tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28926935222361496602024-03-04T14:23:59.435-06:00elitepro-travelThis is a blog with information on elite benefits for travelers holding elite status. Those of us that like to have an organized, constant but sophisticated hospitality experience will find interesting anecdotes.eliteprohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12418190934363691949noreply@blogger.comBlogger184125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892693522236149660.post-5136228692107629332020-03-26T15:40:00.002-05:002020-03-26T15:43:23.059-05:00Testing for fever on arrival in the USA<br />
I was <span style="font-family: "&quot" , serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #001000;">t<span style="line-height: 107%;">ested for Corona fever on arrival in the USA. </span></span></span></span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "&quot" , serif; font-size: 13.0pt; line-height: 107%;">This was the second time that my temperature
has been measured by health workers in protective masks and coveralls, on
arrival at an airport. (H1N1 was the first.)</span><span style="color: #333333; font-size: 13.0pt; line-height: 107%;"></span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "&quot" , serif; font-size: 13.0pt; line-height: 107%;">The airport is like a ghost town! I have never
seen the New York EWR Polaris lounge so empty! It is usually packed full.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>United closed the Polaris lounge on the 20th
March and I took this photo on the last day. The other Club lounges closed
prior to that. </span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghqWirwxzxNTM9jkAa9Pwsp1cxA5QuMGD6VPvp3D-JGzr1qHZDVIoWQSW_jEdTNo-4XLdaRa51oCT3D4aGwm55W_BsWX7DdA8ESpWsBOg4L8IBD9V2IUYwHIi6LfCyTHe7nv3PZShFhIfR/s1600/polaris.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="414" data-original-width="742" height="223" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghqWirwxzxNTM9jkAa9Pwsp1cxA5QuMGD6VPvp3D-JGzr1qHZDVIoWQSW_jEdTNo-4XLdaRa51oCT3D4aGwm55W_BsWX7DdA8ESpWsBOg4L8IBD9V2IUYwHIi6LfCyTHe7nv3PZShFhIfR/s400/polaris.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "&quot" , serif; font-size: 13.0pt; line-height: 107%;">These are unprecedented times where
circumstances continue to evolve, due to COVID-19. American Airlines have also closed all their
Flagship Lounges and Flagship First Dining, in addition to the Admirals Club
closures but, American will maintain Admirals Club front desk customer service
at some USA. airports and at London (LHR). </span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCnfMuWCZydRl0DjXXQRzPktY1fqdLsBA06oslEjy9JwLpNtVRQ4rgBo9aA2X6mBrkl1DCeYyOHysdzXqH6ETd-CNcg4qtzYYpfGplW3ghFGLZlxxgOquKuNrM_jzlf3TWni1XfeLREuw6/s1600/ba+elite.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="710" data-original-width="1129" height="251" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCnfMuWCZydRl0DjXXQRzPktY1fqdLsBA06oslEjy9JwLpNtVRQ4rgBo9aA2X6mBrkl1DCeYyOHysdzXqH6ETd-CNcg4qtzYYpfGplW3ghFGLZlxxgOquKuNrM_jzlf3TWni1XfeLREuw6/s400/ba+elite.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "&quot" , serif; font-size: 13.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
<br />
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "&quot" , serif; font-size: 13.0pt; line-height: 107%;">The British Airways Business lounge was open
in Amsterdam and London. It’s available for passengers who are: -flying on a
scheduled British Airways flight in First or business (Club World or Club Europe
class) Also to Silver & Gold Elite Members of the British Airways Executive
Club. Food or drinks will not be available to purchase onboard short haul BA flights. However, BA will be offering free “light refreshments” and water.
<br />
</span><br />
<div style="margin-top: 0in;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "&quot" , serif; font-size: 13.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: "segoe ui" , sans-serif;">Most
airlines are giving you a flexibility waiver. They require you to cancel but
Delta is the exception, they will just refund you if you don’t turn up. United
is not giving refunds.</span></span></div>
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "&quot" , serif; font-size: 13.0pt; line-height: 107%;">
</span>
<br />
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "&quot" , serif; font-size: 13.0pt; line-height: 107%;">United Airlines will cut International flights
by 95% in April. I had hoped that Corona Virus would be a distant memory by
April. - I can't even remember when H1N1 swept across the globe in 2009, with
12,000 deaths. All I remember was that they checked our temperatures on arrival
at Johannesburg airport and they did the same, last week when I arrived at NYC
Newark airport. They are able to maintain a distance while holding the
apparatus a couple of feet away to check for fevers.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "&quot" , serif; font-size: 13.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Thank God!, that we got passed that. It was super stress, not knowing if I would be allowed to board my next domestic flight after
arriving in NYC. Talk about quarantine in Newark was worrying, so I was
relieved that they let us fly home and self-quarantine. This is the notice I was given at the airport:</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKKQ3FFWDq1OC23QefdwVY_3OTYmGsRjyrz1TENwc96CJd7g1DGVt2MPL3jAsKC5YbUFXANsMEcg-Z8X8GRG0l9n8mY1BjqdjAjhWn3sLg86vNj2OJR5dzV8Zy84iM3tdnWCssGLtRboHI/s1600/cdc-corona+virus.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1150" data-original-width="1600" height="286" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKKQ3FFWDq1OC23QefdwVY_3OTYmGsRjyrz1TENwc96CJd7g1DGVt2MPL3jAsKC5YbUFXANsMEcg-Z8X8GRG0l9n8mY1BjqdjAjhWn3sLg86vNj2OJR5dzV8Zy84iM3tdnWCssGLtRboHI/s400/cdc-corona+virus.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "&quot" , serif; font-size: 13.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
<b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike>eliteprohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12418190934363691949noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892693522236149660.post-47320272523147657062020-03-25T17:43:00.000-05:002020-03-25T18:09:04.498-05:00Chaos as Corona, COVID-19 hits airports <span style="font-size: large;">There is an eerie feeling, walking through a deserted airport, with fear that I would not be able to board the 4 flights to get home. It was like a pack of cards behind me as the flights from Europe then the U.K. and Ireland were cancelled and collapsed as I rushed anxiously. I was in Holland when I heard that flights had been halted between Europe but not yet the UK, so I thought my flight to London and on to Belfast would be okay. Then came the news that the White House said the travel ban would extend to United Kingdom and Ireland. Then they said that the USA would be closed!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKBUFz2C3yBVaS1C8kuf9Tt-GgID0euX0AUnxzQ2mjsGUpo-hFNhClGzpEsSVmEUQ35q5_HSYCV2D9SH5eQYxK-0AMCCD8tHQKK_h4k0N6MmzQljCRWW1obovcXBm25Q1ifYtG2MoUWUt-/s1600/ams-bike.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1487" data-original-width="1190" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKBUFz2C3yBVaS1C8kuf9Tt-GgID0euX0AUnxzQ2mjsGUpo-hFNhClGzpEsSVmEUQ35q5_HSYCV2D9SH5eQYxK-0AMCCD8tHQKK_h4k0N6MmzQljCRWW1obovcXBm25Q1ifYtG2MoUWUt-/s320/ams-bike.jpg" width="256" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">I was staying at the Holiday Inn in Leiden, last week, becoming increasingly anxious about the unprecedented hysteria that we are experiencing in this global, crisis caused by the Chinese Coronavirus Pandemic COVID-19. This was not alleviated when I saw that my hotel in Holland had signs in English and Chinese. I assume that this is because many Chinese people like to visit the Medical Museum near the hotel. The Anatomical Museum of medical and biomedical LUMC is near the University of Leiden in the Netherlands. Luckily, I did not see more than 3 other guests staying there. But the 3 of them, all sat at breakfast tables next to mine when we could have been spaced 10 yards apart. The front desk was taped off like a crime scene, to prevent guests from getting too close to the receptionist. I was instructed to use the hand sanitizer before handing her my credit card. Wish I’d had tape to tape of my breakfast table ….</span><br />
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilOYBLC7j4j-8pbNGArXcM-AHkTcrlaozLCZDc74i3ertvIzFGJpeIZLmVfGkjupb17lArrXD-uwJ9uLx41i3s75wXYOq1Mk-tEHHPvmlIwvPCF5RKB5a79dRyHxt2zsXSdcjCE7C8_iBp/s1600/ams-tape.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="793" data-original-width="1179" height="268" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilOYBLC7j4j-8pbNGArXcM-AHkTcrlaozLCZDc74i3ertvIzFGJpeIZLmVfGkjupb17lArrXD-uwJ9uLx41i3s75wXYOq1Mk-tEHHPvmlIwvPCF5RKB5a79dRyHxt2zsXSdcjCE7C8_iBp/s400/ams-tape.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">The next night I moved to the Crowne Plaza Hotel at Amsterdam airport, where I wondered if I would have to rent a bicycle to cycle to the Eurostar to London. The news that all flights to the USA from Europe had been cancelled, made me anxious, feeling envious of my friends experiencing cabin fever, while I was franticly trying to get home. I was worried that I would not be able to get on my flight to Heathrow Airport and then on to Belfast.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz4fxjzkl9CkDM4sr2W-6epc9fq3vdMkatKZKjas39nKZeJttvIjRXszpJSBB7GCOSqCx3Pi-DjmW8mvsZJiBNOShbvwGvN9xW79Xm_nB0qfEq_6V4XqDRpw8GSFCb0emCtnH26oem2DKE/s1600/ams-airport.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="838" data-original-width="1600" height="207" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz4fxjzkl9CkDM4sr2W-6epc9fq3vdMkatKZKjas39nKZeJttvIjRXszpJSBB7GCOSqCx3Pi-DjmW8mvsZJiBNOShbvwGvN9xW79Xm_nB0qfEq_6V4XqDRpw8GSFCb0emCtnH26oem2DKE/s400/ams-airport.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">At the airport, people were unusually subdued, somber as someone mentioned that this is the Apocalypse. I do feel like I am living through a war as President Trump says the U.S. and Mexico will close border to non-essential travel amid the coronavirus. Trump also invoked the Defense Production Act to get critical medical supplies. We are in a much better position than Europe and other countries because we have 32 ventilators per 1,000 US citizens and the UK only has one, according to Senator John Barrasso . I’m optimistic that the world has survived the Spanish Flu, West Nile Virus, Zika. Ebola. (Note; All named for places). </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">The hotel to Amsterdam Airport bus blocked the first 2 rows of seats &; as well as the Translink bus I took to Dublin, does not allow people to sit near the driver as Coronavirus cases top 15,000 in US. and we learn a new term “Social-Distancing".</span><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<br />
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Unfortunately, Airport managers are slow to learn about “Social distancing”. Schiphol Airport always has lines for immigration, even though many of the checks are done by machines. This time it was a Mega mess! Even though there were only a few passengers, they huddled us all together, confined in snake lines at immigration control. It was a confined, claustrophobic space, with a low ceiling. Appalling to do this at a time when social distancing is required.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
The same happened at Dublin Airport! United told us to get to the airport at 6 am then we had to line up, all packed together in a small space for an hour, waiting for US customs to open, then they did not even let us clear customs in Dublin. We had to clear customs in EWR. The USA customs officials simply asked us a couple of questions and those that did not fit the criteria, were taken to a back room.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">United are to end all long-haul flying amid this pandemic. The Star Alliance carrier will suspend 95% of its international flying, including all of its flights to Africa, Asia-Pacific, Europe and South America by March 28, CEO Munoz that “even more cost-cutting measures will be required soon to keep our company afloat.” Sounds ominous. I hope that does not mean that they will not refund my ticket booked in May.</span><br />
<b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike>eliteprohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12418190934363691949noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892693522236149660.post-19276440583994079962019-10-06T22:30:00.001-05:002019-10-06T22:37:57.144-05:00Hawaii is the most popular use of miles<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br />
It is also the most popular place to fly to, on a mileage run, to make an elite threshold before the end of the year. A good use of miles for flights and also Hotel points. I enjoyed a real vacation on the Island, It's a long 8 hour flight, though! I'm used to flying from New York EWR to Europe on the 7 hour flight. I used to live in Hong Kong and often stopped in Honolulu to minimize the long flight to the USA. It's easy, clean and relaxing, so it was always a joy to arrive at HNL airport. Asia is just not as spacious, that's why its' relaxing to get away from intense, crowds to an island that is just one big resort.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioUANU1fjYdYkwhZ6I5x6IyFcpUFSknETDg7ZkzV2zQAJjRtfD65GQIlit9vPT913nO_1jCmuvXkKRAKuspA_8U9C8N7IhU9mRo4F20nsbBB12yhRenbhDLDzXqedx8cSjazyn50F6PQhZ/s1600/IMG-20191002-WA0000.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioUANU1fjYdYkwhZ6I5x6IyFcpUFSknETDg7ZkzV2zQAJjRtfD65GQIlit9vPT913nO_1jCmuvXkKRAKuspA_8U9C8N7IhU9mRo4F20nsbBB12yhRenbhDLDzXqedx8cSjazyn50F6PQhZ/s320/IMG-20191002-WA0000.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
It took a long time to check in to the at Sheraton Princess Kaiulani. They don't have a dedicated Elite check in area to speed up the process. Many Bonvoy hotels, do have a sign up, where elite members bypass the can bypass the line. Sheraton hotels used to treat their Elite members very well , but Since they merged with Marriott, Bonvoy Platinum benefits have diminished. Business hotels treat repeat visitors better than vacation hotels. Ther is no club Lounge for Elite members, but the Receptionist did give me a voucher for 2 free drinks at the bar, but when I got to the bar, the bar tender said that we would have to pay for one drink because the receptionist was mistaken. The Sheraton charges a $40 Resort fee, above the price quoted for a room, as most Honolulu hotels do. Even the Holiday Inn Express, charges an extra $25, which is great if you have kids, because they have activities for children, like a game room. I don't consider a hotel with just a pool, a resort. I expect a beach or golf course and Spa, before I feel I'm in a Resort, and the Sheraton is across the road from the beach with no Spa. The Sheraton claims that the fee includes MiFi rental and a GoPro Camera, that I was not interested in. Neither did I use the coupon booklet that it includes. Last time I was in Hawaii, I rented a car but this time I thought I would avoid the extra $35 a night self-parking fee.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
I decided to move to a hotel with closer beach access, the next night. This turned out to be a pleasant adventure on the 2 hour Public bus trip along the spectacular edge of the shore. It cost $6, but the return trip cost over $100 with Uber because the Island bus did not run due to a blocked road. (The Uber taxi took the route around the other side of the island.) This is the only place I have ever seen true free Range chickens! They wonder around all over the place and I'm curious how their owners can claim them? Dogs come if you call them, do hens? I'm a city girl... what more can I say....<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOY6-jlAaPDjCP66OCIHan6fbu444oViIfT0ZG1dgCRA_G4Hp_EQDhkpSSC7HhPaoH4KDa0oM5NCzgfrG-dzP72El_Bau2P9p3VBv5faMO-J0j-FDphqHn706g-bpgq04zV_Pr4Py39Wz5/s1600/IMG_20190915_112519_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="805" data-original-width="1600" height="201" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOY6-jlAaPDjCP66OCIHan6fbu444oViIfT0ZG1dgCRA_G4Hp_EQDhkpSSC7HhPaoH4KDa0oM5NCzgfrG-dzP72El_Bau2P9p3VBv5faMO-J0j-FDphqHn706g-bpgq04zV_Pr4Py39Wz5/s400/IMG_20190915_112519_1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
I was really glad that I moved to the Courtyard Hotel Oahu North Shore, it was much more like a Resort but there was no resort fee. they gave me Elite welcome gifts and delightful perks. The hotel is near several popular destinations, including the Polynesian Cultural Center, and Kaukauna Point. The rooms are spacious and the Bistro Hotel restaurant is nice, and there is a McDonalds, next door if you want a quick bite, after Kayaking with sea turtles . If you want to learn more about the Pacific Islands, the place to go and Wander through 42 acres of tropical Luau entertainment and restaurants at the Polynesian Cultural Center. I did go there when I had young children because there is so much to learn about the culture of music, dance, and traditions. I think the beach at the Courtyard, is one of the locations that they filmed the TV show "Lost" at, the palm trees are so high.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRj9xfyDrNAS75g1JGImp25EFWAoKW5Uaz-l7e6aQWZi2UEm-0dQB3481MyuTIFVc30tj5ZcQCOJ9ZIH4XAmPNThvre7FZK5_hEt6uIfMESghVrom9QxVzXw9jtgl0NgLSNEo5SXFmUbJo/s1600/hawaii+blog.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="415" data-original-width="441" height="301" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRj9xfyDrNAS75g1JGImp25EFWAoKW5Uaz-l7e6aQWZi2UEm-0dQB3481MyuTIFVc30tj5ZcQCOJ9ZIH4XAmPNThvre7FZK5_hEt6uIfMESghVrom9QxVzXw9jtgl0NgLSNEo5SXFmUbJo/s320/hawaii+blog.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
The Courtyard pool was a relaxing place and I was captivated, chatting to a man who had been a child when Pearl Harbor was attacked . He experienced that historic event, that unfolded on December 7, 1941. Tourists like to visit the USS Arizona Memorial, a deeply moving and emotional experience, but it was amazing to hear about it from someone that had been there.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjX49kWsPBcdJ4pnrVN6WyFy4QAA7erzjhI9CBwueXsN2WpU1b2A-2CSWDlXc9kn2zN4amw1YQwXp_d5dvdCKH0Tx0metlYb_c8XrysZi2A3d5pKl6X7auJ5OQfFzjffo3ms3r66dAXObW/s1600/IMG_20190915_094416.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjX49kWsPBcdJ4pnrVN6WyFy4QAA7erzjhI9CBwueXsN2WpU1b2A-2CSWDlXc9kn2zN4amw1YQwXp_d5dvdCKH0Tx0metlYb_c8XrysZi2A3d5pKl6X7auJ5OQfFzjffo3ms3r66dAXObW/s400/IMG_20190915_094416.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike><br />eliteprohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12418190934363691949noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892693522236149660.post-83420599724713264952019-04-20T12:20:00.000-05:002019-04-21T16:16:53.518-05:00It pays to be Loyal to Loyalty programsIt pays to be loyal to a Hotel chain. I’m Platinum elite with IHG, so they give me extra points for each stay:<br />
<blockquote>
<span style="background-color: white;">I got this email before I checked in: –“Thank you for being an IHG® Rewards Club Platinum Elite Member. This email has been sent to notify you that points have been deposited into your account by InterContinental . Point Deposit Type: Welcome Amenity<br /> Points Deposited: 600 “</span><br />
<span style="background-color: cyan;"></span><span style="background-color: white;"></span><br /></blockquote>
My Marriott Platinum status is more rewarding because it allows me to go to the club lounges, where I get free hors d'oeuvres and breakfast. IHG does not offer this perk. (Marriott Rewards is now called Marriott Bonvoy.) most Hotel loyalty programs get you to earn “elite level” benefits including room upgrades, bonuses, and gifts. <br />
<br />
It’s a lot of work to read the small print, but doing your homework can earn extra hotel or airline points. Occasionally, Hotels send out promotional offers to earn extra points. IHG Hotels sent me some good offers. Elite members' points don't expire, plus many other benefits of being elite. You can reach spire elite IHG status with 73,000 + qualifying points or 71 more qualifying nights. IHG elite status starts with Gold then Platinum then Spire Elite and the highest is InterContinental Ambassador status <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpEZwp8_Tuj0fjGrRA9wZGw_YRrl2vrWihtDlOFCy_mKaYJJ1V4upQKuPErqVQDY-hjmOy6GfCkd6BhKgCZY7gu99S66tH1FB9Ys5TWJkbwrLYdSYx_gZkVyI6UblyUMu-zA1_2ZiaZkM4/s1600/Picture+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="199" data-original-width="244" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpEZwp8_Tuj0fjGrRA9wZGw_YRrl2vrWihtDlOFCy_mKaYJJ1V4upQKuPErqVQDY-hjmOy6GfCkd6BhKgCZY7gu99S66tH1FB9Ys5TWJkbwrLYdSYx_gZkVyI6UblyUMu-zA1_2ZiaZkM4/s1600/Picture+1.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
I booked a Cash + POINTS stay because I had received an offer to get extra points for that Cash + POINTS stay offer, but, to my annoyance, I discovered after my stay that I did not get any points for this stay. It was a “Non-Qualifying Stay: Discounted Rate **” If I had seen the small print, I would not have made this reservation because the rates were cheap on that date and it would have counted as a stay:<br />
<blockquote>
<i><span style="background-color: white;">Non-Qualifying Stay: Discounted Rate ** † Non-qualified spending. Points are calculated based on total qualified spending less any applicable fees and taxes.<br /> ** Thanks for staying with us. Because your room rate was discounted, it's not eligible for points.</span></i></blockquote>
You can combine your points with cash to redeem for a Reward Night at your choice of IHG® hotels and resorts, starting at 5,000 points. BUT DON’T TRUST THE TRICK TO DO THIS, if you are doing this from an offer to earn extra points. You will not get any points for the paid (cash) part of the points & cash<br />
I actually like the least expensive brand the best. the Holiday Inn Express, because they have free breakfast. I stayed at the Glasgow Airport, Glasgow, last week and enjoyed the wonderful breakfast. It is a short walk from the airport to the Hotel and the Scottish Staff are all very nice. They even let me take my airport trolley up to my room, despite signs posted to the contrary. It’s also nice to have luxury at the InterContinental hotels, if I have time to enjoy it.<br />
IHG REWARDS CLUB offer points at these hotel BRANDS:<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjg5a_vvjvBtkAvAYiAlcvoxiMCrUzuwPK92dpswz1e9HhTdemJqXQITTet5B9pm4GhrrBcHmqZ_Uivjp7eb82sDs5HNuVP7vcfzhs3J1fqmHr69T7CMjVco3RUAZV6uqGVkhTEInDJBVz/s1600/ihg+brands.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="73" data-original-width="244" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjg5a_vvjvBtkAvAYiAlcvoxiMCrUzuwPK92dpswz1e9HhTdemJqXQITTet5B9pm4GhrrBcHmqZ_Uivjp7eb82sDs5HNuVP7vcfzhs3J1fqmHr69T7CMjVco3RUAZV6uqGVkhTEInDJBVz/s1600/ihg+brands.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAm-3F66-gNjow33DJgYNghvz9XSVCIzP24A1rhasnDcUGH19sPPr2DwyIyWnP7iaZi-iKz3t6Wvv5_N2Vlue4-KWPj5rjB3wNARdNk5phkTN2nMAFL1K2Ss-4qfaxn5w0lTPrWYUS4VmN/s1600/IMG_20190208_010050.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAm-3F66-gNjow33DJgYNghvz9XSVCIzP24A1rhasnDcUGH19sPPr2DwyIyWnP7iaZi-iKz3t6Wvv5_N2Vlue4-KWPj5rjB3wNARdNk5phkTN2nMAFL1K2Ss-4qfaxn5w0lTPrWYUS4VmN/s320/IMG_20190208_010050.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><div>
Glasgow Holiday Inn Express is a practical Hotel</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMpp10C8CTRZQ08q4nVbACd-W06AlEVxpbD4z38O8q2dp1hz_SEOS14XH_6SSfUD0Ye8hKEoNNVPnfRNyCFxzXbEvApaSPE5GSzk9M_MVQV2zzk9EK4WVtteputuxodkaogxv8YJ9FF8u_/s1600/IMG_20190208_124500937.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMpp10C8CTRZQ08q4nVbACd-W06AlEVxpbD4z38O8q2dp1hz_SEOS14XH_6SSfUD0Ye8hKEoNNVPnfRNyCFxzXbEvApaSPE5GSzk9M_MVQV2zzk9EK4WVtteputuxodkaogxv8YJ9FF8u_/s320/IMG_20190208_124500937.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike><br />eliteprohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12418190934363691949noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892693522236149660.post-9658312432020204672019-01-22T16:54:00.000-06:002019-01-23T09:50:23.315-06:00Listen up Elites; Change is in the AirMarriott Bonvoy is the new name for Marriott Rewards®, Elite program for Hotels : Marriott, The Ritz-Carlton Rewards® and SPG®.<br />
And United airlines has a new cabin.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJMuuOanh-7Kp_MKRq02TAyiBqY_HPi5HMuZio8pKecZBqoEhFZGfRN7Zb_YZJABG1rWSxChK_xgxgjnOMX-kh21pa0O0b2MWD73wRjC2gl6inwgSo8yriyFSKfHvLTy-yDmtYtoebUj4S/s1600/marriott+bonvoy.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="86" data-original-width="250" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJMuuOanh-7Kp_MKRq02TAyiBqY_HPi5HMuZio8pKecZBqoEhFZGfRN7Zb_YZJABG1rWSxChK_xgxgjnOMX-kh21pa0O0b2MWD73wRjC2gl6inwgSo8yriyFSKfHvLTy-yDmtYtoebUj4S/s1600/marriott+bonvoy.JPG" /></a></div>
<b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike><br />
<br />
I may be wrong. but I suspect this will be centered on Marriott hotels because I have had 2 SPG hotels move out of the program in the last month. I had booked The Sheraton Providence (PVD) airport, but it has left the group. Now yet another hotel that I stay at, is leaving. The Hotel Des Indes, a Starwood Luxury Collection property will join Leading Hotels of the World, which does not offer many benefits.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHvuWJGVnVBBbD6m8QbUYACkPWCz1EngGHwPWRvBi8QLff2wiE8F0lyAWkIbdAZWPx15LYoGIp5u3Qrg63doU72i7dzqupNEihIT9MK09r0_J_bTi3pI-gydLcnH3E7flltUBUlVMi_25W/s1600/united+seats.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="404" data-original-width="299" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHvuWJGVnVBBbD6m8QbUYACkPWCz1EngGHwPWRvBi8QLff2wiE8F0lyAWkIbdAZWPx15LYoGIp5u3Qrg63doU72i7dzqupNEihIT9MK09r0_J_bTi3pI-gydLcnH3E7flltUBUlVMi_25W/s320/united+seats.JPG" width="236" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Bad news for United Elite members, no more free upgrades to premium economy seats. <br />
<blockquote>
<div align="left">
</div>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<h3 style="text-align: center;">
United will launch Premium Plus on 20+ Long-Haul Routes. </h3>
</blockquote>
</blockquote>
<br />
in March Premium Plus will be a new service on international routes as United’s new full-service premium-economy cabin. Seating will have up to 19 inches of width, 38 inches of pitch and 6 inches of recline. Flights like the 787-10 Dreamliner, will come with Saks Fifth Ave. pillows and other amenities but fewer amenities than in first class or Polaris. Details Premium Plus Launch on 20+ Long-Haul Routes<br />
Not much to smile about, but you will be able to select Economy Plus free of charge on all connecting segments that do not have a premium-economy cabin. Sitting in the slightly larger than economy seat (economy Plus) on a flight to Newark from Houston if you are buying a ticket to Europe, is a long part of the trip to be in a seat 2 inches wider, but I suppose every inch counts. On the connecting flight, you won’t have Club lounge access on Premium Plus tickets. I know a couple of men whom, do not fit in economy, so will have to purchase the next class up. <br />
Premium Plus fare will be O,A,R,ON,RN fares. So if you want to fly cheap you can buy a basic economy fare but will not earn miles on your flight. The next up would be regular economy then Premium Plus then Polaris. I don’t think they will have first class on flights anymore, looks like it will be the 3 cabins on international flights. <br />
You can not use a Global Premier Upgrade (GPU) to upgrade from economy to business class on S, T, K, L, G or N fares, but you will be able to upgrade to seat in Premium Plus from the afore mentioned fares, (Except basic economy “N” fares).<br />
If you book a Premium Plus fare, you will be prioritized above all economy passengers for waitlisted Polaris business-class upgrades. Not that there is much chance of that upgrade happening.<b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike>eliteprohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12418190934363691949noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892693522236149660.post-18624809990126115522018-11-20T09:26:00.002-06:002018-11-20T10:34:17.152-06:00Tex-Mex Christmas<p>I always enjoy visiting San Antonio because the history fascinates me. I can imagine the Romantic 19th-century heroes like Bowie and Davy Crocket at the Alamo. The spellbinding Fort Building façade in the middle of the city, makes me appreciate those brave founding Texans. <p>Before I learnt to speak Spanish, I ate chili con carne on the other side of the world. I did not know that Carne, simply means “Meat”. The hot Beef and beans dish is eaten all over the world, but tastes the best in Texas. My favorite food to eat, on the River walk, is Texas-style barbecue brisket or Chili pepper meals, a cuisine originally popularized by Tejanas. They worked as wives or servants and many had their own food stalls. In the late 19th century, San Antonio was a booming railroad town and became famous for its open-air market stalls.<p><img width="378" height="194" title="IMG_0781" alt="IMG_0781" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho-sfkuwJVmrMHqt5hgNX8477U8tIvX63wGx-YzCsE10gC_-qfdojeSgOQjFIZ_lkM33Q8sWM7jEt1MYI0J8UrvogDMOo5y1_LNJW1iIhyGn-sW2sK3fHLR5DYHC2fNlyY26GM9_US8LzO/?imgmax=800" border="0"><p>Come see the holiday lights strung across the Alamo grounds. It just brings this amazing structure to a magical elevation! Christmas is the best time to visit the Alamo. Firstly, the weather is cooler in Texas this time of the year to walk around the grounds open until 7 p.m. daily . The lights will be up for the full month of December. We remember the Alamo and the sacrifice the Pioneer defenders made in 1836.<blockquote><p> Free events to enjoy with your family are: Alamo Christmas tree Lighting Ceremony | Nov. 30, 6 p.m. - 7 p.m. Enjoy hot chocolate, cookies and live music. <p>The next event is “A Homemade Christmas at the Alamo” on Dec. 1, 9 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., explore what the holiday season would have looked like on the Texas frontier! A Homemade Christmas will include period crafts for visitors of all ages, living history demonstrations, Christmas storytelling, music and more.<p>Fort Sam Houston - The U.S. Army in San Antonio | Dec. 1, free with registration This presentation will cover the history of Fort Sam Houston and the U.S. Army in San Antonio. Beginning with the initial arrival of the army in 1845, the talk will highlight the numerous army activities throughout downtown San Antonio.</p></blockquote><p>Tourists like to take a boat ride down the river to see the city center and eat at one of the superb TexMex restaurants on the river banks. I always toast the city with a Margarita.<p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOGd-HpsqlOFAic_WU73HjogteRWt2MPYDatBz1Hrru5p7eYSSvgIi-N7VoRaJUvBTpVCbGUBbomk4u5m_V3ybG-llXl8MZerKPIfLk3GV9RTWiBTyA_KiJBT3eh26oCeApc96mOtJ0vCj/s1600-h/image%255B9%255D"><img width="166" height="180" title="image" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="image" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIn3EbIbKvA5ko5hlvT3oGNOpx_wR_Srl_deIFqCG4cddWj9CxmBjGu-WD8GORVvGDWD7FQPHi41Cmpkf46BP4hNQaUzl4OM7UaJK7OfoXL7st0eVEekoVuKwT1CImwp-FLKTKfvSPkt5X/?imgmax=800" border="0"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJigQzl9qwKY_PDDV1eSOeOCDmTZKnQNcmHcb_xBC-ugP27WGskELm2WbWgKi4z4o7XH91Xdz8CFQF_KHayyx4HGlzRfu4hTp3xBgE4XjYDL3QtFXThbO_TMT4c36bY1fcOvx7d5gA_KG1/s1600-h/image%255B10%255D"><img width="195" height="138" title="image" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="image" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit3hwCyuFa3V69iV7O0MIcy0DGdEVJq013bMj5I_YV_d0Dc5SnA7pNzsybwqWGaLoRnhEDCe8FlpawLMtUFG3ziSborFLYtXEGez2C_q6a0sFm0VH3DfW2Hrvl9gGpkuNhlakEVBtIIvHY/?imgmax=800" border="0"></a><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxro_7Llzm_D-cJyA5M8nDeTcDYdJ3_MW9oyVoVZ8aWlUGdXqTKr_Y5kl3vm7Bodo7XSsLZzNShe-TVQw67uw6N7xIZN2KN7DTSDrNh-drXkzCIzmsZ-NU9PzBkTAa51EtCxRbQY_tl-Uh/s1600-h/image%255B2%255D"><br></a>eliteprohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12418190934363691949noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892693522236149660.post-7110683892478512782018-11-15T12:16:00.001-06:002018-11-15T12:16:48.806-06:00Christmas traditions<p>I bought my Christmas pudding at Heathrow Airport and wish I could buy my Christmas crackers in England, but will not because they are banned by TSA due to the tiny explosive.</p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIwhrneaJCvVOvG5yWH2rw5oLQP-0OeKp7PHputgSxyUBqOEd89Ea19c0EAWSI4CQW9kkao7ViWNdKKKwCflLcNYlrY5xwKAoqLQ0-OuaJrG5LevVLK0lIWGNJLDE9YwInCZdDXv9URI8q/s1600-h/image%255B2%255D"><img width="219" height="244" title="image" style="margin: 0px; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="image" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiASjI9H0rPmsEnsLvlLZmGKF9wsdg62YFL4y4MaQOBUgdN5q_H5F1a8-n_fHgksFpgjEpLUP_jrkaYrJNXi9ZA82loEx6SM4rXXk69liPZHGnVIfcOF6-bFpRLAzqJ_okJI6KlH3l-my5j/?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>I visit Holland every year for the 5<sup>th</sup> of December to enjoy the tradition of Sinterklaas with relatives. Then I get to celebrate Christmas on the 25th again in the USA.(I like to “double dip”). It is believed that the tradition of Santa (Father Christmas) originated in 340 A.C, when the Bishop of Myra gave sweets to children. The legend of the kindly Pope’s representative arriving is played out with much pageantry in Holland to this day. Sinterklaas arrives annually on a Saturday at the end of November. This event is broadcast on national Television, each year he arrives at a different city by boat. <br><img align="right" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3EJKYMzZhI_eicZU7uHy6xVVVejth8bEB4I-sDGEupMt8qJZUK_LNVJldOJ98-AmfczBYTlZtUwqatvtGnlfQGVTAe2n57hDbmSL9qvaErld96ze_3G8HpC4UzHLYcpCNot7QsPL76STu/s200/SINT.JPG"><br>Children watch the TV news every day in Holland, to hear about his voyage. One year the Sinterklaas Journal had lots of children in dismay because he almost landed, but his boat had to turn around because they forgot to bring his Staff, and had to turn around to go back for it. Luckily, we know from previous years, that no matter what sort of exploits happen, Sint arrives on time to deliver gifts on the 5<sup>th</sup> of December.In England, Xmas extends to “Boxing Day”.and in Holland they also have 2 days of Christmas celebrations.<br><img align="left" alt="Sinterklaas" src="https://pbs.twimg.com/profile_images/378800000748496285/935d041573918c3594fc561e2c8d07ec_bigger.jpeg"><br>I traveled to Amsterdam with some friends from America and enjoyed their astonishment at seeing Santa’s helpers because he is always accompanied by 2 fake black moors! They are both named “zwarte Piet”( Translated is: “black Peter”). I have to admit, it is the strangest thing to see 2 grown men in tights with black makeup covering their faces! Well worth hopping on a KLM flight to cross the pond to experience a Dutch Christmas, if you can keep a straight face. </p>eliteprohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12418190934363691949noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892693522236149660.post-37119180047290985972018-11-14T20:13:00.001-06:002018-11-15T09:09:28.199-06:00Discounted KLM rewards to Europe<p>I fly to Amsterdam often, despite trying to avoid Schiphol airport because it gets so congested and is frightening to stand in confined areas in long lines. The queues are always long at customs and the ceilings low..</p><p> KLM and Air France have really good discounted Promo Rewards starting at 3,600 miles from Paris to Rennes.
But the big deals are on long-haul flights, like from Seattle.
Get a discount of 50% on flights between Seattle and anywhere in Europe.NYC to Europe is also on sale.<br>
KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, (Koninklijke Luchtvaart Maatschappij), is a genuine Royal Airline! The King of Holland has been seen flying their 747s.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEja07tADFNhRwgTqI0VcMWxhQNhCSEm2P5D2D_bKQMMyDBEzn6WAdspYugHhsxOGciwgROdksHlJGL0iw4cOcjlEi4J3dTDkbYknc5l1en4bx6P6FNTBxdfu1Bin7CrtUvMjMeSQ1Eh8qRo/s1600-h/image4"><img width="449" height="156" title="image" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="image" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiH-c0mfkA7LCoxHJvp0k25KRQJMNhNABopSf3yQkQPuBs1sjVFgeeyW6gj21v0K02Pi0U9KwXwa_aSfuuAW_pCIR_ghhUZ7fDpfdVOhbIx03HMRrKSXHVXqdfgvVjDzEoOQxrdfLHy4Mvq/?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Flying Blue is the combined loyalty program of Air France, KLM and Delta are the major airlines.<br>
<br>
Flying Blue members receive more generous perks – and more Miles as they upgrade up to a higher elite status level and can enjoy the benefits on Sky Team airlines: </p><p>With 100 XP, you become Silver.<br>
With 180 XP, you become Gold.<br>With 300 XP, you become Platinum.</p><p>
The best perk with Platinum status is access to KLM lounges across the globe, with a guest of your choice.+
SkyPriority: priority access at the airport .Only Elite members (Silver, Gold, Platinum) can use reward tickets to book in First. <br>
You get up to 50% off with this miles Promo. (Promos are monthly offers) This Promo from Flying Blue has to be booked on 14th to 16th Nov 2018 then you have to fly between 1 Jan and 31st March 2019. Travel between anywhere in Europe and NYC in Economy one way costs 14,000 miles (and 28,000 for a round trip) Tax and fees cost $216 and up. So consider that they are advertising flights from New York to Barcelona for $319 and you don't need to use your miles.</p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKftciL2HomcSuGShHxGpfFLihTzbk33yBuS_iRWFnzSc4udHQgANDeZy2LuOLpoexOi6NubXddoxllg9Nf95qpbVN30kGzR-IdG0G_Me0GXnLcw0qAOKZgiPAlsptG7uvQqgeY00KwAQM/s1600-h/image2"><br></a></p>eliteprohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12418190934363691949noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892693522236149660.post-23078115935580772232018-06-12T14:44:00.001-05:002018-06-14T07:10:38.411-05:00Seafront Festival<p>I had a wonderful weekend in Northern Ireland, last weekend. The annual Sea Festival was packed with fun activities. </p><p>The Captain of a tall ship invited me on board his boat and I was thrilled to be on this fairy tale vessel. In fact he told me that it had been used in the Cinderella movie. </p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_ix5-_ScaOPbHtp2yf9QamoVCQac6khqtf0anxbOnHZMsqzGjAKgj2kvOG9xN3UO-N8lsvgN_g8iD6n-RxtB3PspHiwekgcgYcmir3GDhT4_bpbgZFqMEgD2HyEEuIG8vyBvJ9v2ZhqfL/s1600-h/tallship+bangor%255B9%255D"><img width="475" height="633" title="tallship bangor" style="border: 0px currentcolor; border-image: none; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="tallship bangor" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfOx8oKj9ApAsCeSuLuUyP_h16lsBdDDAq0OtmQIt8rV4uAoZ4jM1Y-xjx5-gyhTE-OaxpmwSutF1gFveINs4i20scJxwaRxwK_JeNKhEJDb2sS3909J4vtf7mRuZgI3FpMKPQe2SP4_xL/?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p><br></p><p>Tall ships, military vehicles, food, Street Theatre and live music filled the marina.</p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWtR8d1FOQoBphyphenhypheneFo3KFCnUTNhDNkMQd8cKoX9q38Fz6pt-T7zwwdhO_irSXTiwU1YuZDiWBgpke5EOBPIXFRzQ6DAaY24Ks6KIYh4oj_C504GueYZQesccEvS-K-YbtDibgdWeTIG65g/s1600-h/image%255B3%255D"><img width="479" height="192" title="image" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="image" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijz-cTv1Q50Tw3ekIm2v5AAgNsEi3j-sC09oxahlAdLRGUJ2pOB3hIU1ylq5ryh6hmdYIHQc-8LjDwIS89mRfRwJiaP7pRtYn0tIG6rmyp3qwyKauLtcP7lYws5t_OWSLWm949ApbC5VXN/?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>There was even an amazing display of aircraft: Aerosuperbatics Wingwalkers Aerial Display - The world's only aerobatic formation wingwalking team. Bangor maritime festival offered a host of activities including live music, food stalls, street theatre.</p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5NagX8DTTU7cNOeeyaXmxoZp1nE36Bbf6ALL3955KpKdbeQXWn1RIoAx_dsBj2LbeU-ftyqCPAqpfNcTczjOU8QjoWxo4a_JHRrdnXpJBRuyznBg2XjDI8V4vES6x3dBNKCJurFdPfWYp/s1600-h/sea+festifal+bangor+2%255B10%255D"><img width="475" height="356" title="sea festifal bangor 2" style="border: 0px currentcolor; border-image: none; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="sea festifal bangor 2" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIan32TZokoMVeUHDbU43AEkWfMHZzyxoPfNWz5ElrtlOWE4y3PxfF7536KjNls6uOJeRLpOa5ejK7NI672Zcxw526v3Z_4XJZj95qOijFT6dWfo3KKQyH6GMBiISbDSIqjrZ4P5QxSBPl/?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p><br></p><p>The giant 50ft inflatable whale was a hit with children and the pub was a hit with my group! </p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvoA5yu2JX2xne00t2kVKeJixNaKsqmDfVmbl8cZLDAmu0lyEt5O74hwkqkWtvmAwruWZy_WsjU-mhJ-qiIS2nbZuhwYIdKMpya1uOki6WkN4-o9wbj-PCqtB4qK-MCFt6L-1l8tQysBW9/s1600-h/sea+festifal+bangor+1%255B8%255D"><img width="475" height="356" title="sea festifal bangor 1" style="border: 0px currentcolor; border-image: none; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="sea festifal bangor 1" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXaA1lXrQKmfie7e9Wh3IsQaeiGlpLEXVqN0BGQGjxNXX9o1l2bI-uXlmfA8jflD-Vn2ySLxThgwnrm6Yb7XDPSiiYE0mYQYE3Zw6PA_o4YhJRKflZybjc0DhcIuK71c37w_msH7zTmH7b/?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>I will be back next year!</p>eliteprohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12418190934363691949noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892693522236149660.post-38214101368871367582018-06-12T14:03:00.001-05:002018-06-12T14:17:26.168-05:00Diminishing hotel benefits<p><br><p>I logged on to my Starwood account to begrudgingly book a Sheraton hotel and received this message, “Shine on. You're Gold for life” Well, Gold Elite for life has been de-valued by Marriott as a result of their Merger with SPG Starwood. I have both Gold Lifetime elite with Marriott and Gold Lifetime with SPG hotels and now I feel defrauded, so I will try to stay at more IHG or Hyatt Hotels.<p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2As3s6Vekic6Fm8wHqZxgCYyisTQuIYrKy7hb9moNbr212jK4P4h4JwqpAvKLFAtHZMoERGkmy2Ae1DBVttUbg2P4lja9ksUCRsF6gQnsv9VNOFeQtwbYBJAZqqe3oexHVcMH2F5HuD7B/s1600-h/image%255B2%255D"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNJnKeUnOy_dEt-FXavLN-69QwE-UBvomXiyLvEb7y8jNFIzYJtWvAHrWcjCQqWQNOjnPtxw8AUOuA2gwL_fK1gXpTEbNVL_Lp9HSyS6W-UtAopPdT3azQUgzKn45JTZmRpVVjSq1bfiaX/s1600-h/image%255B12%255D"><img width="479" height="304" title="image" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="image" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiHTPHaRHrAFzU_DO56iIt64fkMZHu-oHbCPI_bQJz1UA29gR_FaToMSTJwCFNxlt4wC4ztRDXwVLjrYpdZrLrk8aLnHeTGqamotkVMm7CrDKNbnf3nC53YxHPHyVnYdJxHGrpnqvXtT42/?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></a><p>The Marriott and SPG merger, will be effective from August 2018.This will devalue Gold Elite members because they will lose the most important benefit. Club Lounge access (Executive Lounge) This, most valuable benefit will no longer be available to Gold. More Elite Tiers will be created, so if you thought that you were a top Elite, you are now made aware that you have been moved back down the ladder and duped into accumulating Elite status.. Marriott Rewards, Starwood Preferred Guest and Ritz-Carlton Rewards will merge into one program this August. Sure, you will need fewer points to attain Elite Status, because Starwood had previously required fewer points for Elites. I did prefer the benefits offered by Starwood. Under the current program Marriott Gold Elites achieve Platinum status at 75 nights, now the Platinum Elite tier costs 50 nights, but they are adding more tiers above that.<p>Presently Marriott Rewards Gold members received complimentary breakfast for 2, the same benefit was not available to SPG Gold members, but SPG offered more suite upgrades than Marriott. The free breakfast and the club Lounge access will be removed for Gold Elites now. negating the contract that they made with members in exchange for their loyalty. They can afford to do this now that they are the largest hotel group in the world, because they have less competition from those pundits that simply want to accumulate points for free nights.<p>Those pundits will be pleased to hear that there is a new option for Marriott Rewards® members to earn points and Elite nights. Long stay apartments. Next time you visit London for three or more nights, you can stay with Tribute Portfolio Homes and earn points.<p>There is also a new brand called Design. There are fewer benefits with Design Hotels, but at least it is another brand earning points.eliteprohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12418190934363691949noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892693522236149660.post-21207751453273270982018-02-20T12:50:00.001-06:002018-02-21T08:01:51.229-06:00Great hotel pool and golf<p>The Hilton Belfast Templepatrick Golf & Country Club is set in the beautiful Northern Irish countryside. It’s a wonderful backdrop to play golf or to have a wedding. It’s close to the Belfast International airport, but does not have a shuttle bus from the airport, (as many airport hotels do) It’s about a £15 taxi ride.<p>As I approached the nice long, wooded hotel driveway, I saw a man walking his dog and he lifted his dog to let the dog see the sheep over the old stone wall. Such a lovely location in the beautiful green countryside, where people are delightful.<p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvqMrh0W1FRSu31nMl4XdT2ulIkskvov1sI6sBfuQttSE7HFvaQvhnH6iAV-UoWU7a0KxfYkJtaBx1rPiXgsNsZw61KRpHKwdxl_U0rpq48Oxxa8w_VZiYB9VP07LQNGLBXNfPdpdzE81b/s1600-h/image%255B10%255D"><img width="404" height="271" title="image" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="image" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe05asF-tpHUapQHYLAix9Q5kaHko1v-72u9hXIRx98tGIK4VUNlpzkDhxYcSHQ44XmEXz43mXqdQA1DesnNNT0nhPjQUMLDnCJz2jJJwmwBBVZjcpX6Y8xtV2RAQobup7L5n1e_jKZfB6/?imgmax=800" border="0"></a><p>I have a routine when I stay at a hotel with a spa. I phone the spa as soon as I check in to make an appointment. Unfortunately, the spa/health Club, did not answer their phone, so I phoned the front desk and a very nice man said that he would get them to phone me. He said that they are open till 9pm but when I looked at the Hotel info book in the room and saw that it is open Thurs and Friday till 8pm and the Spa pamphlet states that they are open every day of the week till 9 pm. Anyway, at 2p.m. Grace, from the Spa, called and I asked her if I could have an appointment for Thursday or Friday. She abruptly told me that there were no time slots available and they would not even be able to accommodate me for a half hour appointment. This made me think that they did not have staff on the premises and my suspicion was confirmed when I went to the health club and saw that the treatment rooms were empty, all afternoon and evening. I decided to swim and looked in the room for the slippers and robe, but it was not there, so I had to wear my winter boots to the pool and Yuk, walk bare foot to the pool, where I discovered that I would have to wait an hour to swim because there was an exercise class in the pool. I wish that they had left one lane open for swimmers. I can’t help thinking that this is a fake hotel Spa, that it is only interested in catering to the locals and not to the hotel guests. The health club may as well be located in the village. Many hotels that have similar treatment rooms, call a local spa therapist, to come to the hotel when guests request it. It usually works well when the front desk of the hotel organizes this. I had the same problem last time I stayed at this hotel. There were no appointments available unless you book 2 weeks in advance. Occasionally, this is the case with Sheraton hotels, but they warn you on their website at the time of making a reservation, that the Spa or restaurant needs to be reserved early. <p>I was a hotel guest, so I did not know that I should bring a £1 coin to use a locker. I was in a bad mood, nothing seemed to go my way, that day. I was at this hotel for much needed R&R. The pool was a nice warm temperature and this alleviated my mood. <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFN82dDVH-GhT733cUqjnkx2dR6IS7muHoh0NDXI4wMo9J4r5PFneq597TMvE788OvLNCQC_GZv93fRnPeSXzsY0slVbTPYftWYoFo4vjdeRIyYK1ALVweNqQaxyBVSATjv_shdtC6l0Fw/s1600-h/image3%255B10%255D"><img width="404" height="232" title="image" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="image" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQJd8h0GV_eBN2juguu9IQxh9uA5y2vVrSDTIUtfpAojdYVOQ_iEJOfIYpy8dlSg4bpuhVYl_M6bDVa6iVbWatP8x8h2V2BsEpsKnS6oL8shKpjUqCfoiPCQUV9M1KGfIa2VrmbBQGneTe/?imgmax=800" border="0"></a><p>I saw that another guest was wearing hotel slippers and she confirmed that they were in the room, so I asked the housekeeping lady in the hall if they do or don’t have slippers in the room. She was very nice and explained that the rooms on the one side of the corridor do and the other rooms don’t. Apparently, I was a lowly elite HHonors member, (I’m top with SPG Marriott and Hyatt), so I did not get a Delux Hilton room. Now that I know they do have them, I will ask for slippers next time, so I don’t have to walk to the pool looking as if I was walking on broken ice, and I will bring a £1 coin to use the locker. Luckily, most Spas in the USA have the code system… When you travel to different hotels all the time, it’s not easy to predict what each hotel is like, that is why I like to remain loyal to a brand like Starwood, Marriott and Hyatt, where you know what to expect, within the brand conformity. It is nice that they have a business center with 2 computers, but the printer did not work to print a boarding pass. I was glad that they had Bloomberg channel on the TV and had a nice evening relaxing.<p>There was no mini bar /fridge in my room but I put my milk for tea out on the window ledge to stay cold. The room is nice, a bit dated shape of the bathroom vanity, but it is a functional, good sized bathroom and no reason to modernize it because it is comfortable. I like that the window can be opened, because the heating worked too well and I like fresh air. Many hotels near airports, don’t have windows that open.<p>On the whole, I really like staying at this hotel and will return.eliteprohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12418190934363691949noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892693522236149660.post-29485107178233834132018-02-04T18:25:00.001-06:002018-02-04T18:25:37.163-06:00Hilton is ending “Double Dip” on Points & Miles<p>I enjoy beach areas in the winter. Galveston in Texas is one of my favorite places to walk in the winter and now Brighton, U.K. is also on this list. Something so peaceful about looking out at the lonely, ocean from the tea room, with the wind blowing invigoratingly.<p>I've stayed at a few Hilton hotels lately, to take advantage of the Double Dip on Points before it ends in March. Hilton Honors hotel loyalty program, will stop their Double Dip® Points & Air Miles earning program. My stay at the Hilton Brighton, was pleasant as beach hotels always are.<p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieEeE3-zoL8HVtB9vbcNhAykCgZLzkAcZwwo0sAGjF7MDfu1a5yykfGhiGN_4RnpJhIKTFWv4LkWwoBZKzD8zc0Rb5MEzcQadbn6oJAcfpNooENtuYIp9QqLzs9hSAfgH0ijI5zAnu8LJn/s1600-h/clip_image002%255B30%255D"><img width="404" height="318" title="clip_image002" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="clip_image002" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3ppQlcw2J7O8iuJRvrteWa9G1DgksADg6bzo2hQ-kznt5iv7KGJgjGvLoKY0hubcF01TVm616hKHQ0X3C-4ox7EBRgWZkV6HLT-vSZTt-rVMMSDRn2BnSQmQWUlhW1mfAeABxd3fU35ew/?imgmax=800" border="0"></a><p>The Yellowave beach club is on the beach at Madeira Drive, open from 10am in the morning where the Yellowave and Barefoot cafe offers snacks coffee and beer. I had a delicious Samosa and a salad. In the summer it is more active with people playing volleyball, soccer and children fill the sandpit. The Clubhouse has uninterrupted sea views of Brighton beach<p>The Hilton Brighton Metropole in one of the grand, old buildings along the seaside. This landmark is in walking distance of Brighton's famous attractions - The Royal Pavilion, Brighton Wheel and British Airway's i36. I like walking along this promenade with the seagulls, peacefully landing on the beach.<p>it is a 125 year old Victorian elegant building, with modernized, stylish dining venues and a health club facilities. Parking is expensive, at is £25.00 over night, but I suppose to be expected, considering the location in this premium location in Brighton. It's a lovely seaside hotel offering stunning sea views. The accommodation has average U.K. style rooms, we did not make use of the other facilities because we were exploring Brighton from morning till noon. The central location on the seafront made a great base for exploring the city. I'm afraid of heights so did not take to the skies to see Brighton from above on the British Airway's i36. We drove along the beautiful South Coast Downs and The "Seven Sisters", England's newest national park, which contains some of the most iconic views of the white chalk cliffs, similar to the more famous cliffs of Dover.<p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrxXMMIACIl1bv5zpWVvzQWuDvVXD2JFwxVti8ZnywcKJK2WkwMD-mcctIyhg2Dq1vUkSOa9lAUEYw0K0U5qJ0kMyCRkym6564HevcJ-H3cnJU1MWF66r-ZYyF4J19uTmbx8aPSO1jVHfN/s1600-h/clip_image004%255B16%255D"><img width="404" height="169" title="clip_image004" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="clip_image004" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq-tvdu4ncs9LYBWs1ojbcG3viTbzdyMVeotHXmZEw9cH5nDOCy0jp1NVuTEHx6apYSayTdcNciDeSsePBrFNkr1hbVtqHOipnE8G5FC59nIFsalhi87hbSG275zUaS4ZBkGZ96X4gRBiO/?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>eliteprohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12418190934363691949noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892693522236149660.post-7022347402109653542018-01-19T14:07:00.001-06:002018-01-22T07:06:23.116-06:00RENTAL CARS BEST QUOTES<p>When it comes to booking hotels, it is best to go directly to the hotel brand website for the lowest reservation, but with car hire, the opposite is true. The best deal is a website that checks all the prices of the car rental companies. The main reason that I don’t go directly to the car rental websites is that they always end up costing more than the quoted price, whereas, with <a href="https://www.autoeurope.com/?aff=ELITEPRO" target="_blank">AUTOEUROPE</a>, you do get the best price. So, if you have no preference, which car rental company, you use, it is smart to find the best price. They are the experts and, trust me, you will have the best possible rental car experience. Fortunately, you have the option to cancel for FREE,UP TO 48 HRS BEFORE PICKUP. They get the best rates at FIREFLY CAR Rental, the discounted HERTZ subsidiary. </p><p><strong>I always check with several websites directly before booking a rental car in Europe, but always end up reserving with A because AUTOEUROPE they are the cheapest.</strong></p><p><strong><a href="https://www.autoeurope.com/?aff=ELITEPRO" target="_blank">click here to go to AutoEurope</a></strong></p><p><a href="https://www.autoeurope.com/?aff=ELITEPRO" target="_blank"><img width="454" height="204" title="image" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="image" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLmCXlakrMZmiMlnw9aaxj1Ecopr6kOCaAq88qWHryNuADDN99YsO09S6is-Vv8gajLmq8s21qLccvmUZmDlQndfr2jURxUco4TCvx8SuZfonn5j70jOU5hPH1qZnSisrOjWIKdXV40ukT/?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Book and pay by 1/31/2018, for 5-21 day rentals with pickups through 03/22/18, blackout dates may apply. Discount is dependent upon rental location, pick-up date, and rental duration. Additional restrictions may apply depending upon pick-up and drop-off country. This offer may not be combined with any other offer, promotion or discount. Discounts apply to the mandatory rental costs, excluding taxes, fees, and surcharges. Offer is valid at participating locations but may vary by country, location, or availability. One way fees, local fees, and optional extras such as child seats, additional drivers, and fuel are charged at normal rates. <p><a href="https://www.autoeurope.com/?aff=ELITEPRO" target="_blank"><img width="342" height="207" title="image" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="image" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE1fU4VUyZ2HuhI3-Vqw_0KchmTKlzEh4QLfHzyXxeo151XpAUnXRlQz0906COQuAZCvpfjQU6ZD_QPVlUI_mVgYbrCCa7AUpwOD2YPKVDSD9zF2Ys3RsUzpZyDeHsrZhKSvGfiQyE0Efk/?imgmax=800" border="0"></a><p>I rented in Belfast, Northern IRELAND and enjoyed driving along the spectacular coast. The only extra charge was a “Location service charge of about $20” eliteprohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12418190934363691949noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892693522236149660.post-41886484414966933212017-09-02T10:00:00.001-05:002017-09-02T10:00:35.565-05:00NYC's biggest rooftop Bar<p>There has only been one United Club lounge open at EWR Newark Airport for a few months now. and even that one is in the process of being renovated, so I just grabbed a gin & tonic and did not stay because it was so hot! I hope they do get proper Airconditioning while they are renovating. </p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYhNcf6-qA92SOrh2jcOCD4mF4B9Xi-SNtnkLmY6lb4u-HwhcRXJmR4tqgwksxv13hdNDz0KJuU02Z9uKTCELHLAJ3wIir24GhDONdNhxo59ivnZB17gQFn-4S3bYJEeZy02xFQ-6UK7A7/s1600-h/WP_20170823_13_39_25_Pro%255B12%255D"><img width="388" height="220" title="WP_20170823_13_39_25_Pro" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="WP_20170823_13_39_25_Pro" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbwCfI5fGyG_RjVIDZmlKZoDFOstTRD_0ooTr3qua2WnC-C1Y6DBj7Em3wXLNNoAcydWNoisUE83mwQ1smsdl9_DqvtfZ2m38WtDXq6kHbTruqX25VrIhBcSW4H5P0hSbzOBRgRu0skRZm/?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>I do like the new restaurants in Newark, New York airport, You can use the iPads to go on the internet and you can use miles to order food. It is easy to use your United airline miles at the airport in New York. I was able to order a bite to eat on an iPad at dining tables near my gate. </p><p><img width="393" height="236" title="WP_20160207_09_42_55_Pro" alt="WP_20160207_09_42_55_Pro" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigQNn3FxDavXobhbbodJ8M6JPBNIi4H9R7cuinFpZuAdrcnK2nbSRvnQXZ0wqCe8t3MaQZhJC0XHR-fLD5tXPasgVfsElgwNsz9n6TqD17tBkC_LQ1BJzFFhNQ5Aamj6ZvAzYdTHXahFBv/?imgmax=800" border="0"></p><p> There is a brand new Hotel with the trendiest evening Rooftop bar in Manhattan. Enjoyable, stunning views at Magic Hour, NYC's largest rooftop lounge. Moxy Times Square boasts "that affordability doesn’t mean sacrificing style or comfort."I'm not so sure that you can call bunk beds, "style" but I can understand that space is limited in NYC. 612 bedrooms are cleverly designed by Yabu to adapt to pack traveler’s needs, with a wide variety of room types, flexible furniture (you can store your suitcase under the bed) The grey industrial look is kind of cool but I prefer a bath tub to a shower, so I would not be a happy camper. I do like that at last there is a hotel entering this century with personal screen streaming technology – Netflix, Hulu, Pandora, in these immersive social spaces good for hanging out.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUZK27Q2b9Mrh5DhOIzcNqxwO7XB8dBK4_sadE8DUU76C0XPoJ8vKdhmaLkCw6dmpDuX6K7xSfX4-Vmiz1u-Epk4DGC8Dz6JQTU5qd3T79JNJ0tZDNZm8GLlX_0ng8J5-0vSaigC8HeHzE/s1600-h/image%255B3%255D"><img width="381" height="232" title="image" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="image" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqrqRR8YE5hz7vakDGGdcscUeMzggyRGf7nbFY7klWI-odrEuIjcCEfnY2Nz4QSblrBbh47dNMoYcdP3oS0c8ASudoa-eLqJA53s6l9WStn5MXqISeUrlt3yvIDo-QdNg4_Df4a4FkORtn/?imgmax=800" border="0"></a> </p><p>Marriott's new brand the Cosmopolitan Moxy Hotels is less expensive than their namesake brand. They want to cater to a young crowd so offer snacks and cocktail drinks, games, arty-farty stuff and advertise that they have Lobbies like living rooms with a bartender with secret hiding spots, comfy couches to snooze off in and guestrooms like treehouses". </p><p>I always like staying at the Marriott Newark because it is across the road from the airport, though I preferred it more 2 years ago because they had a pool then. I am disappointed that they removed the pool because it really feels good to swim after a long flight.</p>eliteprohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12418190934363691949noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892693522236149660.post-25470612543022849932017-07-05T10:49:00.001-05:002017-07-05T10:57:11.625-05:00Best and worst airports in Europe<p>I try to avoid Amsterdam airport because it is always hot and crowded, with long wait lines. Even when they have the “Self serve” Passport control open, it is a long queue. </p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwnlJv4Yj6nQmwtbYxD-1jc-uT_7UoF-Sg2mfRZ4tfPMyiOrHJKfYcWKRoX3NrnLPs0_kBx2ZGMTFYzwOmhn4SsKxl0Gt6NSAiaGvc5aPPaE3XUpm0Qu4Psay_zfKA8QdmVGAIo747vFB9/s1600-h/2017-06-25+10.58.51+%25282%2529%255B3%255D"><img width="396" height="224" title="2017-06-25 10.58.51 (2)" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="2017-06-25 10.58.51 (2)" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibnf4vEAXGxECkL_b4bmcs6-cmb8w8CaGjRn2vbxbFGe4iVJqttJzM8-x8IHkCDPPE641k92TNFbmTmvmjIr6wE_XD0SJp2hropvKXmofLV01ZKdOWGsA7J67R5362YaMb2zpQOsYCw_A1/?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>It’s frightening to be enclosed in a small space with a low ceiling. I was afraid of someone so close to me that they could take something out of or put something in my bag. </p><p>I used to like <a href="https://twitter.com/Schiphol"><s>@</s><b>Schiphol</b></a> AMS airport, but the last 8 years it has always been long lines and lots of passengers cramped in a small space<p>One thing that I do like about Schiphol Airport, is that they have the Massage pods near the gates. I like to sit in the massage chair costing two Euros</p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg_2K-JedhrHsJIx1G0kW1zBxPFV3vLha-1MGm1cVwXRdeoHefJDCh-R2-DtwYZPhdvbAmyEJQxLek5vD9Kfv4Xp-wglrQ8N0jh4AEOpbWTmfNA0fvLaZAAM5DENLNJOlz7wPJv_OdrpQu/s1600-h/2017-06-25+13.06.16%255B9%255D"><img width="396" height="224" title="2017-06-25 13.06.16" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="2017-06-25 13.06.16" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIrBtPSSHlyfzNl4iFsNbRR468lnqLCF4UPrGMwGxtzwy3A0VQwyZniDkw5rpy-9ENVVTJDtLrxgRqxG_tucKur6Lr6ThzRt2OLLmZVzBAB-w1awJchEjnpxDi4gK0KIiQF4sjvRGy5muA/?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><blockquote><p><em><font size="3">It ‘s nice to find small treats like the free water at Heathrow water after security and the free coffee at Frankfurt airport.</font></em></p></blockquote><p><font color="#0000ff">Take an empty bottle to fill with purified water at LHR airport.</font></p><p>Luton Airport is on the list of worst European airports, coming in eighth place for high Wi-Fi charges. Sleepinginairports.net annual list of the world's worst airports, has Paris' Beauvais-Tille International Airportvoted in sixth place, and described as 'cramped, rundown, debatably clean, and not particularly friendly.Frankfurt Hahn International Airport, Germany and Bergamo Orio al Serio International Airport, Italy were in the top worst European spaces. But I like Frankfurt International Airport (FRA), known in German as Rhein-Main-Flughafen, because they have free self-serve coffee.The Elite access lounges at Frankfurt are superb. The SKY LOUNGE at Frankfurt Airport is located outside of the security area and the Lufthansa lounges passed security are the best I have been to. The First class lounge has a sleeping pod and a spa with top restaurant food served at tables. Free breakfast buffet and Hot/cold buffet with Drinks at a complimentary full bar. The LuxxLounge at FRA- Main Terminal 1, landside, between concourses B and C, above checkin counter 680 on the mezzanine next to the market (accross the skybridge to the Sheraton Hotel.) is also good and open to Elite travelers in several airlines.</p><p>I really like that Boston airport has a special, glass encased area for smokers, away from those of us that like to breath. I had to inhale smoke at Brussels Airport the day before arriving in Boston, so I was suffering from Asthma. At Brussels, even the Police stand at the door, smoking in groups, so you cant pass through the exit without a lack of oxygen. Then I had to wait 2 hours for the Holiday Inn bus. The bus stop is in the covered garage, where everyone smokes.</p>eliteprohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12418190934363691949noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892693522236149660.post-73377711574293559432017-05-31T07:02:00.001-05:002017-05-31T07:16:29.743-05:00Flying BA Business Class to Ireland?<p><font size="3">British Airways from Heathrow to Dublin, or Belfast in Club Europe is a pleasant, short flight. (The BA business class equivalent, is called Club Europe). On long hall flights, you get a wider seat but within Europe you get a seat the same as economy, but the middle seat is kept empty by a plank put there to block seating, so you really get half a seat to stretch on the Dub -LHR Airbus 318. It's a short flight of 55 minutes and the benefits are food and that you get Fast track security. Yes, unfortunately, you have to go through security again even if you are in transit from another flight. <br>They usually bus Passengers to their plane, like they do for countries at war. The troubles are long over in Ireland, so they should be able to provide a gate attached to the Terminal. Unfortunately Irish flights don't, usually get a gate, so there is often stairs involved. <br>A hot towel provided by a smiling flight attendant looks promising on embarking the aircraft. The Royal Dolton China makes cup for tea taste so much better than the tea I had in the departure lounge.</font></p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfBqtRP-n8dhyphenhyphenoOGbvCdSsohOGO04fMvLRckhLtdXvV3L8BActKD6HDmDiuOzVIc3JJHbqYzcX1nyzYKZi0wKGtw3e5r7t39g6KsYlmvelD4iyZWSSndV6kRhc7KgwXmcJCczBbd0xWyNi/s1600-h/BA-club-class3"><img title="BA club class" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="BA club class" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF3IlKhr7ih9KY-CRoeVqrZcCe9dIYesCn_RAiYv6LIvs2Tc7cLs7rZX9rzYvTlroJ9PTGpYG2yBDQ1f31A6dUhbuDNwnuZGtH9WHzR2v1AB-CKUL9wbcr8mTbbnGPfAYkB8LfcLcf5kRh/?imgmax=800" width="416" height="248"></a></p> <p><font size="3"><strong><em><font size="4">The thing that most impresses me about British Airways is that they are the only airline that always manages to server fresh bread rolls. I wish they would let United Airlines in on the secret of their catering supply methods. Perhaps they have Leprechauns baking on the wings.</font></em></strong></font><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMdtWk1GG3DpUh9KDHZVPRQtdmKSpKb6g53LYPoVMCrEWosOQWl80LMIlphG1oEjW1wjvM29PzqgLzZAnJkFEqFZLpK5ffGs57XUvhpFqVeQUTQNvWWOUtOOcyVFGqV4JzF4QCV93P84Wx/s1600-h/WP_20170119_07_25_33_Pro3"><img title="WP_20170119_07_25_33_Pro" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="WP_20170119_07_25_33_Pro" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA-XQhW-4pdvIbN-Egj_UFG4EB6Nb4KaUFMWkZ_XL4FqztqtI5Qbg3zv3QcYGy_k4YfdAmh2iwmfCMnhRM6r3dranI8PNLSmRXU3sokGqRi-j8lO4sd_9uYPjgg90X-DFThcHipcDtBqdr/?imgmax=800" width="408" height="245"></a></p> <p>It is a slightly shorter flight from the USA to Ireland than to Europe. The newer planes fly faster. I prefer to fly direct from New York to Ireland and not go via London, but I enjoy British Airways. Among the biggest 4 US airlines, American now boasts the youngest aircraft fleet. AA fly directly from the USA to Dublin, as do United. I wish that United had not stopped flying to Belfast, because it is a 2 hour drive from Dublin to Belfast, and renting a car to drive on the left side of the road when I’m jet lagged is not the best scenario.</p> <p>BA BUSINESS CLASS is called Club Europe – on flights within the UK and Europe & Club World - on longer international flights. It’s called Club World London City – between London City and New York JFK European flights are with contoured leather seats with 76.2cm (30") legroom.</p> <p>BA tier Executiv Club membership begins as a Blue Member, thenBronze silver gld.To reach Gold, you will need to fly BA at least four times and earn 1500 Tier Points</p>eliteprohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12418190934363691949noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892693522236149660.post-12334480649318788572017-05-22T10:21:00.001-05:002017-05-22T10:26:33.125-05:00Boston airport<p>I really like that Boston airport has a special, glass encased area for smokers, away from those of us that like to breath. I had to inhale smoke at Brussels Airport the day before arriving in Boston, so I was suffering from Asthma. At Brussels, even the Police stand at the door, smoking in groups, so you cant pass through the exit without a lack of oxygen. Then I had to wait 2 hours for the Holiday Inn bus. The bus stop is in the covered garage, where everyone smokes.</p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEjBc3dOH9h0gYM6876OFPERNrQCpuQYqndGT7XYNfy8ajCE5MATGIL5KLeJKpopK8j26KlZef07jfOxj-QXzdl5rtigFDD0xCtHrEAMJpmbFLqdBbTq9ekJYttC-2zY253kL2Bfj2B1F5/s1600-h/2017-02-12-10.07.403"><img title="2017-02-12 10.07.40" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="2017-02-12 10.07.40" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmjrvCNLHpwE1aB7BZ2DY9TxZM4IB7s_fiSaTJ9tCah0OjbBZMfFCCp-zYA_Tjvq3hUtnNYmL7Kkplml_ZXcSIK0o0W48CQSX4W9SrCctNc9sx2FxU0gtatmQNCYwbryImBVvnuFw_pbUb/?imgmax=800" width="392" height="235"></a></p> <p>The other thing that I like about BOS airport is the rocking chairs! You can also de-stress in the relaxing Airline Club lounge. You can buy a lounge membership or can get in for free if you have Elite United Platinum Premier 1K status. Lounge access when traveling internationally is for Gold Platinum and 1K United and Star Alliance members. Perhaps the chairs are used most for rocking babies to sleep, so on slightly related news: … The USA has too many laws, but they keep adding more. One of the 2015 laws is that there must be mandatory breast pumping stations at airports. Bizarre but you know that they include this in their fees to cover this. The fuel sur-charge went up when oil prices were high but never came down when prices did. Fees and laws never disappear.</p> <p><img title="Boston Logan Airport" border="0" alt="Boston Logan Airport" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqr1ifnXWJsGDOQyU-wwGgYtWVo-cUHkxehjqqisxEHRFdovvytLtTentvF8Rm1dJ979bXDUIscQPL1p_RTm3Y9jWMlFxzIv_kwTnhRBnVsZwrGbYGJP1eQj-a2w6mR8CD4whCDhc6Qzj9/?imgmax=800" width="429" height="257"> <p>One thing that I don’t like about Boston Logan International Airport is that the Airport staff, (not TSA) stand at the beginning of the line for passengers to go through the scanners and tell people that they are not allowed to take cabin bags. This slows down the line because I had to re-pack my hand luggage to combine all my stuff. I had my computer out and my thick jacket in my bag so I could go through the TSA pre, fast. I was flying first class so she did not consider that I was allowed a bit more. She was just inventing her own rules. <p> It is good to get Elite Status because you can board in group one so you have first go at the overhead luggage space. <p>Happy travels! eliteprohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12418190934363691949noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892693522236149660.post-63314252144163231852017-05-18T08:29:00.001-05:002017-05-18T08:35:02.913-05:00Houston, Y’all R out of luck<p>Sometimes I wonder if it is worth being a Premier Platinum member of United Airlines. They decided to change the flight I booked several months ago and re-routed me via Chicago. I do not want to fly via Chicago but since United treats Houstonians badly, they just sent me an email telling me that I had to take an extra flight to Chicago. They stopped flying at 1pm to Houston, from New York. I told them that I would suffer waiting an extra 3 hours at EWR rather than fly to Chicago and asked them why they removed my wait list for first class, without re-instating it in my account. You should watch out for their hand slight tricks. I would have preferred to fly via Washington, not Chicago, but they refused to let me, without paying a few hundred dollars extra. As usual, it’s a one way relationship. They can change my flight after I paid for it but they won’t accommodate my preference. <p>They sold me a flight taking up 3 hours less of my time, then a week before departure, they changed it and told me that I would have to pay hundreds of dollars more to fly a similar time schedule via IAD. <p>They say that Houston is a HUB, but it is really, just a gateway to South American flights, and if you don’t fly to S. America, you pay some of the highest airfares to other destinations. The City of Houston taxpayers paid for the fancy Airport dominated by United but now Houstonians don’t have much competition at the airport. Even the Latin America flights are going to be directly from Newark like the new flights to Argentina. <p>United Tweeted that they are increasing the flights from several cities, but not from Houston. <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwRo3EP6a-n4hYxYKC9sbNRAUzvU5ZsdamaJvVW2-v4ypUYr2m-f2PX7xkfStsKUDsMgSh0F7XWldCQYZykOjOGohWaX5dQCiXJYffIoXFelf6m7kk4VhoqEdsXA-1RC-oo_ZQF1SY1rXB/s1600-h/united+tweet%255B3%255D"><img title="united tweet" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="united tweet" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJfhK5_bVuaNrxgkz5NdUHWaSFjMb2Lze5EAe8-GhEnGS4m7qaie0wb9ziCvxzTSDN2md7zgVzRL8qB4bPxXYlOrZkJ92FqZ4H9DLyIv_pusCAAXFBYtzHWQTFmzeokIGqIX_UbHTDBD0H/?imgmax=800" width="399" height="285"></a> <p>On May 1<sup>st</sup> United tweeted “We’re providing agents with creative solutions to get our customers where they need to go” Yes, their creative solutions are not overbooking but now they are removing whole flights that passengers have paid for and squashing those passengers on other, longer, more inconvenient flights. <p>United are no longer in the classy Airlines category. Continental Air was a cut above other airlines but now that they have merged, United has decided to downgrade to provide similar service to the low cost airlines (without the low cost). They have what they call “Basic Economy” tickets which are subject to loads of restrictions including,: NO seat selection or upgrades, no group or family seating, no normal sized carry-on bags and no flight changes or refunds. Certain MileagePlus and MileagePlus Premier® member benefits are not available. So is it worth getting elite Status if you don’t get benefits and have to pay more than the average price?</p>eliteprohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12418190934363691949noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892693522236149660.post-3102067026251440432017-03-22T13:00:00.001-05:002017-03-22T13:01:02.097-05:00Don't forget the Alamo & the Riverwalk<p>Once you have seen the Alamo, it will be engraved in your memory, because it is an impressive structure. </p> <p>I’ve been invited to the Grand Opening of the Bowie Exhibit at The Alamo. It’s a new exhibit exploring the life of legendary Alamo defender James Bowie and his famous knife. I’m excited about celebrating the Ribbon Cutting and seeing the “Living History Demonstrations”. The courageous frontiersmen Crocket, Bowie and Travis are captivating and riveting tales of brave Patriot Pioneers</p> <p><img title="IMG_0781" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="IMG_0781" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho-sfkuwJVmrMHqt5hgNX8477U8tIvX63wGx-YzCsE10gC_-qfdojeSgOQjFIZ_lkM33Q8sWM7jEt1MYI0J8UrvogDMOo5y1_LNJW1iIhyGn-sW2sK3fHLR5DYHC2fNlyY26GM9_US8LzO/?imgmax=800" width="378" height="194"></p> <p>I find the <img title="IMG_0391" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: right; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_0391" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvQ7iynH5hHQiutANoI6MABuzF5k1U0k-qXgqYvJNoTwLoty1lsfGvvBMy09nFRphg1dOXn8FypFReHDJa-1ay-vHfxGX0RoiUmbzWCt0b-GegERcqsG2x5PAknpQgsuGdVg3ur44O5Sta/?imgmax=800" width="276" align="right" height="227">Alamo an alluring historical site and have often visited the grounds or just stood outside the spellbinding Fort Building façade. I think of these founding Texans as I drive down Travis Street In Houston. It is in the center of the city, so you can’t visit the city without seeing all the down-town streets named after the 19th-century heroes. </p> <blockquote> <p><font size="2">One of Davys quotes on Government Welfare, comes to mind: Col. Davy Crockett wisely warned that <font face="Bookman Old Style">“ <em>a government big enough to give you everything you want is also big enough to take away what you have</em>".</font> In n 1836 The Texas Revolution was fought, following a 13-day siege by Mexican troops under the brutal, President General Santa Anna.</font></p></blockquote> <p>I enjoy visiting the Missions near San Antonio. Mission San Jose is about 4 miles from the Alamo, where the National Park Service Rangers set the stage for you to visit the other mission sites on the trail. The stone buildings at Mission Concepcion give a picture of what life was like when the Pioneers arrived from Europe to find the farm land promised to them was in hot, rugged terrain, with the only shelter and protection from the Indians, was within the walls of the Missions. Spain had promised Swedes, Scotts and other Europeans land to form a buffer from the Navajo, Cherokee and Shawnee Indian tribes that the Catholic Missions were trying to Christianize. <p>The Marriott Riverwalk, Hyatt and the Westin Hotel are close to the Alamo but the The Menger Hotel & Valencia are right next to it. The Alamo provides photo ops in both day light and is illuminated beautifully at night. <p>.<img title="IMG_0218" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="IMG_0218" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLl5tQ0vJGCoQHuUWXkjqU0sWnvTpFgEAxFi_lHfgXIi-H4mhfMtOOU6hBKmRjOzdv5j0ORykC0KW-TBrQkfhOdIFUgVyWAia6xQBYzFFT3Tq1irRG9Ibp4BGkqFQ62jSnLiFDJUF3R9BL/?imgmax=800" width="244" height="183"></p> <p>I’m certainly glad that I can stay in one of those comfortable hotels when I visit San Antonio. In 1840 the folk did not have much comfort, The least of their concerns, was a lack of air-conditioning and in my book, it is a basic necessity in Texas.</p>eliteprohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12418190934363691949noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892693522236149660.post-26860822420810881962017-03-10T08:59:00.001-06:002017-05-19T06:04:20.358-05:00Tips for a visit to Paris in the Spring<p>I stayed at the Renaissance a couple of years ago, and hope that I will like it again. This Paris Vendome Hotel, appeals to me, mainly because I like to swim to stretch after a long flight. The Boutique hotel is located in the fashion & historic district of Paris, and has a Spa & indoor swimming pool. Their sister hotel, the Paris Marriott Opera Ambassador Hotel does not have a pool but is wonderful for shopping! <p>The Renaissance Paris Vendome is located just between Rue Saint Honore and the Tuileries Garden, next to the Place Vendome and the Paris Fashion District. You can walk to Taxi, Bus and Metro for transportation. It’s a Cat 9 hotel, so you need a lot of Marriott Rewards points to get one “free” night. 45,000 points to be exact. But if you have them, uses them or lose them. Accumulated points will be removed from your account if you do not have qualifying activity in the prior 2 years. Check with Marriott for exclusive Elite savings and offers are available to Elites throughout the year. <p>This is an article sent in by Sally Dacre" as the first Guest Writer on ElitePro. If anyone else would like to guest write, just drop me an email at <a>blog@elitepro-travel.com</a> .... <h1><strong><font size="2">Enjoying Paris in Spring -</font></strong></h1> <p><font size="2"><font face="Californian FB"><strong><em>There is no better time to visit Paris than in the spring</em></strong>: </font></font>Songs have been written about it, great literary works have sung its praises. Paris really blossoms in spring time, where the river Seine comes to life and the city parks bloom in verdant splendor. As elite frequent fliers, you have probably been to Paris before, but here is a refresher on where your adventures should begin. Tips for enjoying Paris in the spring time: <p><img title="Paris in the Spring" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="Paris in the Spring" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1BtTaGWmCeNXT9jOiXRjDFwSK9xbsjM548wBN-8yTaspxdkK0uWuj9_FNsvngWGQqRKuV0ZnrCCul35ieEuD9FvarF1sl1cVk4P4Tzr9n_AwFt-LKnov7yTcvURgmf74Spd8W9dMVoBgG/?imgmax=800" width="409" height="176"> <p>Visit the Beautiful Gardens You can't visit Paris as a tourist, without enjoying some of its most famous museums, such as a trip to the Lourve to see the infamous Mona Lisa. However, it would be a shame to visit Paris in the spring and spend the whole time cooped inside: so why not explore the many outdoor cultural delights that Paris has to offer? The Luxembourg gardens are particularly beautiful in spring time and a day trip to the nearby Palace of Versailles is an incredible experience you should plan into your trip if you're staying in Paris for longer than a weekend. Of course, if you don't want to stray too far from the center of the city, the Louvre has beautiful gardens that you can escape to and explore when you tire of enjoying one of the world’s most beautiful and extensive art collections. <p><strong>Dine Outside: -</strong> Paris is well known for its street café culture, where chic Parisians dine and drink outside whilst watching the world go by and people watching: ensuring they can see and be seen. Spring is the perfect time of year to join them by enjoying lunch outside. Picking a good restaurant isn't hard in Paris (there are an abundance!) but s good rule of thumb is to look for a restaurant that is packed full of residents, rather than tourists: if the picky French are prepared to pay for their lunch there then the food must be good! Enjoy a light lunch with a good quality bottle of wine (French of course) and let the rest of the day simply drift by. Don't forget to enjoy some of the desserts that the Parisians are so famous for whilst you're there, and if you're in any doubt about what to eat then ask your waiter for recommendations: they are generally passionate about the food they serve and love to show off their knowledge. Whilst <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/budget-travel/4-great-tips-for-visiting_b_5086377.html" target="_blank">there's so much to see and do in Paris</a>, often the best experiences are those when you're doing nothing at all, so don't see an afternoon enjoying lunch as wasted time, but as part of your Parisian adventure. <p>Remain Alert. Unfortunately, in the current world political climate, it is impossible to talk about visiting Paris without mentioning the recent tragic terror attacks that have blighted the city, and their aftermath. <a href="http://www.express.co.uk/travel/articles/762656/Paris-safe-to-travel-to-French-capital-terror-attack-threat-travel-advice-France" target="_blank">Security is much tighter</a> in much of the city, particularly around the airports and train stations, and you will also see an enhanced police and military presence. For some visitors this can seem daunting as, unlike in many other European cities. (Some find it reassuring that armed guards are there to protect us) The police patrols in Paris are heavily armed. Whilst this can make the threat of terrorism seem more real, Paris is a safe city to visit. It is simply important that you pay attention to any instructions issued by the security services, that you remain alert when in high traffic areas, <a href="http://www.quotezone.co.uk/travel-insurance.htm" target="_blank">and have the protection of a good level of travel insurance</a> should something unexpected occur. <p>Visit the Eiffel Tower: - One of the biggest attractions on a trip to Paris is a <a href="http://www.foxnews.com/travel/2013/05/21/7-great-tips-for-visiting-paris-in-springtime.html" target="_blank">visit to the top of the Eiffel Tower</a>. Something that every visitor enjoys for good reason: it is a once in a lifetime experience that you will never forget. Beat the crowds by pre-booking your elevator ride to the top of the Tower and, once there, why not celebrate with a glass or two of champagne? There's no way to predict how crowded this popular tourist attraction will be, but visiting during the evening can often help you beat the crowds and the tower remains open until 11pm every night until mid-June. You'll also be able to enjoy the beauty and romance of Paris during the evening: perfect for a warm spring night. eliteprohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12418190934363691949noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892693522236149660.post-24889811022897681442016-12-10T06:53:00.001-06:002016-12-10T06:55:42.867-06:00Living Dutch art<p>Stop at the Rijksmuseum to admire masterpieces by Rembrandt and Vermeer or head to a street market (markt) to buy tulips.</p> <p>I was able to stand inside the Nightwatch painting, created as sculptures in Rembrants Plein Amsterdam. I discovered this living art when I walked from the tram stop to my hotel, The Waldorf Astoria. There are many other hotels near the Rembrandt's square. The N H hotel has a view of this sculpture. NH Hotels are quite a big, “mid-priced” brand, in Europe. They have 400 hotels in 30 countries offering free Wi-Fi <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7yDtlgd3SpLZv8FcRaIcJFpD7mpQUfKqHf-CASjcNChwu7cRdzsbagW0x8IBft27kAYBQ_iCGWxHc-kG3ARjr55RP26NFqvwpprJdRNZtE8UR8J8sgDzbCZWZGce_CD4bciY_ejmP2w93/s1600-h/me%252520in%252520nightwatch%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="me in nightwatch" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="me in nightwatch" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNbh_IEsUv51lhkipGIDt0jE7uOMCjuZy5wWuOpcKYaYtTQSSF8egSN-T_DFKiXzexu4ENs1WIMBEwMZgA3PZ2Jbr4dT6gpbObKdFAjs7uPbAl2gUNxjiTh-p2uvkLnmOogmClN0nV-UrW/?imgmax=800" width="377" height="329"></a></p>eliteprohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12418190934363691949noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892693522236149660.post-35215992270523665972016-12-08T14:39:00.001-06:002016-12-08T14:39:11.892-06:00Christmas in Europe<p>Amsterdam is beautifully lit up with Christmas lights during the Light Festival. I make sure that <em>I</em> am in Holland on the 5th of December every year for the wonderful celebrations with family. In the USA, there are no businesses open on Christmas day and then we hit the store sales the day after, but in England, Xmas extends to “Boxing Day”. Over the past few centuries, servants served the gentry, then on the 26th December, they boxed up the leftovers and took them to their relatives for their day off. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3EJKYMzZhI_eicZU7uHy6xVVVejth8bEB4I-sDGEupMt8qJZUK_LNVJldOJ98-AmfczBYTlZtUwqatvtGnlfQGVTAe2n57hDbmSL9qvaErld96ze_3G8HpC4UzHLYcpCNot7QsPL76STu/s1600-h/SINT.JPG"><img border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3EJKYMzZhI_eicZU7uHy6xVVVejth8bEB4I-sDGEupMt8qJZUK_LNVJldOJ98-AmfczBYTlZtUwqatvtGnlfQGVTAe2n57hDbmSL9qvaErld96ze_3G8HpC4UzHLYcpCNot7QsPL76STu/s200/SINT.JPG"></a><br>In Holland and in Germany, the “second Christmas Day” is a time to treat your family to dine in a restaurant. I had a wonderful breakfast at my hotel, the Waldorf Astoria Amsterdam. Librije's Zusies is a Michelin star Restaurant at the Waldorf, with delightful cuisine, so I may take the family there as a treat. </p> <p>The legend of the kindly Pope’s representative, (The Bishop) arriving, is played out with much pageantry in Holland to this day. Sinterklaas arrives annually on a Saturday at the end of November. This event is broadcast on national Television, each year he arrives at a different city by boat. <p>I traveled to Amsterdam with some friends from America and enjoyed their astonishment at seeing Santa’s helpers because he is always accompanied by 2 fake black moors! They are both named “zwarte Piet”( Translated is: “black Peter”). Though there have been some racist accusations, so this year I have seen some Purple Piete and they don’t call them zwarte anymore, just “Piete” Pity, because it made Dutch children look fondly on black people. Though, I have to admit, it is the strangest thing to see 2 grown men in tights with black makeup covering their faces! Well worth hopping on a KLM flight to cross the pond to experience a Dutch Christmas, if you can keep a straight face. <p>Children place one of their shoes in front of the fireplace (or heater). Inside the shoe, they place a carrot (for his horse), and a list of desired gifts that they hope will appear on December 5. Did you notice that I said that in Holland St. Nic delivers the gifts on Dec 5th and not on Dec 25 as he does in other parts of the world and that he has a horse in the Netherlands whereas he needs reindeer to travel globally~ Germany is also a delightful country to visit at Christmas time. I love the schönen Christmas Markets! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SantaClaus?src=hash"><s>#</s><b>SantaClaus</b></a> and the Hotel Palace in Berlin's city center/Kurfuerstendamm with a nice, SPA + indoor pool. The Palace is a member of The Leading Hotels of the World Group.</p>eliteprohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12418190934363691949noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892693522236149660.post-40362946634305246562016-09-26T17:21:00.001-05:002016-09-26T17:21:51.825-05:00A Grand old Royal Hotel<p> </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZTAGaNzSx3alH2tD7DN4Bn1FhmHj7LG06Xfo1V_5icf4_1e8NpyQuMDEpZ6ZlYt-DAFSYtHxJ_v2WNUy5XIwEdBjK-xwcsoL9l9Fvy32Jhqho7k9hyWFtVea-UA3nnlYK8tOfVDjXDSzF/s1600-h/2015-02-05-16.01.09-18.jpg"><img title="2015-02-05 16.01.09-1" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="2015-02-05 16.01.09-1" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9CFB-Ox2mh5A7js_GcS17__WXhySpH9MYg_5d7YFk04n6WQtszFG2maCjbUKmkvdn7QbvpbEQnIlav6MVMLkBTlwptqiHVCJmDikiwCM_7dT9TPUGJy7S4A5ClYIsdmoKdnvzfN8OwlJv/?imgmax=800" width="418" height="251"></a></p> <p>Hotel van Oranje, is a grand old hotel, the Autograph Collection® is only 25 minutes away from Amsterdam. on the Koningin Wilhelmina Boulevard 20 Noordwijk. This grandly named Boulevard is fitting for this majestically, ostentatious hotel. Prior to WW2, during Queen Wilhelmina’s reign, it was a glamourous place. This is its greatest charm, nonetheless, the management and polite doorman added to a delightful stay. <p>T<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3IkPB6_IogsWRaRZqjmVQBhyphenhyphen6crL4tqc7B8UgD8nKJaxswihldZdlw36RzzhKEhOOWC6FtAzDLizrpNMgxvsOJY38plRScMO7yDOrqjBK65BQCU5MioVSy1DBZmzZl5wnKUmCStM0fNB6/s1600-h/WP_20150206_14_51_49_Pro11.jpg"><img title="WP_20150206_14_51_49_Pro" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; float: right; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="WP_20150206_14_51_49_Pro" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAKLdkx4rGPqaGNZoMbv-1zxkq6SjFaaoyC-NIIt3Nk9A2lSLffedzaYlfIqlA-hxL-g2H3niWZQOtx4koP5F7_H6OUQi8LuQ3Pa6zg-FYm-9LSPSm9ruvpfKhtNF9J0Iyfc9OMeTjF2rK/?imgmax=800" width="180" align="right" height="333"></a>he 'Imperial Bar' is also appropriately named for the bygone era. The hotel has an entertaining place to eat in the summer, called the Beachclub O. providing private terraces, facing the North Sea. Hotel van Oranje is centrally located convenient to visit Keukenhof tulips, the world's largest flower show. <p>Now that Starwood Hotels and Marriott have joined to become the world’s largest hotel company, this is one of the gems that you can receive Elite perks at. As a Marriott Rewards Platinum Elite member, I receive free breakfast at all of the Brands properties and I was delighted to partake of the sumptuous spread, buffet complete with champagne. As you can imaging, this lavish meal attracts many cheerful guests, so we were delighted to linger over breakfast while enjoying the beach view. <p>The Spa and Sauna facilities, make a wonderful retreat. I enjoyed the warm pool and children love Europe's biggest indoor wave pool with brightly colored blue and red lighting changing every few minutes. This give the swimming pool a carnival style sensation. <p>As I mentioned, it is entertaining in summer, but I also enjoy the less crowded time of the year when it is cooler and a brisk walk on the beach side of the Promenade, encountered a plaque honoring Dutch astronaut Andre Kuipers, for his Expedition in to space. I am proud to have met Andre when he was at NASA in Texas, so it was a delight to discover this Plaque. <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxvEUQ9_S_fYUgi0bazn2woaalCx8weZbd3lLlkGaXBnbpHqfat77Bux4T94qElCjxEYxA1rdFH21Yj7JAkPlK1pfUgNxh2OwQ45zOucZty8VJDzPaFWHN6PJ4meWDZ0pHXCiR83kU4-ed/s1600-h/2015-02-05-16.03.127.jpg"><img title="2015-02-05 16.03.12" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="2015-02-05 16.03.12" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9QEENYM8muPa8Unn_jCq58MsUXkPe8sKcMcFknTE8emw2joGEKjeo1nItsrACh0Vzr-n1UCvhRqds6Yg6fgeCxyy0lfUo3AVC03j82znYbgmOB2zQGBia_6kZUV56BtSRYEkQOQ6A9MFW/?imgmax=800" width="396" height="238"></a>eliteprohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12418190934363691949noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892693522236149660.post-70526587208503138262016-08-07T17:43:00.001-05:002016-08-07T17:48:02.316-05:00New ways to use miles at Airports<p>Now you can use your United miles to purchase TSA Pre✓ to get through airport security faster. Though I found the TSA line longer than the regular line at security, last time I was at the airport. United will let you use your miles for a code that covers the cost of the application fee for TSA Pre, this will last you for 5 years.It is a time saver to not have to remove shoes, laptops, liquids, belts or light jackets.<img title="tsaPre" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: right; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="tsaPre" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkUmoY-b1CcxYfw8-6o4PAjmdZCaYvERHwlUZeeP_fDNr95lXPIv6umIalsEYhX5CqxZ7S-luCr-Tr_F_50SlMvfvUuSE5WVk6KoNQABAR8mAe00m8TOjSPWw4GJ2PRO-k-1yPFEkKAC2b/?imgmax=800" width="176" align="right" height="129"></p> <p>The Premier program (the "MileagePlus Program"), has just released this new way to use your miles at the airport, but I noticed another way to use your miles at the airport in New York. <strong><font size="2">I was able to order a bite to eat on an iPad at dining tables near my gate. <br></font></strong><strong><font size="2"></font><font size="2"></font></strong></p> <p><strong><font size="1"><sub><img title="WP_20160207_09_42_55_Pro" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="WP_20160207_09_42_55_Pro" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigQNn3FxDavXobhbbodJ8M6JPBNIi4H9R7cuinFpZuAdrcnK2nbSRvnQXZ0wqCe8t3MaQZhJC0XHR-fLD5tXPasgVfsElgwNsz9n6TqD17tBkC_LQ1BJzFFhNQ5Aamj6ZvAzYdTHXahFBv/?imgmax=800" width="415" height="249"></p></sub></font></strong> <p align="left">Use your miles to book Hotel stays at brand-name hotels and resorts or use your miles to buy eGift cards and certificates for thousands of restaurants<br>or to pay for food and beverages at select Newark Airport restaurants.</p> <p align="left"> Newark Airport restaurants, let you use your miles to pay to eat at some restaurants and bars in Newark Terminal C.<br>to dine or have a drink at a participating venues. The cuisines from well-known chefs, where you can use miles include:</p> <blockquote> <p>Abruzzo Italian Steakhouse, Gate C70<br>Caps Beer Garden, Gate C124<br>Vanguard Kitchen, Gate C100 - Upscale American<br>Flora Café, Gates C112 and C133 – Mediterranean<br>Nonna's Meatball Kitchen, Gate C124<br>Oeno Wine Bar, Gate C73<br>Origami, Gate C120 – Sushi<br>Proof, Gate C102 - Tavern food and whiskey<br>Salumeria Prima, Gate C84<br>Riviera, Gate C91 – French<br>Saison, Gate C120 – French<br>Vesper Tavern, Gate C82<br></p></blockquote> <p>Beginning October 6, you will be able to book customized multi-city award travel on United.com. United is also streamlining their fee structure for changing or canceling award flights, so stay posted.</p> <p>Also new, is onboard Wi-Fi, for 10,000 miles , stay connected at 35,000 feet for 300 miles. The most popular use of miles is to get free flights and there are many ways for MileagePlus members to upgrade to premium cabins, but if you don’t want to save up miles for a free flight, you may find this attractive.</p> <p>Just a word of caution, if you buy Wi-fi, don’t fall asleep! Jeremy slept while he was charged $1,171 on Singaproe Airlines!</p> <p><img title="WP_20141121_09_54_44_Pro" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="WP_20141121_09_54_44_Pro" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY-oe8pT1VGcVDQICxdr70eAP2Pv1GqX8SS72Pl_bdv2eYfNqxjZo4V1ChJXqNYEy4mGaq6v4Uybv7pvdayALLSTxhb2QEBasAGND7Pez1luiEcaCpnq6mEoJllALCuJSspSYy8r_1bJYZ/?imgmax=800" width="397" height="238"></p>eliteprohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12418190934363691949noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2892693522236149660.post-20828963000201444522016-07-15T07:17:00.001-05:002016-07-15T07:21:53.866-05:00An excursion in to the desert and back in time.<p>Visiting the ancient Persian Ruins are the closest I will ever get to Ir<img title="snip_20160715071500" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: right; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="snip_20160715071500" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLXsXMd2gU4ANk8ixT6Js2zsQtMDc2-LYT9jBmX_lY9Olk_eX31UBAl8HB9HiLpWz3g4GIZf970mumoXiZ9WfnNTmRzMyrYxq3sAq1hXJelY8Bncvt1hcqFn41GDTw5QJX9MGgRc_AfpWa/?imgmax=800" width="102" align="right" height="170">an, so I was curious to see them even though they were destroyed by many earthquakes. Turkmenistan is fascinating but the hottest country I have ever visited, especially in the desert. I was told that they have cold and dry winters, though this was no consolation in that poorly air-conditioned environment. My hotel in Ashgabat, could not be called luxurious by any stretch of the imagination. . If there happens to be a next visit, I would choose the best hotel in the Capital, the Sofitel. <p>Turkmenistan is bordered by Iran, Afghanistan, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan and the Caspian Sea. The country became independent from the Soviet Union in 1991, then a dictator took over until <img title="sc00ba215301" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: right; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin: 9px 0px 0px 8px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="sc00ba215301" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioe7A4jKOe9iw2Pi_7oz3embhfZ5bjHHDCSLnFcx3whayG1zNAMV3FtRgYfDVpfY2zSB3HDiveLezI2_RYt4m37w-Rrdy5LVTvOQcGLqPNWsOdhKCqsS2SjpAUTUnFijqHg3kyDbf8llvb/?imgmax=800" width="165" align="right" height="244">his death in 2006. He bizarrely renamed Monday after himself and erected a 49 foot high gold statue in the capital that rotated throughout the day to face the sun. <p>I enjoyed visiting the farmers market to buy some fruit, but more so to see the floral headscarf's worn by the women. The soil is extensively irrigated, so Turkmenistan is a major global producers of cotton. They also have an oil and gas industry . <p> <p>The capital city Ashgabat was almost totally destroyed by a 1948 earthquake. The rebuilt Soviet style large grey concrete buildings are evidence that the Russians tried to re-settle their people there to dilute and suppress the Primordial Muslim community. It is one of the oldest inhabited areas on earth and I imagine that some of the people that I saw were a thousand years old, (judging by their costumes.) The exotic clothing worn by the Turkmen. (not in Turkey) in particular.<img title="clip_image002" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="clip_image002" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXPfBpOnX5Mrtccfl0QPvKar2M9lA6O5RrWbAYXfs3zgKB5TR1CHiGmM4NXNNMeOk6hMWA52tCr0Vw8Rk84pGfWEJwIPYWtLJfy3SHhJEis5ijue7MtdPnWcku2C73R3RSJM3V0WcfKV15/?imgmax=800" width="336" height="86"> <p> We had a driver take us out in to the desert to Dekhistan, the lost city of the Silk Road. It’s remote 10th century ruins make an intriguing excursion because you don’t encounter many tourists. Near the city of Mary are the ruins of the ancient Persian town of Merv. With over 4,000 years of history, this is the oldest and best preserved oasis city on the Silk Road.<img title="me with camel" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="me with camel" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeYe0tyURI9emDV-WMYEOn7VlrLaEzowYfZrYJ8_f_4UFH1tSGm8wRMNDduwALakNQ2MLdwgCjodhUHmpvxeZllr5AKpH2emQFVmgPCDEr_E9BAR5X5xVrvwXWxq3BVtQp2izgBAkMCEDt/?imgmax=800" width="244" height="195">eliteprohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12418190934363691949noreply@blogger.com0