Travel money: When is the best time to buy?
Hotel booked? Check. Travel insurance? check. Sun tan lotion, sunglasses, reading books all packed? Check, check and check.
Foreign currency? Oh, I will sort out that when I arrive.
When it comes to purchasing holiday cash, many of us leave this till the last moment and sometimes completely ignore it until we have arrived at the airport.
According to a YouGov survey, the most popular choices for consumers looking to buy their holiday spending money before they went away included visiting the local high street, such as a travel agent, or alternatively visiting the Post Office.
But going to your local bank, visiting the Post Office or using your card abroad is not always the most cost-effective way of purchasing your holiday spending money.
Just as you will look for the best deals on hotels and flights, you should do the same when it comes to purchasing foreign currency.
It is a commodity which is often lumbered with poor exchange rates and high transaction fees.
Most expensive
Whatever you do, if you are looking to get the best rate then do not consider buying your holiday cash at the airport as it is the most expensive way.
10 tricks for saving on summer airfare
If it seems like the airlines have a few new tricks up their sleeves this summer, its not your imagination. The Department of Transportation (DOT) may have taken some of the sting out of deceptive pricing practices, but it hasnt done much to change the fact that summer airfare is expensive--or that the airlines are still being sneaky with their fare rules and restrictions. Whether its new carry-on bag fees, hidden fuel surcharges, or coordinated price hikes for popular travel days, the airlines are always doing something to get hold of just a little more of your money.
Meet the Digital Camera That Lets You Travel Through Time
BlackBerrys new camera is trying to change, once again, what photographys all about.
At the BlackBerry World conference yesterday, RIMs Vivek Bhardwaj introduced a new camera being developed for the companys new product, the BlackBerry 10 -- one that allows users to detect faces and scroll through frames of the images themselves. We actually let you go back and forth in time, Bhardwaj said. Instead of missing a crucial instant -- instant-missing being a frustrating mainstay of photography both analog and digital -- RIMs new technology will allow photographers to capture that perfect moment.
Which: whoa. On the one hand, this is a fantastic innovation, one that could bring a deserved death blow to those group shots showing five people who are smiling charmingly and two who seem to be red-eyed/cross-eyed/drooling.
On the other hand, though, a camera like this -- one that produces images that arent actually photos in the traditional sense, but rather a tenuous collection of digital composites -- could also represent yet another death blow to what we think of as photography in the first place. Consider, for just a Sontagian second, what a photograph is all about. At core, its a record of a single moment in time. It doesnt just represent an instant; it captures it. (Photographs, Sontag says, furnish evidence.) Which is another way of saying that photos are defined as much by time as by space. As objects, they transport a particular piece of the past into the insistence of the present.
BlackBerrys image-capture system proposes to change that. It proposes to take away the singularity of the photograph itself. Cameras, bells and whistles aside, have tended to be blunt instruments. Milliseconds can divide a brilliant photograph (smiles! charm!) from a horrible one (red-eye! drool!). And heres the thing: That tension has been part of photographys appeal. Photos, as objects, take on the contingency of live performance -- the same kind of thing you get from theater or comedy or dance or speech playing out, precariously, in front of you. Theres an element of fleeting reality, of blink-and-you-miss-it suspense -- of danger -- to the art that results. The whole, beautiful thing could fall apart in an instant.
And time being time, it will fall apart.
Unless a photographer, armed with a camera, good timing, and good luck, is there to save it.
Travel Like A Royal Family This Year
Queen Elizabeth II, arguably the most famous woman in the world is also one of the most travelled individuals. As head of state of 16 nations she has visited 135 countries - many of them several times . Following in her footsteps, throughout The Queens Diamond Jubilee year, Quintessentially Travel name their top 5 suggestions to replicate the familys itinerary.
London, UK (PRWEB) May 02, 2012
Quintessentially Travel take a look at The Royal Familys globetrotting antics over the past year, sharing their suggestions on how best to replicate their itineraries...
Prince Harry - Jamaica Inn, SAVING 550 pp
As referred to by Harry whilst addressing a banquet in Jamaica:
Its vibrant, vigour and wonderful welcome to visitors and the islands natural beauty combines to make Jamaica unique.
The Jamaica Inn has been a Caribbean classic since the 1950s - and its colonial allure is timeless. Marilyn Monroe, Noel Coward and Errol Flynn have all cast their shadows on the terrace, but whilst the old-time glamour remains, manager Mary Phillips keeps the place up-to-date, so it appeals to a range of ages. Located on a stunning private cove just east of Ocho Rios, with 45 suites and 8 cottages, the hotel has been in the same family for over 50 years. All in all, its great for those who want a quiet, classy atmosphere, and some good old-fashioned spoiling.
Offer: Stay 4 nights for the price of 3; 7 nights for the price of 5 or 14 nights for the price of 10 plus receive a daily credit that can be used towards food and beverages in the hotel. This offer is valid for travel from 2nd May - 14 December 2012. SAVE 550 per person based on a 2 week holiday.
The Prince Of Wales and The Duchess Of Cornwall - Molori Great Barrier Reef, Port Douglas
Molori Great Barrier Reef is located between the worlds oldest rainforest and the Great Barrier Reef in tropical Port Douglas, Australia. The exquisitely-designed five bedroom retreat is available in its entirety and features a totally separated Master Suite and four king-sized bedrooms with en suite bathrooms. The contemporary living area combines an informal lounge with an open plan kitchen and both indoor and outdoor dining areas. The retreat also features a private infinity pool, a steam room and a surround sound cinema amp; media room. Guests can enjoy the services of a private chef and butler who provide the distinctive Molori standards of service and hospitality.
The Earl and Countess Of Wessex - Carlisle Bay, Antigua - SAVING 590pp
With a ravishing beach in a secluded bay, a backdrop of hills and rainforest, two outstanding restaurants, an exceptional spa and philosophy founded on generous service, Carlisle Bay is simply stunning. Carlisle Bay is home to two of Antiguas most outstanding restaurants with Indigo on the Beach, an al fresco affair and East, offering exciting Pan-Asian food in a stunning contemporary setting with one side overlooking spectacular torch lit water feature. It is a fantastic place for rest and relaxation, but if one needs something a little more exhilarating, why not try zipping through the rainforest on high wires 350 feet above the tree tops?
Offer: Stay 7 nights, pay 4; Stay 14 nights, pay 8. Valid for travel 28 April - 30 June. Save from 590pp on a 7 night stay basis.
The Princess Royal - Azura at Quilalea, Mozambique
Quilalea Private Island: a private, wholly uninhabited island paradise surrounded by the pristine waters of the Quirimbas Archipelago marine sanctuary. Azura at Quilalea is a hidden gem where one can experience total privacy, exclusivity and beauty.
Inkeeping with the uninhabited nature of the island, the retreat consists of only 9 seafront villas. Built from natural stone and makuti thatch, featuring both indoor and outdoor showers and own private deck that meets the beach, the villa allows someone to feel at one with the beautiful, natural surroundings. Choose a villa on either the sunrise or sunset side of the island.
Travel Plaza Television Announces Nationwide 3D Digital Signage Program
OGDEN, Utah, May 02, 2012 (BUSINESS WIRE) --
Travel Plaza TV, LLC has launched the first nationwide 3D digital
signage network accessible to more than 23 million travel plaza
customers every month, according to company officials.
"This 3D experience, without glasses, is revolutionary. Customers will
be amazed at what they are seeing and advertisers will reap the
benefits. 3D is the future, and of course our system will display 2D
content as well," said Bill Botte, senior executive vice-president of
Travel Plaza TV. Deployment of the specialized 3D screens at over 400
travel plazas across the U.S. will be completed by the end of June.
"The driver recruiting industry has been looking for an innovative,
digital replacement for print advertisements for decades. The 'reach out
and touch' digital technology is going to give advertisers and
recruiters a unique edge," said Ralph Head, board member and 30-year
industry expert.
This initial launch of the 3D digital signage includes 350 locations in
the Pilot Flying J network. Pilot Flying J is the largest operator of
travel centers and travel plazas in North America, serving more than 400
million customers per year. The company also ranks No. 11 on Forbes'
list of America's largest private companies.
"Pilot Flying J is proud to partner with Travel Plaza TV to make this
exciting new 3D signage available at many of our nationwide travel
centers and travel plazas," said Mark Hazelwood, executive vice
president for Pilot Flying J. "As the driver-driven company, Pilot
Flying J is always looking for new and innovative ways to serve our
customers and to highlight our wide selection of merchandise, food and
beverages and other convenience items we offer to meet our customers'
needs."
Roady's is a leading national association of truck stops and travel
plazas eager to participate in Travel Plaza TV's initial roll-out of
screens, helping make TPTV the largest network of 3D digital signage in
the market today.
TPTV's 46- and 32-inch screens will deliver the 3D content completely
"glasses free." Officials say this is the first national distribution of
3D content where the customer does not need any special equipment or
setup. Just walk in and be amazed. Watch for this innovative technology
only at Travel Plaza TV equipped plazas.
About Travel Plaza TV
Travel Plaza TV provides advertising services and opportunities to the
traveling public, long-haul specialists, advertisers and travel plaza
operators across the U.S. The company's network of nearly 400 nationwide
locations features 3D advertising displays that reach 25 million
travelers each month. Travel Plaza TV offers affordable 3D advertising
campaigns that are nationwide, specific to an Interstate corridor or
targeted to a specific geographic area. For more information, visit
http://www.travelplazatv.com .
About Pilot Flying J
Pilot Flying J, the driver-driven company, is headquartered in
Knoxville, Tennessee, and has more than 550 retail locations across
North America. The company employs more than 20,000 people and is the
largest operator of travel centers and travel plazas in North America.
Visit
www.pilotflyingj.com
for more information.
Photos/Multimedia Gallery Available:
http://www.businesswire.com/cgi-bin/mmg.cgi?eid=50258644&lang=en
SOURCE: Travel Plaza TV, LLC
Travel Plaza TV
Bill Botte
203-355-0530
Bill@travelplazatv.com
or
Moxley Carmichael (Pilot Flying J)
Lauren Christ
865-544-0088
lchrist@moxleycarmichael.com
Copyright Business Wire 2012
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USA Travel: American Queen Mississippi River cruise a great way to vacation
Adrian Sainz
The Associated Press
HENDERSON, KY.--The churning red paddlewheel propels the steamboat along the wide Mississippi River, like a slow-moving time machine through a slice of Americana that harks back to Mark Twain and the 19th century.
Passengers enjoy tea time in the ladies' parlour, musical shows in the Grand Saloon, lessons on river history and four-course meals in an antebellum-style dining room.
With the relaunching of the American Queen, steamboat travel has returned to the Mississippi and Ohio rivers for the first time since 2008. The boat, the largest of its kind in the world, was christened Friday in Memphis as it left for a seven-day cruise. Future cruises will go all the way to Pittsburgh and St. Paul, Minnesota; some routes include stops in New Orleans and St. Louis.
"I find myself inspired by the quiet, still majesty of a river of this size, and I appreciate the insight that they've given us for the contribution that these rivers have made to America," said Jim Ahrenholz, 69, who took the trip with his wife, Cathy.
The American Queen and its sister boats, the Delta Queen and Mississippi Queen, carried passengers up and down the Mississippi for decades, continuing a tradition that began in the early 19th century, when steamboats replaced keelboats as the main source of transportation and commerce on the river.
Towns sprouted along the route as the boats carried cargo like cotton, tobacco and sugar from Louisiana to Minnesota and back. The ballad "Ol' Man River" from the 1927 musical "Showboat" lamented the backbreaking hardships of black dockworkers. Before the Civil War, the heavy cargo lifting was often done by slaves.
The river was also the site of several Civil War battles, with Confederate and Union ironclad ships battling for control of the strategically vital artery.
Author Mark Twain, who was born Samuel Clemens, took his pen name "Mark Twain" from a term used on the river to measure water depth. Twain grew up in a river townand is best known for his classic novels, "Tom Sawyer" and "The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn." But he also wrote a memoir of his years as a steamboat pilot called "Life on the Mississippi."
Riverboats even turned up in 20th century rock and roll, with Creedence Clearwater Revival famously belting out "Rollin' on the river" as they sang "Proud Mary" in tribute to a "riverboat queen."
But long-distance riverboat travel along the Mississippi stopped four years ago, when the company that owned the American Queen ceased operations. The boat was later bought for $15.5 million by the Great American Steamboat Company and underwent a $6 million refurbishment. The company is betting on the expectation that passengers from around the world will be drawn to the nostalgic trips.
Large port cities such as New Orleans, Memphis and St. Louis, along with smaller stops like Natchez and Vicksburg in Mississippi, are also hopeful that the boat will bring tourists to sightsee, shop and spend money during port calls or before they board. But this is not a trip for cruisers on a budget. Depending on the trip length and type of cabin, rates range from $995 a person to more than $8,000 for the most luxurious accommodations, though the price covers meals, snacks, coffee, soda, beer and wine with dinner, some shore excursions in larger ports and one night at a land hotel.
At those prices, even passengers enjoying the 19th century decor and timeless views won't mind some modern amenities. The boat has an exercise room, swimming pool, comfortable beds and flat-screen TVs in every room.
The trip that began in Memphis was the American Queen's first cruise following a formal christening by the boat's godmother, Priscilla Presley. The ex-wife of the late rock-and-roll icon Elvis Presley, who lived in Memphis, launched the voyage with the traditional smashing of a champagne bottle.
American Queen's decor includes deep burgundy carpets, regal staircases and ornate chandeliers. In the Grand Saloon, the dark wooden dance floor, theatre-style balconies and large stage host games like bingo during the day and nightly shows featuring Big Band music or a Mark Twain look-alike spinning tales of life on the Mississippi.
Breakfast and lunch are buffet-style; 24-hour snack service is available in a section of the boat called Front Porch of America, complete with rocking chairs and bench swings. Highlights were a New Orleans-style jazz brunch with shrimp, grits and crab cake eggs Benedict, a three-course dinner featuring duck breast with orange-currant sauce and dessert beignets, and excellent beef brisket po' boys served at an outdoor bar-restaurant called the River Grill.
Three bars stay open late into the night. The Engine Room Bar has dark wood chairs, portholes with a view of the paddlewheel and a piano-banjo duo. A piano player also sings in the Captain's Bar.
Cruise officials acknowledge that some issues remain to be worked out. Problems have included isolated plumbing issues; inexperienced staffers unable to give good directions to sections of the boat; and an hour-long wait for a mediocre burger at the River Grill. In the dining room, staff struggled at times with special orders. But housekeepers efficiently attended to rooms twice a day and filled special requests for sundries like ice and toothpaste.
A marketing blitz to advertise trips to travel agents and the public begins May 7.
JUST THE FACTS
Steamboat cruises on the Mississippi and Ohio rivers depart from Memphis, New Orleans, St. Louis, Cincinnati, Pittsburgh and St. Paul, Minn., on trips from three to 10 nights; http://www.greatamericansteamboatcompany.com. Per-person rates for double rooms, meals and beverages, including some shore excursions and one night in a land-based hotel before or after departure, range from $995 to more than $8,000, depending on accommodations and trip length.
Travel-Ticker.com Unveils Summer 2012 Where To Go Now & How Guide: Top Five …
SAN FRANCISCO, May 3, 2012 /PRNewswire via COMTEX/ --
The deal experts at Travel-Ticker.com (
www.travel-ticker.com ), a leading inspirational travel website, today revealed its Summer 2012 Where To Go Now & How Guide. Each season, the Travel-Ticker team uses its years of experience traveling the globe and hunting for great bargains to provide travelers with the inside scoop, identifying the destinations that offer the best overall experience and value. To create the guide, the experts at Travel-Ticker.com examine local trends including weather, tourist traffic, entertainment options, cultural experiences and the available deals in each locale. This summer, the expert's analysis guides us to Catalina, Riviera Maya, San Francisco, South Africa and Washington, DC.
"Summer is peak season for many destinations because it's the time when many of us take our big vacation for the year. This uptick in demand can quickly drive prices up," said L. Jasmine Kim, general manager of Travel-Ticker.com. "So, knowing which destinations offer the best experience without the high price tag is even more crucial. Luckily, creating a memorable and affordable summer getaway is completely in reach with a few insider tips on where to look."
From white sandy beaches to urban locales or exotic outdoor destinations, Travel-Ticker.com's Summer 2012 Where To Go Now & How Guide features five destinations that fit a variety of travelers' budgets and personalities:
1. San Francisco - Mild temperatures meet great summer savings
Why Now: San Francisco, known for its temperate weather during the summer months, is ideal for travelers looking to escape the heat that the season brings to so many other cities. Late summer is the best time to visit the City by the Bay as it tends to provide a bit more warmth and sunshine, but never scorching temperatures. Summer 2013 is expected to be quite expensive as The America's Cup will be hosted by the city, so take advantage of the lower prices that are available this year.
Value: The hotel rates in the peak season only average $10 higher than in the off-season, so for those seeking a city steeped in history that offers a family-friendly cultural experience, it's definitely worth the splurge for your summer vacation. Hotel rates average from $112 per night, but travel Tuesday through Thursday for even greater savings.
How: Up to 25% off 4-star San Francisco hotel in Union Square -- $165+: Downtown luxury meets discounted rates. Centrally located in Union Square, the 4-star Sir Francis Drake Hotel in San Francisco has renovated rooms for as little as $165, May 10-August 20.
2. Catalina Island - Sail into summer savings
Why Now: Southern California's beautiful Catalina Island is a unique summer destination for many, especially families and couples. Even better, during the summer it's also the perfect combo of great weather and savings. It is the island's peak season, but with so many travelers also visiting other nearby popular cities, deals tend to be plentiful. Once you arrive to the island, plan to relax and enjoy an abundance of outdoor activities, including sailing, hiking and for the more adventurous souls, scuba diving.
Value: Catalina Island is generally more affordable in the summer and travelers can save anywhere from 20-55 percent off their hotel stay as compared to fall. Hotel rates average from $90 per person, per night, including roundtrip ferries to/from Long Beach.
How: Top-rated Catalina Island hotel w/breakfast and more, $140+: Just discounted and top-rated on TripAdvisor. Midweek stays at Pavilion Hotel on Catalina Island start at $140 per person, per night. Weekends are $20 more. Breakfast, tours, and more are included. Travel May 4-October 21.
3. Washington, DC - Peak season, but hot summer deals
Why Now: As the city is gearing up for election season in the fall, the time to visit DC to score a deal is actually during the peak summer season. Fall is typically the season when DC see's lower prices, but this year many people will plan to visit to be part of the activities circling the election, and that will undoubtedly drive prices up. If you don't mind the heat, DC offers a rich cultural experience for all types of travelers and is expected to be quite the bargain over the summer, especially on weekends. The city also provides plenty of free entertainment, including shows and live concerts. Some museums also offer free entrance on a dedicated day of the week (i.e. Tuesdays are free at the National Museum of Natural History's Butterfly Pavilion).
Value: Rates in the summer will get as low as $69. In fall, rates for similar hotels will run you at least $129 - that's a 45% savings. Travelers will find the best value at luxury properties as they tend to price quite competitively this time of year.
How: Washington, DC: 20% off downtown hotel with WiFi -- $109+: Major savings in the heart of DC. Stay at Washington Plaza for as little as $109 per night, plus get complimentary WiFi. We found the lowest rates on select dates, July-September. Stay now-June for as little as $119.
4. Riviera Maya - Soak up sun and stellar deals in the Mexican Riviera
Why Now: Travelers seeking warm summer sunshine, white sandy beaches and clear blue waters should travel to the Rivera Maya. The summer months are shoulder season for this beach paradise, resulting in stellar deals and less crowds. And, with many resorts recently popping up in the area, prices this year should be even lower. Be sure to plan a trip earlier in summer to beat the storms that tend to roll in as we get closer to fall.
Value: Hotel rates in Cancun average $93 per person, per night, which are the lowest prices all year long. By traveling during summer, you'll not only score a savings up to 50 percent, but you'll also miss hurricane season.
How: Riviera Maya: 35% off upscale all-inclusive resort -- from $69: Eat, sleep, swim, or do nothing all day -- for 35% less. The beachfront, all-inclusive Catalonia Riviera Maya Resort & Spa starts at just $69 per person, per night. Upgrade your stay for as little as $10 more. Travel now-October 31.
5. South Africa - Bask in a tropics of great savings
Why Now: Being a subtropical location in the southern hemisphere, South Africa sees its winter and off-season run from April through September, but that does not mean cold temperatures. What it does mean is great deals coupled with sunny, dry days and pleasantly crisp nights. The KwaZulu-Natal coast and Lowveld of Mpumalanga and Limpopo provinces offer especially beautiful weather with warm, sunny days and virtually no wind or rain. For the more adventuresome, these months are also perfect to observe South Africa's prosperous wildlife as vegetation is sparse during this time of year making it a great time for safaris.
Value: Travelers can save hundreds on packages to South Africa when they go in late summer, saving about $970 per person or $1,970 per couple, when compared to winter months. That savings, combined with the best safari game viewing, makes the decision to visit South Africa this summer an easy one.
How: South Africa tour with air, hotels, safaris, and meals -- $2,949+: Get traveling, get wild, get saving. Gate 1 Travel has a 10-night trip to South Africa that includes flights, hotels, safaris, a cruise, 15 meals, and tours from $2,949 in August and September.
*Prices are per person or per night, based on availability, and do not include additional taxes and fees. Other restrictions may apply. Please see website for more details.
About Travel-Ticker.comTravel-Ticker is an online inspirational travel website that is home to some of the best handpicked, insider deals at many of the world's favorite destinations. With an ear to the ground and an eye for the unique, Travel-Ticker's experts provide users with a geo-targeted platform and a weekly newsletter to browse for researched travel bargains, the latest travel trends, and editorial insight. Travel-Ticker is an independent business unit of The Hotwire Group. For more information, visit us at
www.travel-ticker.com and join us on Twitter (@travel_ticker) and Facebook. In addition to Travel-Ticker, The Hotwire Group of websites includes:
www.hotwire.com ,
www.travel-ticker.com and
www.carrentals.com .
Travel Ticker and the Travel-Ticker logo are either registered trademarks or trademarks of Hotwire, Inc. in the U.S. and/or other countries. All other trademarks are property of their respective owners. © 2012 Hotwire, Inc. All rights reserved. CST# 2053390-40
Contact:Jina Michael Atomic PR(323) 648-5428jina@atomicpr.com
SOURCE Travel-Ticker.com
Copyright (C) 2012 PR Newswire. All rights reserved
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Mobiquity Partners With FlightView to Deliver Five-Star Mobile Travel Experience
BOSTON, MA, May 02, 2012 (MARKETWIRE via COMTEX) --
Mobiquity, a professional services firm creating innovative and
engaging enterprise-class mobile solutions that drive business value,
is partnering with FlightView, the leading provider of real-time
flight information and mobile solutions for the aviation and travel
industry, to help airlines and other travel companies drive
incremental revenue and customer loyalty through next-generation
mobile applications. The two companies will both exhibit at the Low
Cost Airlines World Americas 2012 trade show, taking place May 3-4 in
Miami, Fla.
Mobile technology is transforming the travel experience by providing
new ways for companies to interact with consumers and deliver
tailored information. Today's always-connected traveler increasingly
demands information and services that simplify the planning, booking
and traveling experience.
The new partnership combines two of the most innovative players in
the mobile travel market. Mobiquity's clients include Conde Nast
Traveler with its Cruise Finder app, Garmin, Marriott,
InterContinental Hotel Group and WestJet. FlightView's travel
customers include United Airlines, JetBlue, Southwest Airlines,
Expedia and Royal Caribbean -- along with more than 100 airports
worldwide.
Mobiquity and FlightView will deliver a "five-star" mobile experience
that includes:
-- An engaging and intuitive user experience with innovative design,
colors and images that "pop," simple navigation and content that is
informative, interactive and easy to consume.
-- Accurate and timely information that is reliable, clear, consistent,
actionable and available 24/7.
-- Interactive, tiered functionality that caters to high-value customers
by offering travelers visibility to loyalty accounts and trip
information, and pushes alerts on ticket upgrades, lounge passes, and
coupons.
-- Key integration with airline systems (HP Shares, Sabre) and partners.
For airline systems, this includes profile information, ticket
purchases, loyalty programs, upgrades, online check-in, electronic
boarding passes and in-flight services. For airline partners,
capabilities include airport services, social media, ground
transportation and hotel bookings.
-- Best-in-class mobile capabilities, including location-based
functionality, push notifications, calendar integration, map &
directions, phone/text/email, and, camera & photos.
What People are Saying:
"Travel organizations are realizing the huge
potential of mobile to drive incremental revenue," said Bill Seibel,
Founder and CEO of Mobiquity. "These companies are looking at the
power of mobile for increasing loyalty, upsell opportunities like
baggage checking, upgrades and other purchases. Through our
partnership with FlightView and its deep expertise in the airline
industry, our two companies will offer an unmatched range of services
and capabilities for companies seeking a differentiator in this
competitive market."
"Competition in the airline industry is fierce, making it critical
that carriers invest heavily in customer loyalty," said Mike
Benjamin, CEO of FlightView. "By partnering with Mobiquity, we are
enabling airlines to offer their travelers the most advanced mobile
experience available -- while helping them drive revenue in the
process."
About Flightview
FlightView is the leading provider of accurate,
real-time flight information solutions for the aviation and travel
industries. FlightView was started in 2008 when CEO Mike Benjamin
brought a new management and technology team to RLM Software, the
first recipient of the ASDI (FAA radar) data feed and long-time
consultant to the FAA. With a new focus on delivering actionable
flight information across the full range of media platforms,
FlightView was born. Since then, FlightView's customer list has grown
to include over 120 Airports, several major and mid-sized airlines
and other travel related customers who employ FlightView information
in digital displays, Web and mobile sites, native apps, and other
uses. FlightView mobile products were launched starting in 2009 and
our native apps for the iPhone, Android, Blackberry and Palm
platforms have logged over 1M downloads. FlightView is located in
Boston Massachusetts. To learn more, please visit FlightView.com.
About Mobiquity
Mobiquity is a professional services firm working
with the Global 2000 to design, build deploy and manage
enterprise-class mobile solutions. With Mobiquity, clients benefit
from the breadth and depth of our cross-disciplinary teams to unleash
the power of mobile. Our strategists map out how mobile technology
can drive business innovation. Our user-experience designers create
apps that engage the consumer and promote the brand. And our
development team builds integrated business solutions that drive
success. Co-founded by consulting veteran Bill Seibel (COO, Cambridge
Technology Partners, CEO, ZEFER) and leading mobile strategist Dr.
Scott Snyder (president, Breakthru Advisors; CEO and president,
Decision Strategies International), Mobiquity has teamed the leaders
from the client-server and Internet waves with those driving
innovation in mobile today. To learn more, visit
www.mobiquityinc.com .
Media Contacts:
Colleen Irish
For Mobiquity
617-842-1511
Email Contact
Greg Hakim
For FlightView
(617) 969-9192
Email Contact
SOURCE: Mobiquity
http://www2.marketwire.com/mw/emailprcntct?id=9ADF240934EF7BF5
http://www2.marketwire.com/mw/emailprcntct?id=FDC64578777FA1D5
Copyright 2012 Marketwire, Inc., All rights reserved.
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Travel Leaders Corporate Offers Departure from the Ordinary through Launch of …
CORAL GABLES, Fla., May 02, 2012 (BUSINESS WIRE) --
Travel Leaders Corporate is revolutionizing corporate business travel
with the launch of its long-anticipated branded mobile application,
"Beacon." Unlike other industry mobile solutions, Beacon provides
interactive, personalized access to Travel Leaders Corporate's agents
and support specialists. Trained professionals work behind the scenes to
proactively monitor flights and if necessary, re-accommodate travelers
even when they're traveling in the air. This new app is immediately
available for Android, Blackberry, and iPhone mobile devices.
"It's not just technology that sets our Beacon mobile app apart, but the
people behind it. When weather delays or other uncontrollable events
like schedule changes, gate changes, or cancellations occur that may
prevent corporate travelers from reaching their destinations, the Travel
Leaders Corporate support team is there providing professional care
behind the scenes," said Travel Leaders Corporate President David
Holyoke. "With Beacon, you step off the plane and you're already taken
care of. Your trip continues with minimal disruption. That's taking care
of the corporate client and protecting their business."
Beacon works differently than typical mobile travel apps. As soon as a
Travel Leaders Corporate agent is aware of a change or disruption, they
immediately send a notification to their client's mobile device with an
updated itinerary. Whenever necessary, the agent automatically
rebooks the traveler on the next available flight. Upon landing, the
client will see the notification and can access virtual support at the
push of a button. If additional assistance is required, the client has
the option of calling or emailing Travel Leaders Corporate 24 hours a
day, seven-days a week.
The mobile aspect of Beacon includes several other impressive features
including:
--
Real-time itinerary updates;
--
The ability to view past, current and future trips;
--
Online flight check-in;
--
Weather updates; and
--
Access to maps built into each trip itinerary.
To maximize convenience and efficiency, Beacon synchronizes travelers'
itineraries to their mobile calendars and sends customizable personal
alerts and reminders. When viewing their itineraries, clients also have
the option of contacting their hotel directly upon arrival to coordinate
ground transportation.
"Where other apps fall short is in merely sending alerts to travelers.
That still places the responsibility on the traveler to figure out what
his or her next steps are, and it's simply not enough," said Travel
Leaders Corporate Senior Director of Central Services and Technology,
Helen Enriquez. "Beacon automatically takes the extra steps necessary
and removes the hassle of standing in long lines or calling a nameless,
faceless call center in hopes of being rebooked."
Travel Leaders Corporate's Beacon mobile app is an enhancement to its
existing Beacon suite which clients have been using for several years.
High-end corporate clients have the option to register for the Beacon
program as part of their company's overall service package. With
registration, clients can gain access the mobile application. The app
works for all Travel Leaders Corporate clients, including those who do
not utilize an online booking tool for travel reservations.
If you're not a Travel Leaders Corporate client and would like to take
advantage of personalized service and cutting-edge corporate business
travel solutions that are a departure from the ordinary -- including
Beacon -- email info_corporate@travelleaders.com
or call 800-721-0807.
Travel Leaders Corporate is part of Travel Leaders Group, which
ranks as the #1 corporate travel management company by Business
Travel News and had sales of nearly $17 billion in 2011. Travel
Leaders Corporate's consultative approach builds a travel program around
clients' specific needs, rather than requiring them to conform to
standardized processes. Unlike mega-agencies, Travel Leaders Corporate
provides personalized service that can't be matched in nameless,
faceless call centers. At Travel Leaders Corporate, each client is
served by a dedicated team of U.S.-based agents assigned to each
account. With a reputation built on reliability and a commitment to
excellence, Travel Leaders Corporate offers its clients industry-leading
products and services, and continuously seeks higher levels of
performance. With its headquarters in Coral Gables, FL, and with
employees in more than 120 cities across the United States, Travel
Leaders Corporate is a forward-thinking, innovative company with a focus
on continually improving the customer experience. It's the people of
Travel Leaders Corporate that set it apart as a Departure from the
Ordinary.
www.travelleaderscorp.com .
SOURCE: Travel Leaders
Travel Leaders Corporate
Matt Johnson, 763-383-5643
mjohnson@travelleaders.com
Copyright Business Wire 2012
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Egencia Completes Acquisition Of Nordic Travel Management Company VIA Travel
BELLEVUE, Wash., May 3, 2012 /PRNewswire via COMTEX/ --
Egencia, an Expedia, Inc.
/quotes/zigman/7619798/quotes/nls/expe EXPE
+1.95%
company, announced today that it completed the acquisition of VIA Travel, the largest travel management company in the Nordics. VIA Travel® is now named VIA Egencia(TM).
"The future of corporate travel is about innovation on a global scale. The next 10 years in our industry will be shaped by companies that combine service, scale and local market presence with innovation-driven technology solutions," said Rob Greyber, President, Egencia.
Christophe Peymirat, Senior Vice President, Egencia EMEA, APAC, added, "With the acquisition of VIA Travel, Egencia is positioned to push the boundaries of the business travel industry, and to better serve our customers today and tomorrow."
With this acquisition, Egencia® now has a presence in over 50 countries across the globe and will leverage the power of both companies to accelerate its pace of technology innovation in the years to come.
"We're extremely excited to join the Egencia family. In combining the strengths of both organizations, we're shaping what is to become one of the industry's premier travel management companies," said Espen Asheim, Senior Vice President, Egencia Nordics & Business Integration. "In this deal, everyone wins. Our employees benefit by being part of a world-class business community, and our customers benefit by gaining access to a truly unmatched selection of travel products and services."
The acquisition closed April 27, 2012. Additional terms were not disclosed.
About Egencia, an Expedia, Inc. Company
Egencia is the fifth largest travel management company in the world. As part of Expedia, Inc., the world's largest travel marketplace, Egencia helps businesses get ahead by offering the only truly integrated corporate travel service. Egencia's industry expertise helps drive results that matter, delivering meaningful advancements that have a real impact. By combining a powerful offline and online service, Egencia delivers a complete corporate travel offering supported by global market expertise and a best-in-class technology platform. For more information, go to
www.egencia.com .
About Expedia, Inc.
Expedia, Inc. is the largest online travel company in the world, with an extensive brand portfolio that includes some of the world's leading online travel brands, including:
Expedia.com®, the world's largest full service online travel agency, with localized sites in 30 countries
Hotels.com®, the hotel specialist with sites in more than 60 countries
Leading discount travel site Hotwire®, which offers opaque deals in nine countries on its eight sites in North America and Europe
Egencia®, the world's fifth largest corporate travel management company
China's second largest booking site eLong(TM)
Leading agency hotel company Venere.com®
Destination services and activities provider Expedia Local Expert®; and
Luxury travel specialist Classic Vacations®
The company delivers consumers value in leisure and business travel, drives incremental demand and direct bookings to travel suppliers, and provides advertisers the opportunity to reach a highly valuable audience of in-market travel consumers through Expedia Media Solutions. Expedia also powers bookings for some of the world's leading airlines and hotels, top consumer brands, high traffic websites, and thousands of active affiliates through Expedia® Affiliate Network. For corporate and industry news and views, visit us at
www.expediainc.com or follow us on Twitter @expediainc.
Egencia and the Egencia logo are either registered trademarks or trademarks of Expedia, Inc. in the U.S. and/or other countries. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.© 2012 Egencia, LLC. All rights reserved. CST # 2083922-50
SOURCE Egencia
Copyright (C) 2012 PR Newswire. All rights reserved
/quotes/zigman/7619798/quotes/nls/expe
Add to portfolio
EXPE
Expedia Inc.
US
: U.S.: Nasdaq
$
42.45
+0.81
+1.95%
Volume: 4.09M
May 2, 2012 4:00p
P/E Ratio24.14
Dividend Yield0.85%
Market Cap$5.29 billion
Rev. per Employee$363,219
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