential vacations. "They want new and authentic experiences, cultural enrichment, and in-depth discoveries," says Whitley. "Travelers want to meet local people and to explore indigenous cultures, rather than take part in traditional tourist activities. Participation in learning experiences is high on travelers' wish lists," says Whitley. Some examples: a tour of the Middle East that includes a short Nile cruise to see how life is lived in rural Egypt, with stops at great archeological treasures along the way; or an included learning activity, such as visiting Aboriginal communities or studying conservation while exploring Australia's Great Barrier Reef. ...More Recent Articles |
With summer coming and families looking for opportunities to get away once school is out, Sandos Hotels & Resorts has launched a sizzling summer sale with reduced rates at three of its Riviera Maya, Mexico resorts. These rates are valid on bookings made online through http://www.SandosHotels.com. Travel must be completed by August 24, 2008. ...More
Cape Grace announces the newest and most exclusive way to see Cape Town - by private yacht. Available exclusively for Cape Grace guests, the Spirit of the Cape is a 56-foot Aicon fly-bridge luxury motor yacht docked in Cape Town's yacht marina, directly in front of the hotel's Bascule Bar with private access for hotel guests. ...More
Discover the rich cultural spirit of one destination and the exotic beaches of another with the new eight-day Bangkok & Phuket itinerary from Ritz Tours, priced from $1,661 per person plus taxes, based on double occupancy, including airfare, hotels and sightseeing. ...More
With Queen Mary 2's Transatlantic season underway, the accomplished actors and directors of London's Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA) are engaged in a full programme of performances and workshops designed to engage and entertain the ship's guests. Highlights of this season's RADA programming schedule include abridged versions of Shakespeare's Richard III and Romeo & Juliet, Charles Dickens' Great Expectations, Dylan Thomas' Under Milk Wood and Noel Coward's Private Lives, as well as three acting workshops led by RADA's experienced troupe. ...More
With the cost of food and gas prices reaching historic highs, Air Jamaica Vacations is making it easier to getaway with steep discounts, free nights, room upgrades, kids stay free offers, and other value-added inclusions this fall. Unbelievably low air and hotel packages for fall travel start at only $299* per person for a 3-night stay at Samsara Cliffs Resort in Jamaica. ...More
Jet Airways, India's premier airline, and Etihad Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates, together announced a new code-share agreement and network-wide reciprocal frequent-flyer partnership effective July 01, 2008, subject to regulatory approval. ...More Briefly Kapalua Resort has announced that the extensive, year-long renovation of Maui's beloved Honolua Store is complete. The renovation preserved the existing historic building while expanding the store's grocery, wine and sundry offerings - showcasing locally made specialty products, health foods and organic brands. As Chicago was recently named U.S. City of the Year*, The Westin Chicago River North invites travelers to experience the Wind City this Fourth of July weekend. From the Taste of Chicago to Independence Day fireworks, the city offers excitement and activities for all ages this upcoming holiday. A new era in expedition cruising began this morning when Silversea Cruises' eagerly anticipated Prince Albert II sailed under the landmark Tower Bridge to welcome her first guests aboard. The Hilton Los Cabos Beach & Golf Resort invites discerning spa lovers to relax, unwind and enjoy a truly indulgent wellness experience with the new Pure Bliss Spa package. |
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