Articles for ‘International Vacations’ Category
Wednesday, December 26th, 2012
By Mark Chesnut
In many parts of North America, it’s the time of year when travelers may find themselves spending more time in the airport than they’d like, thanks to winter storms, flight delays and cancellations. But relief may be closer than you think, when you check into one of the new generation of airport hotels that help passengers relax, rejuvenate and even conduct business, often without stepping a foot outside the terminal building. (more…)
Tags: Los Angeles hotels
Posted in Business Travel, California Vacation, Hotels, International Vacations | No Comments »
Friday, December 14th, 2012
“Hobbiton,” also known as Matamata, Waikato, New Zealand. Photo source: Rob & Jules.
No, this week’s Foto Friday pick isn’t a country revival painting–you’re looking at a hobbit-hole view of the idyllic New Zealand countryside. The farming town of Matamata played host to the Lord of the Rings series and takes up the task again in the upcoming The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey. The best part? You can feed your Hobbit fever and visit Matamata and the set of The Hobbit! The set is preserved, and year-round tours serve visitors looking to capture the magic of the Shire.
Tags: New Zealand vacations
Posted in Foto Friday, International Vacations | No Comments »
Thursday, December 13th, 2012
The Tryp by Wyndham Panama Centro is one of the newest hotels in Panama City, Panama.
By Mark Chesnut
Panama’s capital, Panama City, is a metropolis on the move. With an expanded international airport, an eye-catching new museum by a world-famous architect and an increasingly restored historic center among its ongoing projects—not to mention the massive plans to widen the Panama Canal—this Latin American hotspot is preparing to welcome more business and leisure travelers than ever. So it’s no surprise that an array of new hotels are rising in the city center, to better serve the needs of a decidedly international clientele. Here’s a quick guide to what you shouldn’t miss. (more…)
Tags: wyndham hotels
Posted in Business Travel, Eco-Tourism, Hotels, International Vacations | No Comments »
Tuesday, November 27th, 2012
Luxury in the air: The Qantas first class cabin.
By Mark Chesnut
No one looks forward to a long nonstop flight. But sitting in the front of the cabin can make a big difference when it comes to comfort and amenities. Here are a few examples of the advantages of flying first class on long-haul flights. (more…)
Tags: airlines
Posted in Business Travel, Europe Vacation, Flights, International Vacations | No Comments »
Tuesday, November 13th, 2012
Airport oasis: XpresSpa is one of the largest operators of airport spas. Pictured: Dallas/Fort Worth.
By Mark Chesnut
Whether it’s delayed and overcrowded flights, a high-pressure business meeting or just an overlong trip, there are countless reasons why travelers get stressed out while traveling. Luckily, there are plenty of opportunities to relieve that stress, thanks to the array of independent spas and kiosks, airport-adjacent hotels and luxurious airline-operated lounges that offer services designed to soothe and rejuvenate. Here are a few ways to work those knots out. (more…)
Tags: airlines, Flights
Posted in Business Travel, International Vacations, On the Road, Travel Tips | No Comments »
Tuesday, October 9th, 2012
Room with a view: The Distrito Capital is one of Mexico City’s most stylish hotels.
By Mark Chesnut
As the largest metropolis in North America and one of the biggest cities in the world, Mexico City is an important hub for business travel, while Mexico City vacations are growing in popularity, thanks to the city’s many museums, historic attractions and sophisticated dining and shopping.
During a recent visit to attend FITA, the largest annual international tourism conference in Mexico City, I came up with a few helpful tips for making the most of your next visit. (more…)
Tags: Mexico City
Posted in Business Travel, Hotels, International Vacations, Mexico Vacation, Travel Tips | No Comments »
Thursday, October 4th, 2012
The Biltmore Culinary Academy, at the Biltmore Hotel in Coral Gables, offers tasty team building activities.
By Mark Chesnut
Whether it’s rappelling down a cliff, competing to finish a gourmet recipe or engaging in a lively scavenger hunt, team building activities are increasingly popular for businesses looking to build camaraderie, communication and productivity among staff and even with clients. Here are a few hotels that offer interesting options for having fun while working together. (more…)
Posted in Business Travel, Europe Vacation, Florida Vacation, Food & Wine, Hotels, International Vacations | No Comments »
Tuesday, October 2nd, 2012
Retro chic: La Suite 007 exudes James Bond style, at Seven Hotel Paris.
By Mark Chesnut
If you think about it, James Bond—the world’s most famous secret agent—is nothing more than a very talented business traveler. His business might be a bit different from most frequent flyers, but the places that he’s stayed in many movies aren’t out of reach for more common, real-life globetrotters. And now, as fans celebrate the 50th anniversary of the popular movie franchise and a new film is about to debut this fall, the timing is perfect for making that next trip a bit more like a 007 assignment. Here are some hotels that Bond has booked. (more…)
Posted in Business Travel, Europe Vacation, Hotels, International Vacations, Las Vegas Vacation | No Comments »
Thursday, September 20th, 2012
The Best Western Premier Prestige Oceanfront Resort in Sooke, British Columbia, exudes elegance.
By Mark Chesnut
Not every Best Western hotel is created equal. Since unveiling its new tiered brands in recent years, travelers can choose from three different categories of price, amenities and ambiance. In general, Best Western and Best Western Plus tend to have lower rates, while the top-of-the-line Best Western Premier targets travelers seeking a more upscale experience. And the Premier brand continues to expand on a global scale. (more…)
Tags: Best Western
Posted in Business Travel, Florida Vacation, Hotels, International Vacations | No Comments »
Monday, August 20th, 2012
- Alaska Airlines allows passengers to self-tag their own bags at two airports, with more to come.
By Mark Chesnut
The writing is on the wall: The amount of interaction that future travelers will have with human airline employees is decreasing. (more…)
Tags: airlines, Alaska Airlines, baggage, baggage fees, checked baggage, checked bags, Delta Airlines, Lufthansa, Qantas Airways
Posted in Business Travel, Flights, International Vacations, Las Vegas Vacation | No Comments »
