Author: Richard Rspad
Source: articleage.com
Malaysia is a riot of color, tropics and relaxation. Sabah lodgings offer world travelers a tremendous vacation experience in this beautiful land.
Sabah Lodgings in Malaysia
You may not have heard of Sabah lodgings yet, but once you've seen what they have to offer, you'll want to take an exotic vacation right away! Sabah is located in Malaysia, in an area surrounded by lush rainforests and tropical settings that offer many different types of recreation and adventure. The capital city of the Sabah area is Kota Kinabalu, and here is where you'll land by plane to see the Sabah lodgings area.
If you don't want to travel further into Sabah away from Kota Kinabalu, you can find a great Sabah place to stay within ten miles of the city's center. Shangri-La's Tanjung Aru offers a beautiful seaside retreat. The place has 495 guest rooms, all well-equipped, and it boasts eight restaurants and bars to satisfy vacationers' needs. The Tanjung Aru also offers many different activities, such as water sports, and amenities such as a kids' club and even butler service available in your room! Malaysian cooking demonstrations and traditional rice wine tastings are also held here, so you can be sure to have an authentic Malaysian experience.
Another of the Sabah lodgings located near Kota Kinabalu is Sutera Harbour. Within Sutera Harbour there are two separate hotels: the Magellan Sutera, which houses 456 rooms and is ethnic-themed; and the Pacific Sutera, which has 500 rooms and caters more to the business traveler. Both hotels share access to leisure facilities, such as the golf course and country club, the Mandara spa, and the many different water sport and other sports and fitness areas. This resort is truly complete, and you could spend your entire vacation without leaving its confines. There are even 14 separate bars and restaurants spread throughout, meaning whatever you're in the mood for, you'll be sure to find it somewhere in the area.
While staying at Sutera Harbour, you can also take a ride on the North Borneo Railway, operated by the resort. It features a steam locomotive and six restored railway cars, and you can take a four hour tour of the Sabah main stations, all while taking a trip back to colonial times!
Sabah, Malaysia is a destination that needs to be brought into the forefront. If you are looking for an exotic island getaway and want to travel where adventure is abundant, look no further than Sabah lodgings. Staying in Malaysia is affordable and unique, and you will have some great stories to tell your family and friends.
Richard Rspad is with ResortSpaDestinations.com - reviews and articles on resorts. Visit us to read spa articles as well.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Richard_Rspad
Lodging and Entertainment Deals in Orlando Florida
Author: Art Mccarty
Source: articleage.com
Disney Area Lodging Deals
The Orlando area communities of Lake Buena Vista, Kissimmee and Davenport all leave you very close to the Walt Disney World community, as well as offer you diversity in lodging deals for your vacation. Many times, through the use of booking your lodging in advance using the world wide web, you can find great lodging deals and hotel rates. Some hotels in the Lake Buena Vista area offering specials include Courtyard Lake Buena Vista, Best Western L.B.V. Resort and Comfort Inn Lake Buena Vista.
Courtyard by Marriott conveniently has over 308 guest rooms. Each guest room includes a large desk and wireless, high speed internet access. The hotel, also, offers free transportation to all four Walt Disney World theme parks. Pricing ranges from $59.00 to $148.80 depending on the season. This is a perfect set up for a business traveler to the Lake Buena Vista area.
Best Western L.B.V. Resort, while being conveniently located right in the heart of the Disney action, offers a picturesque view of Florida's lush, green, tropical landscaping and beautiful lakes. This Best Western location recently underwent a $4 million dollar renovation and your guest room is superbly decorated to satisfaction. Not only does the hotel offer lodging deals, but you will have access to discount green fees at breathtaking Disney World golf courses! Room rates start around $63.00 per night based on season and availability.
The Comfort Inn Lake Buena Vista is ideal for families vacationing to Central Florida. The hotels has 640 guest rooms, including family fun suites, a video arcade, children's playground and welcomes pets. The Comfort Inn, also, offers free shuttles to all four Disney theme parks. Semi-Suites feature two double beds, microwave, refrigerator and coffee maker. Family Fun Suites feature a queen bed with three junior bunk beds, microwave, refrigerator and coffee maker. Rates begin around $59.95 per night. Call for pet policy!
You can find these lodging deals and many other discount lodging specials in the Lake Buena Vista area by searching the internet. Also, by using the internet to book your vacation to Central Florida's Lake Buena Vista area, you can receive lodging deals that change, according to season. Check periodically for updated lodging specials.
Attractions and Activities Near Disney Area Lodging Specials
You will never run out of things to do when taking advantage of great lodging deals in the Walt Disney World area. Aside from numerous theme parks to visit, the Disney area offers a wide variety of cuisine, shopping and nightlife. Visit Downtown Disney for shopping, dining or entertainment. Downtown Disney offers the highly acclaimed Cirque De Soleil show.
Kissimmee Lodging Specials
Kissimmee is a haven for visitors to Central Florida by providing a variety of lodging deals, restaurants, activities and shopping. Choosing a lodging special in Kissimmee leaves you close to any attraction you choose to visit, whether it be the Walt Disney World Resort, Universal Studios, Wet N' Wild Water Park or fun packed dinner shows. Kissimmee is home to three dinner shows, Arabian Nights, Capone's Dinner & Show or the famous, Medieval Times. Kissimmee is ideal for a vacationing family because you will never run out of things to do. The possibilities are endless and you will want to stay forever. Lodging Deals are endless, also, and include motels, hotels, resorts, suites, condos, villas, cabins, cottages, bed & breakfast inns and campgrounds.
Check online at http://www.floridakiss.com for information on Kissimmee and the lodging specials it offers. You will find luxury resorts, as well as names you know and trust, such as Best Western at Osceola Heritage Park and Howard Johnson Enchanted Resort.
The Best Western at Osceola Heritage Park is conveniently located on East Irlo Bronson Memorial Highway, which is home to an unimaginable amount of shopping and activity. The hotel has 146 large guest rooms featuring 25" remote control televisions, data port phones and alarm clocks. The hotel, also, offers large executive rooms that include a large desk space, king bed and an extra, sofa bed. The hotel caters to a business traveler and offers over 6,000' of space for your next seminar or business meeting. Reserve your room using the world wide web and you will find frequent lodging deals.
The Howard Johnson Enchanted Resort is located just three miles from the Walt Disney World resort and provides free shuttle service for you and your family to Disney, Universal Studios and Sea World. This resort, also, provides a name everyone can depend on. All guest rooms at the Howard Johnson Enchanted Resort include free cable television, including free HBO, safes, voice mail and coffeemakers. Also offered are accommodating are "Home Office" King Rooms, Deluxe Rooms and Kid Suites, which come standard with a microwave and mini refrigerator. Rooms start around $56 per night, but check the internet for frequent lodging deals and discounts.
Attractions & Activities Near Kissimmee Lodging Specials
Now that you have chosen your choice of lodging special, you can begin planning your activities for your stay. Of course, you will be near all the Orlando area theme parks, including Disney parks, Universal Studios and Sea World, but Kissimmee, itself, offers endless opportunities for fun and lodging deals.
Kissimmee offers dinner shows with nightly entertainment, including Capone's Dinner & Show, Arabian Nights and Medieval Times. Capone's Dinner & Show takes you back to a time of gangsters and flapper girls, while serving up a buffet style Italian feast. There is plenty of crowd interaction for a pleasing dining experience. Arabian Nights brings horses from around the world into an equestrian arena and brings to life a fairytale story featuring Kings and Queens. You will be served your dinner in the arena and interact with the show. Reservations can be made in advance online and Arabian Nights offers special group rates and discounts. Medieval Times is similar, in that it brings horses into an arena environment to showcase their talent for you, while you eat a delicious dinner. You will watch knights battle for the honor of their Kingdom and to win the heart of a certain maiden. Book your tickets online in advance for special rates.
Kissimmee, also, offers many shopping opportunities, such as Belz Factory Outlet World, The Factory Stores at Lake Buena Vista, Orlando Premium Outlets and the Mall at Millenia. Rest assured that your choice of lodging deals will leave you near all the shopping your heart could desire.
Davenport Lodging Deals
Tucked away in a quiet area of Central Florida is Davenport, but don't let that fool you. You will feel relaxed in a place far from the hustle and bustle of the everyday, but the exciting theme parks, shopping, dining and entertainment are just around the corner. Davenport offers laid back relaxation in an array of lodging specials, including Island Club West and Hampton Inn Maingate South.
Island Club West is a villa-style resort and spa offering a range of rooms up to a four bedroom suite. Two bedroom suites and larger offer guests living room and dining areas, fully equipped kitchens, spacious bedrooms, washer/dryer combos and Jacuzzi tubs. Island Club West offers 24hour maintenance and security to accommodate your needs and concerns. The amenities include a bar and grill, billiard room, tennis courts, basketball court, fitness center, video game room and volleyball court. If you and your guests choose to spend a day unwinding, Island Club West is the perfect place to do that. The kids will never get bored! Check http://www.island-club.com for frequent lodging deals.
Hampton Inn Maingate South offers 83 guest rooms with a tropical theme. This hotel is conveniently located in Davenport, offering a relaxing visit to Central Florida, but just around the corner you will find Walt Disney World theme parks, shopping and nightlife. Rates for this hotel start around $59.99. Check the internet for frequent lodging deals and availability.
Attractions Near Davenport Area Lodging Deals
Not only is Davenport a quiet alternative that is only five miles from the Walt Disney World Resort, sixteen miles from Sea World and eighteen miles from Universal theme parks, but the area offers much more! Visit the beautiful botanical gardens at Bok Tower in Lake Wales, walk through the lush, tropical setting and famous ski show at Cypress Gardens in Winter Haven and treat yourself to a relaxing day of golf at Deer Creek Golf Club or Southern Dunes Golf Club. Visit http://www.city-data.com/city/Davenport-Florida.html for more information on Davenport lodging specials and Davenport activities.
Finding Lodging Deals
The ability to find great lodging deals is right at the tip of your fingertips. Using the internet to book your trip in advance is a very smart idea. You will find that many hotels offer discounts for booking in advance. Also, you can view upcoming deals, perhaps based on the season, that hotels will be offering. No matter what time of year you choose to visit Central Florida, the fun never stops. Central Florida is alive with entertainment year round. Visit http://www.flausa.com for Central Florida lodging deals.
Art McCarty
Orlando Florida Lodging Expert
http://www.islandhideaway.net
Source: articleage.com
Disney Area Lodging Deals
The Orlando area communities of Lake Buena Vista, Kissimmee and Davenport all leave you very close to the Walt Disney World community, as well as offer you diversity in lodging deals for your vacation. Many times, through the use of booking your lodging in advance using the world wide web, you can find great lodging deals and hotel rates. Some hotels in the Lake Buena Vista area offering specials include Courtyard Lake Buena Vista, Best Western L.B.V. Resort and Comfort Inn Lake Buena Vista.
Courtyard by Marriott conveniently has over 308 guest rooms. Each guest room includes a large desk and wireless, high speed internet access. The hotel, also, offers free transportation to all four Walt Disney World theme parks. Pricing ranges from $59.00 to $148.80 depending on the season. This is a perfect set up for a business traveler to the Lake Buena Vista area.
Best Western L.B.V. Resort, while being conveniently located right in the heart of the Disney action, offers a picturesque view of Florida's lush, green, tropical landscaping and beautiful lakes. This Best Western location recently underwent a $4 million dollar renovation and your guest room is superbly decorated to satisfaction. Not only does the hotel offer lodging deals, but you will have access to discount green fees at breathtaking Disney World golf courses! Room rates start around $63.00 per night based on season and availability.
The Comfort Inn Lake Buena Vista is ideal for families vacationing to Central Florida. The hotels has 640 guest rooms, including family fun suites, a video arcade, children's playground and welcomes pets. The Comfort Inn, also, offers free shuttles to all four Disney theme parks. Semi-Suites feature two double beds, microwave, refrigerator and coffee maker. Family Fun Suites feature a queen bed with three junior bunk beds, microwave, refrigerator and coffee maker. Rates begin around $59.95 per night. Call for pet policy!
You can find these lodging deals and many other discount lodging specials in the Lake Buena Vista area by searching the internet. Also, by using the internet to book your vacation to Central Florida's Lake Buena Vista area, you can receive lodging deals that change, according to season. Check periodically for updated lodging specials.
Attractions and Activities Near Disney Area Lodging Specials
You will never run out of things to do when taking advantage of great lodging deals in the Walt Disney World area. Aside from numerous theme parks to visit, the Disney area offers a wide variety of cuisine, shopping and nightlife. Visit Downtown Disney for shopping, dining or entertainment. Downtown Disney offers the highly acclaimed Cirque De Soleil show.
Kissimmee Lodging Specials
Kissimmee is a haven for visitors to Central Florida by providing a variety of lodging deals, restaurants, activities and shopping. Choosing a lodging special in Kissimmee leaves you close to any attraction you choose to visit, whether it be the Walt Disney World Resort, Universal Studios, Wet N' Wild Water Park or fun packed dinner shows. Kissimmee is home to three dinner shows, Arabian Nights, Capone's Dinner & Show or the famous, Medieval Times. Kissimmee is ideal for a vacationing family because you will never run out of things to do. The possibilities are endless and you will want to stay forever. Lodging Deals are endless, also, and include motels, hotels, resorts, suites, condos, villas, cabins, cottages, bed & breakfast inns and campgrounds.
Check online at http://www.floridakiss.com for information on Kissimmee and the lodging specials it offers. You will find luxury resorts, as well as names you know and trust, such as Best Western at Osceola Heritage Park and Howard Johnson Enchanted Resort.
The Best Western at Osceola Heritage Park is conveniently located on East Irlo Bronson Memorial Highway, which is home to an unimaginable amount of shopping and activity. The hotel has 146 large guest rooms featuring 25" remote control televisions, data port phones and alarm clocks. The hotel, also, offers large executive rooms that include a large desk space, king bed and an extra, sofa bed. The hotel caters to a business traveler and offers over 6,000' of space for your next seminar or business meeting. Reserve your room using the world wide web and you will find frequent lodging deals.
The Howard Johnson Enchanted Resort is located just three miles from the Walt Disney World resort and provides free shuttle service for you and your family to Disney, Universal Studios and Sea World. This resort, also, provides a name everyone can depend on. All guest rooms at the Howard Johnson Enchanted Resort include free cable television, including free HBO, safes, voice mail and coffeemakers. Also offered are accommodating are "Home Office" King Rooms, Deluxe Rooms and Kid Suites, which come standard with a microwave and mini refrigerator. Rooms start around $56 per night, but check the internet for frequent lodging deals and discounts.
Attractions & Activities Near Kissimmee Lodging Specials
Now that you have chosen your choice of lodging special, you can begin planning your activities for your stay. Of course, you will be near all the Orlando area theme parks, including Disney parks, Universal Studios and Sea World, but Kissimmee, itself, offers endless opportunities for fun and lodging deals.
Kissimmee offers dinner shows with nightly entertainment, including Capone's Dinner & Show, Arabian Nights and Medieval Times. Capone's Dinner & Show takes you back to a time of gangsters and flapper girls, while serving up a buffet style Italian feast. There is plenty of crowd interaction for a pleasing dining experience. Arabian Nights brings horses from around the world into an equestrian arena and brings to life a fairytale story featuring Kings and Queens. You will be served your dinner in the arena and interact with the show. Reservations can be made in advance online and Arabian Nights offers special group rates and discounts. Medieval Times is similar, in that it brings horses into an arena environment to showcase their talent for you, while you eat a delicious dinner. You will watch knights battle for the honor of their Kingdom and to win the heart of a certain maiden. Book your tickets online in advance for special rates.
Kissimmee, also, offers many shopping opportunities, such as Belz Factory Outlet World, The Factory Stores at Lake Buena Vista, Orlando Premium Outlets and the Mall at Millenia. Rest assured that your choice of lodging deals will leave you near all the shopping your heart could desire.
Davenport Lodging Deals
Tucked away in a quiet area of Central Florida is Davenport, but don't let that fool you. You will feel relaxed in a place far from the hustle and bustle of the everyday, but the exciting theme parks, shopping, dining and entertainment are just around the corner. Davenport offers laid back relaxation in an array of lodging specials, including Island Club West and Hampton Inn Maingate South.
Island Club West is a villa-style resort and spa offering a range of rooms up to a four bedroom suite. Two bedroom suites and larger offer guests living room and dining areas, fully equipped kitchens, spacious bedrooms, washer/dryer combos and Jacuzzi tubs. Island Club West offers 24hour maintenance and security to accommodate your needs and concerns. The amenities include a bar and grill, billiard room, tennis courts, basketball court, fitness center, video game room and volleyball court. If you and your guests choose to spend a day unwinding, Island Club West is the perfect place to do that. The kids will never get bored! Check http://www.island-club.com for frequent lodging deals.
Hampton Inn Maingate South offers 83 guest rooms with a tropical theme. This hotel is conveniently located in Davenport, offering a relaxing visit to Central Florida, but just around the corner you will find Walt Disney World theme parks, shopping and nightlife. Rates for this hotel start around $59.99. Check the internet for frequent lodging deals and availability.
Attractions Near Davenport Area Lodging Deals
Not only is Davenport a quiet alternative that is only five miles from the Walt Disney World Resort, sixteen miles from Sea World and eighteen miles from Universal theme parks, but the area offers much more! Visit the beautiful botanical gardens at Bok Tower in Lake Wales, walk through the lush, tropical setting and famous ski show at Cypress Gardens in Winter Haven and treat yourself to a relaxing day of golf at Deer Creek Golf Club or Southern Dunes Golf Club. Visit http://www.city-data.com/city/Davenport-Florida.html for more information on Davenport lodging specials and Davenport activities.
Finding Lodging Deals
The ability to find great lodging deals is right at the tip of your fingertips. Using the internet to book your trip in advance is a very smart idea. You will find that many hotels offer discounts for booking in advance. Also, you can view upcoming deals, perhaps based on the season, that hotels will be offering. No matter what time of year you choose to visit Central Florida, the fun never stops. Central Florida is alive with entertainment year round. Visit http://www.flausa.com for Central Florida lodging deals.
Art McCarty
Orlando Florida Lodging Expert
http://www.islandhideaway.net
Pet Friendly Travel - 10 Tips for Hassle-Free Travel with Yo
Author: David Buster
Source: articleage.com
In the United States alone, over 60 million households have one or more pets. Pet owners in 15 million of those households travel with their pets, and the majority stay in pet-friendly lodging. Fortunately, pet friendly hotels, condos and vacation home rentals do exist.
If you will be traveling with your pet, here are some pet friendly tips to remember for safe and trouble-free travel.
1 - When you make your reservation, double-check that pets are allowed. An important advantage of reserving online is that you can see - in writing - whether or not pets are permitted and any restrictions. Online, you can print out your reservation receipt that includes the "pets allowed" information. Verbal reservations leave more room for misunderstanding and miscommunication. If reserving by telephone, ask the reservation person to mail you a confirmation receipt that includes the "pets allowed" information.
2 - Is your pet an experienced traveler? If not, you should begin getting your pet more accustomed to traveling. Begin by making your car a fun place for your pet. Get in the car with them, play with them, give them a treat - have them enjoy being there with you. Then take a short drive with them. Gradually increase the length of time and distance that you drive with them. Before making a long trip with your pet, the idea is to have them comfortable with being in the car for extended periods of time.
3 - Remember that securing your pet while traveling in the car is crucial for their safety and yours. Consider purchasing a dog safety harness for your pet to use while traveling in the car. If you have a station wagon or SUV, you can purchase a vehicle barrier that keeps your pet confined to the rear area. They are usually sold at pet stores or are available online.
4 - Be sure that your pet has an identification tag and wears it while on the trip. The tag should have your pet's name, your name and phone number. If possible, use your cell phone number, a home number and the number of where you will be staying.
5 - Carry a photograph of your pet with you on your trip. If your pet should ever become lost, you'll be able to show others exactly what your pet looks like instead of just relying on a verbal description.
6 - Check with your vet for any recommended vaccinations appropriate for your trip - exposure to ticks while hiking, exposure to other dogs while boarding or heartworm prevention if your dog will be exposed to mosquitoes are examples of important preventative measures to take before your trip. If your pet is a dog, have an up-to-date rabies tag for your dog's collar. If you decide to day board your dog while on vacation, you may be required to show paperwork proof of the rabies vaccination.
7 - Once you arrive at the pet friendly lodging, inform the check-in person that you have your pet. You can inquire if there are any restricted areas where your pet should not be taken. Pet friendly lodging staff should be very accustomed to answering these kinds of questions and will appreciate your awareness.
8 - In your hotel room, condo, cabin rental or vacation home rental - never let your pet use the furniture or beds to sit, lay or sleep on unless you've covered the furniture or bed with your own cover. Place your pet's food and water containers on a mat or newspaper in the bathroom, where cleanup will be easier. When staying in pet friendly accommodations, you may choose to feed your pet outdoors.
9 - If you'll be leaving your pet alone in the room or vacation rental, make sure the front desk or rental agent knows. Be sure that you leave your pet secured in their travel container or crate if housekeeping staff will be entering the room at any time to clean. You certainly don't want a housekeeper to enter and be surprised or even attacked by your pet! A pet may also run out of the room when housekeeping enters if left unsecured.
10 - Be very careful in warm or hot weather with leaving your pet in the car. Even when the outside temperature is only in the 70's or 80's, the interior of a vehicle can reach 100 degrees and higher, especially when parked in the sun. It doesn't take long at these temperatures to cause serious or even fatal harm to your pet.
Traveling with pets and staying in pet friendly lodging can be lots of fun - after all, your pet is part of your family too. Just using common sense and planning ahead makes for an enjoyable and surprise-free vacation.
Source: articleage.com
In the United States alone, over 60 million households have one or more pets. Pet owners in 15 million of those households travel with their pets, and the majority stay in pet-friendly lodging. Fortunately, pet friendly hotels, condos and vacation home rentals do exist.
If you will be traveling with your pet, here are some pet friendly tips to remember for safe and trouble-free travel.
1 - When you make your reservation, double-check that pets are allowed. An important advantage of reserving online is that you can see - in writing - whether or not pets are permitted and any restrictions. Online, you can print out your reservation receipt that includes the "pets allowed" information. Verbal reservations leave more room for misunderstanding and miscommunication. If reserving by telephone, ask the reservation person to mail you a confirmation receipt that includes the "pets allowed" information.
2 - Is your pet an experienced traveler? If not, you should begin getting your pet more accustomed to traveling. Begin by making your car a fun place for your pet. Get in the car with them, play with them, give them a treat - have them enjoy being there with you. Then take a short drive with them. Gradually increase the length of time and distance that you drive with them. Before making a long trip with your pet, the idea is to have them comfortable with being in the car for extended periods of time.
3 - Remember that securing your pet while traveling in the car is crucial for their safety and yours. Consider purchasing a dog safety harness for your pet to use while traveling in the car. If you have a station wagon or SUV, you can purchase a vehicle barrier that keeps your pet confined to the rear area. They are usually sold at pet stores or are available online.
4 - Be sure that your pet has an identification tag and wears it while on the trip. The tag should have your pet's name, your name and phone number. If possible, use your cell phone number, a home number and the number of where you will be staying.
5 - Carry a photograph of your pet with you on your trip. If your pet should ever become lost, you'll be able to show others exactly what your pet looks like instead of just relying on a verbal description.
6 - Check with your vet for any recommended vaccinations appropriate for your trip - exposure to ticks while hiking, exposure to other dogs while boarding or heartworm prevention if your dog will be exposed to mosquitoes are examples of important preventative measures to take before your trip. If your pet is a dog, have an up-to-date rabies tag for your dog's collar. If you decide to day board your dog while on vacation, you may be required to show paperwork proof of the rabies vaccination.
7 - Once you arrive at the pet friendly lodging, inform the check-in person that you have your pet. You can inquire if there are any restricted areas where your pet should not be taken. Pet friendly lodging staff should be very accustomed to answering these kinds of questions and will appreciate your awareness.
8 - In your hotel room, condo, cabin rental or vacation home rental - never let your pet use the furniture or beds to sit, lay or sleep on unless you've covered the furniture or bed with your own cover. Place your pet's food and water containers on a mat or newspaper in the bathroom, where cleanup will be easier. When staying in pet friendly accommodations, you may choose to feed your pet outdoors.
9 - If you'll be leaving your pet alone in the room or vacation rental, make sure the front desk or rental agent knows. Be sure that you leave your pet secured in their travel container or crate if housekeeping staff will be entering the room at any time to clean. You certainly don't want a housekeeper to enter and be surprised or even attacked by your pet! A pet may also run out of the room when housekeeping enters if left unsecured.
10 - Be very careful in warm or hot weather with leaving your pet in the car. Even when the outside temperature is only in the 70's or 80's, the interior of a vehicle can reach 100 degrees and higher, especially when parked in the sun. It doesn't take long at these temperatures to cause serious or even fatal harm to your pet.
Traveling with pets and staying in pet friendly lodging can be lots of fun - after all, your pet is part of your family too. Just using common sense and planning ahead makes for an enjoyable and surprise-free vacation.
Future looks good for UK online lodging industry
Author: Anonymous
Source: free-articles
London, UK - January 2003 - Britain is set to see a dramatic increase in the number of hotel reservations made on the Internet during the coming year. Savvy tourists are abandoning traditional shopping channels in favor of the Net when booking hotel rooms, hostels and vacation rentals. 2003 is likely to show a significant rise in online bookings thanks to recent changes in European travel shopping habits and Internet technologies.
Holidaymakers throughout Europe are showing a greater preference for booking travel online. Recent studies have identified budget airlines as being a major cause of this shift in buyer behavior. European budget carriers, which include EasyJet, Ryanair, Buzz, Virgin Express, Bmibaby and MyTravelLite now account for approximately 8 million passengers a year. Nearly all of these airlines use the Internet to minimize overheads. In an effort to reduce distribution costs, passengers are encouraged to book online. Approximately 90% of European budget airline bookings now come from the Internet. This is a boon to online lodging suppliers. A traveler who shops on the Net for his airline ticket has a strong tendency to make a hotel reservation the same way.
The UK lodging industry receives the majority of reservations from neighboring European countries. According to research conducted last year, the overall number of Europeans shopping online has shown a steady increase. During the final quarter of 2002, Europeans spent an estimated $15.77 billion on goods and services online. Research conducted by GartnerG2 states that this figure is 74.7 percent more than the preceding year. The online hotel reservation sector is expected to reap high returns due to this growth in European e-purchases. Travelers are beginning to enjoy the level of flexibility and control offered by the Internet and would rather invest an evening in surfing for the right hotel rather than entrust their holiday plans to traditional travel agents.
London is the best-positioned market within the UK to take advantage of these changes in the hotel reservation marketplace. The city is popular as both a leisure destination and a center for trade and commerce. It attracts a large number of travelers with very diverse lodging needs. This translates into many lucrative niche consumer travel groups.
Many hospitality professionals are setting up niche third-party websites that target each of these customer segments (e.g. budget accommodation for student travelers, long stay apartments, disability-friendly hotels). These niche websites lure customers by offering a good selection of inventory that best suits their target clientele, competitive rates, helpful information and secure online real-time reservation capabilities.
RoomsNet International โ€" Market Research Unit
RoomsNet International is a global network of e-lodging reservation specialists. RoomsNet enables accommodation agents, event managers, hospitality professional, tour operators, hotel reservation call-center agencies and entrepreneurs to setup niche online reservation sites and cater to the growing demands of the online lodging industry.
Source: free-articles
London, UK - January 2003 - Britain is set to see a dramatic increase in the number of hotel reservations made on the Internet during the coming year. Savvy tourists are abandoning traditional shopping channels in favor of the Net when booking hotel rooms, hostels and vacation rentals. 2003 is likely to show a significant rise in online bookings thanks to recent changes in European travel shopping habits and Internet technologies.
Holidaymakers throughout Europe are showing a greater preference for booking travel online. Recent studies have identified budget airlines as being a major cause of this shift in buyer behavior. European budget carriers, which include EasyJet, Ryanair, Buzz, Virgin Express, Bmibaby and MyTravelLite now account for approximately 8 million passengers a year. Nearly all of these airlines use the Internet to minimize overheads. In an effort to reduce distribution costs, passengers are encouraged to book online. Approximately 90% of European budget airline bookings now come from the Internet. This is a boon to online lodging suppliers. A traveler who shops on the Net for his airline ticket has a strong tendency to make a hotel reservation the same way.
The UK lodging industry receives the majority of reservations from neighboring European countries. According to research conducted last year, the overall number of Europeans shopping online has shown a steady increase. During the final quarter of 2002, Europeans spent an estimated $15.77 billion on goods and services online. Research conducted by GartnerG2 states that this figure is 74.7 percent more than the preceding year. The online hotel reservation sector is expected to reap high returns due to this growth in European e-purchases. Travelers are beginning to enjoy the level of flexibility and control offered by the Internet and would rather invest an evening in surfing for the right hotel rather than entrust their holiday plans to traditional travel agents.
London is the best-positioned market within the UK to take advantage of these changes in the hotel reservation marketplace. The city is popular as both a leisure destination and a center for trade and commerce. It attracts a large number of travelers with very diverse lodging needs. This translates into many lucrative niche consumer travel groups.
Many hospitality professionals are setting up niche third-party websites that target each of these customer segments (e.g. budget accommodation for student travelers, long stay apartments, disability-friendly hotels). These niche websites lure customers by offering a good selection of inventory that best suits their target clientele, competitive rates, helpful information and secure online real-time reservation capabilities.
RoomsNet International โ€" Market Research Unit
RoomsNet International is a global network of e-lodging reservation specialists. RoomsNet enables accommodation agents, event managers, hospitality professional, tour operators, hotel reservation call-center agencies and entrepreneurs to setup niche online reservation sites and cater to the growing demands of the online lodging industry.
What are the Lodging Options when Visiting Orlando Florida for Our Family Vacation
Author: Art Mccarty
Source: articleage.com
Lodging Hotels in Davenport, FL
There are numerous choices for lodging hotels in the Kissimmee, FL area. Vacationers most often think of the standard hotel with smaller sized room when booking travel accommodations, but considering a vacation villa could prove much more accommodating for you and your family. Island Club Resort and Spa in Davenport, FL offers villas and suites of all sizes, as well as the amenities you would expect from a five star resort. The two bedroom suites are three times the size of a normal hotel room! You can relax, kick your feet up and feel comfortable knowing you made the right choice for your resort lodging. Think you are sacrificing dining options, maid service or maintenance by choosing a villa option? Island Club Resort and Spa offers 24-hour guest services and security. If you need something at 3:00 a.m., rest assured that Island Club will be there to answer any questions you have. The resort offers on-site check-in so you will never have to drive too far to relax and settle in. Your suite not only comes with kitchenette accommodations for the convenience of cooking in your room, but the resort offers a full service restaurant. Visit http://www.island-club.com today for a virtual tour of this resort lodging option and information for booking your reservation.
Lodging Hotels in Lake Buena Vista, FL
The Sheraton Vistana Resort is only one mile from Disney's gate and minutes from Universal Studios and sits on 135 acres of tropical landscaping with lakes, fountains and waterfalls. This is another villa option that has all the amenities of a full scale resort. This lodging hotel leaves you within walking distance to the shopping, dining and attractions of Lake Buena Vista. Sheraton Vistana Resort offers one and two bedroom floor plans, seven outdoor swimming pools, poolside massages, full activities program and four restaurants to choose from, including Pizza Hut right on the property!
This resort lodging offers several villa layouts to choose from, including one and two bedroom floor plans with lock-off options. The bathrooms have whirlpool tubs and the patios are screened in for extra privacy. The rooms are decorated beautifully with lots of color and special touches for that home away from home feeling. Check online at http://www.sheraton.com for information on this and more Sheraton lodging hotels.
Resort Lodging in the Disney Area
The Disney area isn't just theme parks, but there is an entire area dedicated to shopping, unique restaurant themes, entertainment and nightlife! Downtown Disney in the Lake Buena Vista area has an array of entertainment including Cirque De Soleil's La Nouba show, Pleasure Island, which is a host to numerous nightclubs from country to rock to jazz themes, Rainforest Caf้ and shopping, shopping and more shopping. Finding a lodging hotel in this area with comfortable accommodations is an easy task and you can rest assured that you will never run out of things to do.
The Wyndham Palace Resort and Spa is an upscale resort lodging option in the Downtown Disney area with over 1,000 guest rooms and suites. You will be pampered and catered to 24/7 while staying at this resort. The amenities are top notch and guest service is their number one priority. There are 17 rooms with handicap accommodations, 124 suites and 750 non-smoking guest rooms. The rooms are decorated for a King and come with such amenities as ceiling fans, high speed internet, cordless phones, mini bars, speaker phones and desks to take care of any business you need to do away from home. This lodging hotel offers a salon, seven restaurants for breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks and even wedding services complete with wedding coordinator. Book your lodging hotel reservations online in advance and you can find upcoming special rates the Wyndham Palace Resort and Spa may offer or book today with http://www.expedia.com.
Lodging Hotels in Kissimmee, FL
Kissimmee is still in the center of all the action, shopping, restaurants and dinner shows, but you will find that it is a little more tucked away than downtown Orlando or Lake Buena Vista. You can, also, find better deals on lodging hotels in Kissimmee because of its huge draw for vacationers. Book reservations ahead of time online by doing a search on lodging hotels in Kissimmee and you will find special deals and pricing based on the season.
Mainstay Suites in Kissimmee, FL is a nice option that provides apartment style rooms complete with kitchens and fireplaces. Traveling with your pet? Mainstay Suites welcomes every member of your family, including your pets for only $10 more per night! Like hearing the word, free? This lodging hotel offers free shuttle service to Disney World and the Lake Buena Vista Factory Outlet Mall, free continental breakfast, free local calls and free daily newspaper. The hotel, also, boasts a lakefront picnic area with charcoal grills, wave runner rentals, playground, poolside bar, heated pool and Jacuzzi and a kid's movie night. The Studio Executive room is 500 square feet containing a fireplace, two closets, television, king size bed and a pull out sofa. The Family Suite sleeps up to six guests with two queen beds and a pull out sofa. The Family Suite, also, has two closets and a television. The Bi-Level Penthouse Suite is 800 square feet, contains one king size bed, a wall pull-down or Murphy bed, three closets, two televisions and two full bathrooms. If you are traveling alone or with friends or family, Mainstay Suites in Kissimmee, FL is guaranteed to have accommodations that you will find comfortable and affordable.
Resort Lodging near Universal Studios
Universal Studios, Orlando is only minutes away from Walt Disney World, downtown Orlando and International Drive, which contains endless shopping, dining and entertainment. There are many lodging hotels in the area with great deals year round for your stay. The Best Western Plaza on International Drive offers great accommodations starting around $47.95 per night or as low as $27.95 per night if you book with http://www.hotelscorp.com in advance. This lodging hotel has 672 rooms, sits between Universal Studios Orlando and Sea World Orlando and offers free shuttle service to all Orlando theme parks, including Walt Disney World.
Orlando International Resort is another comfortable option for the Universal Studios area, with average rates starting around $43.85 per night or as low as $23.85 per night when you book with http://www.hotelscorp.com in advance. Orlando International Resort offers standard accommodations at a great discount to you.
Choosing Your Lodging Hotel
Choosing your lodging hotel is an easy task, as Orlando and its surrounding communities have an array of lodging choices for you and your family. Many of these resorts, villa communities and hotels allow pets if you do not want to board your other family member. Information can be obtained easily online, so research your options well before booking your reservations. Remember that the standard hotel, although sometimes cheaper, is not always the best choice for space and convenience. Vacation Villas, such as Island Club Resort and Spa in Davenport, can give you a much more relaxed feeling for your vacation. These villa options provide more activities and comfort amenities, such as kitchenettes, so that you can spend a day relaxing away from the theme parks and shopping and the kids will never get bored. Explore your lodging hotel options online and use the virtual tours that resorts provide to get a closer look at the accommodations. Once you do this, you can feel comfortable and relaxed with your decision.
Art McCarty
Orlando Florida Lodging Expert
http://www.islandhideaway.net
Source: articleage.com
Lodging Hotels in Davenport, FL
There are numerous choices for lodging hotels in the Kissimmee, FL area. Vacationers most often think of the standard hotel with smaller sized room when booking travel accommodations, but considering a vacation villa could prove much more accommodating for you and your family. Island Club Resort and Spa in Davenport, FL offers villas and suites of all sizes, as well as the amenities you would expect from a five star resort. The two bedroom suites are three times the size of a normal hotel room! You can relax, kick your feet up and feel comfortable knowing you made the right choice for your resort lodging. Think you are sacrificing dining options, maid service or maintenance by choosing a villa option? Island Club Resort and Spa offers 24-hour guest services and security. If you need something at 3:00 a.m., rest assured that Island Club will be there to answer any questions you have. The resort offers on-site check-in so you will never have to drive too far to relax and settle in. Your suite not only comes with kitchenette accommodations for the convenience of cooking in your room, but the resort offers a full service restaurant. Visit http://www.island-club.com today for a virtual tour of this resort lodging option and information for booking your reservation.
Lodging Hotels in Lake Buena Vista, FL
The Sheraton Vistana Resort is only one mile from Disney's gate and minutes from Universal Studios and sits on 135 acres of tropical landscaping with lakes, fountains and waterfalls. This is another villa option that has all the amenities of a full scale resort. This lodging hotel leaves you within walking distance to the shopping, dining and attractions of Lake Buena Vista. Sheraton Vistana Resort offers one and two bedroom floor plans, seven outdoor swimming pools, poolside massages, full activities program and four restaurants to choose from, including Pizza Hut right on the property!
This resort lodging offers several villa layouts to choose from, including one and two bedroom floor plans with lock-off options. The bathrooms have whirlpool tubs and the patios are screened in for extra privacy. The rooms are decorated beautifully with lots of color and special touches for that home away from home feeling. Check online at http://www.sheraton.com for information on this and more Sheraton lodging hotels.
Resort Lodging in the Disney Area
The Disney area isn't just theme parks, but there is an entire area dedicated to shopping, unique restaurant themes, entertainment and nightlife! Downtown Disney in the Lake Buena Vista area has an array of entertainment including Cirque De Soleil's La Nouba show, Pleasure Island, which is a host to numerous nightclubs from country to rock to jazz themes, Rainforest Caf้ and shopping, shopping and more shopping. Finding a lodging hotel in this area with comfortable accommodations is an easy task and you can rest assured that you will never run out of things to do.
The Wyndham Palace Resort and Spa is an upscale resort lodging option in the Downtown Disney area with over 1,000 guest rooms and suites. You will be pampered and catered to 24/7 while staying at this resort. The amenities are top notch and guest service is their number one priority. There are 17 rooms with handicap accommodations, 124 suites and 750 non-smoking guest rooms. The rooms are decorated for a King and come with such amenities as ceiling fans, high speed internet, cordless phones, mini bars, speaker phones and desks to take care of any business you need to do away from home. This lodging hotel offers a salon, seven restaurants for breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks and even wedding services complete with wedding coordinator. Book your lodging hotel reservations online in advance and you can find upcoming special rates the Wyndham Palace Resort and Spa may offer or book today with http://www.expedia.com.
Lodging Hotels in Kissimmee, FL
Kissimmee is still in the center of all the action, shopping, restaurants and dinner shows, but you will find that it is a little more tucked away than downtown Orlando or Lake Buena Vista. You can, also, find better deals on lodging hotels in Kissimmee because of its huge draw for vacationers. Book reservations ahead of time online by doing a search on lodging hotels in Kissimmee and you will find special deals and pricing based on the season.
Mainstay Suites in Kissimmee, FL is a nice option that provides apartment style rooms complete with kitchens and fireplaces. Traveling with your pet? Mainstay Suites welcomes every member of your family, including your pets for only $10 more per night! Like hearing the word, free? This lodging hotel offers free shuttle service to Disney World and the Lake Buena Vista Factory Outlet Mall, free continental breakfast, free local calls and free daily newspaper. The hotel, also, boasts a lakefront picnic area with charcoal grills, wave runner rentals, playground, poolside bar, heated pool and Jacuzzi and a kid's movie night. The Studio Executive room is 500 square feet containing a fireplace, two closets, television, king size bed and a pull out sofa. The Family Suite sleeps up to six guests with two queen beds and a pull out sofa. The Family Suite, also, has two closets and a television. The Bi-Level Penthouse Suite is 800 square feet, contains one king size bed, a wall pull-down or Murphy bed, three closets, two televisions and two full bathrooms. If you are traveling alone or with friends or family, Mainstay Suites in Kissimmee, FL is guaranteed to have accommodations that you will find comfortable and affordable.
Resort Lodging near Universal Studios
Universal Studios, Orlando is only minutes away from Walt Disney World, downtown Orlando and International Drive, which contains endless shopping, dining and entertainment. There are many lodging hotels in the area with great deals year round for your stay. The Best Western Plaza on International Drive offers great accommodations starting around $47.95 per night or as low as $27.95 per night if you book with http://www.hotelscorp.com in advance. This lodging hotel has 672 rooms, sits between Universal Studios Orlando and Sea World Orlando and offers free shuttle service to all Orlando theme parks, including Walt Disney World.
Orlando International Resort is another comfortable option for the Universal Studios area, with average rates starting around $43.85 per night or as low as $23.85 per night when you book with http://www.hotelscorp.com in advance. Orlando International Resort offers standard accommodations at a great discount to you.
Choosing Your Lodging Hotel
Choosing your lodging hotel is an easy task, as Orlando and its surrounding communities have an array of lodging choices for you and your family. Many of these resorts, villa communities and hotels allow pets if you do not want to board your other family member. Information can be obtained easily online, so research your options well before booking your reservations. Remember that the standard hotel, although sometimes cheaper, is not always the best choice for space and convenience. Vacation Villas, such as Island Club Resort and Spa in Davenport, can give you a much more relaxed feeling for your vacation. These villa options provide more activities and comfort amenities, such as kitchenettes, so that you can spend a day relaxing away from the theme parks and shopping and the kids will never get bored. Explore your lodging hotel options online and use the virtual tours that resorts provide to get a closer look at the accommodations. Once you do this, you can feel comfortable and relaxed with your decision.
Art McCarty
Orlando Florida Lodging Expert
http://www.islandhideaway.net
European Hospitality Professionals Exploit Opportunities in the Online Lodging Industry
Author: Anonymous
Source: free-articles
The European e-lodging industry is witnessing the birth of a new breed of websites that market hotels, hostels and vacation rentals on the Net. These e-lodging agencies serve selected niche markets and are operated by specialist hospitality professionals who offer an extensive selection of room inventory, rates and support services to online shoppers.
Europe presently distributes less than 3% of its lodging inventory online. When booking a hotel room via the Internet, consumers have either to visit a string of individual hotel websites or a large online discounter. The former does not enable a visitor to comparison-shop and the latter offers only a limited number of lodgings per destination. Niche e-lodging agencies that focus on offering a good selection of accommodation in a given destination are best able to match consumer needs with room supply.
For many European Hospitality professionals, operating a niche e-lodging agency has proved to be a lucrative business opportunity. Hospitality industry executives, who have strong ties with hotels and resorts in a specific area, are able to obtain a good selection of room inventory from local lodging suppliers. They in turn, offer the room allotments through their websites along with other support features such as maps, local info and travel tips. The lodging agency operators earn a profit mark-up or commission on every room night sold online.
E-lodging agencies that focus on a destination or a consumer segment (apartments in London, youth hostels in Amsterdam, beach rentals in Naples etc.) are extremely popular with Net consumers. By concentrating on specific markets, hospitality executives are better able to manage their inventory and rates. It is also more cost-effective for niche agencies to focus their online marketing strategies than large online travel sites that cover many destinations.
With today's user-friendly browser based software, setting up an e-lodging agency is a breeze. The technological support required to operate an e-lodging agency can be obtained from companies who specialize in developing turnkey solutions for the online lodging industry. These solutions are offered in the form of a service with zero set-up cost. Hence, all that is needed is a PC with an Internet connection to get an online agency off the ground.
As European consumers become more comfortable with the Internet and selective in their purchases, specialized e-lodging agencies are expected to grow in both number and quality of service. For hospitality industry executives who are on the look out for new business opportunities, setting up an e-lodging agency is a lucrative prospect.
About RoomsNet
RoomsNet is a global network of e-lodging reservation specialists. We enable accommodation agents, hospitality professionals, online travel directories, tour operators, hotel reservation call-center agencies and entrepreneurs to setup niche online reservation sites and cater to the growing demands of the online lodging industry.
Uthpala Kumara
uthpala@roomsnet.com
RoomsNet International
www.roomsnet.com
Source: free-articles
The European e-lodging industry is witnessing the birth of a new breed of websites that market hotels, hostels and vacation rentals on the Net. These e-lodging agencies serve selected niche markets and are operated by specialist hospitality professionals who offer an extensive selection of room inventory, rates and support services to online shoppers.
Europe presently distributes less than 3% of its lodging inventory online. When booking a hotel room via the Internet, consumers have either to visit a string of individual hotel websites or a large online discounter. The former does not enable a visitor to comparison-shop and the latter offers only a limited number of lodgings per destination. Niche e-lodging agencies that focus on offering a good selection of accommodation in a given destination are best able to match consumer needs with room supply.
For many European Hospitality professionals, operating a niche e-lodging agency has proved to be a lucrative business opportunity. Hospitality industry executives, who have strong ties with hotels and resorts in a specific area, are able to obtain a good selection of room inventory from local lodging suppliers. They in turn, offer the room allotments through their websites along with other support features such as maps, local info and travel tips. The lodging agency operators earn a profit mark-up or commission on every room night sold online.
E-lodging agencies that focus on a destination or a consumer segment (apartments in London, youth hostels in Amsterdam, beach rentals in Naples etc.) are extremely popular with Net consumers. By concentrating on specific markets, hospitality executives are better able to manage their inventory and rates. It is also more cost-effective for niche agencies to focus their online marketing strategies than large online travel sites that cover many destinations.
With today's user-friendly browser based software, setting up an e-lodging agency is a breeze. The technological support required to operate an e-lodging agency can be obtained from companies who specialize in developing turnkey solutions for the online lodging industry. These solutions are offered in the form of a service with zero set-up cost. Hence, all that is needed is a PC with an Internet connection to get an online agency off the ground.
As European consumers become more comfortable with the Internet and selective in their purchases, specialized e-lodging agencies are expected to grow in both number and quality of service. For hospitality industry executives who are on the look out for new business opportunities, setting up an e-lodging agency is a lucrative prospect.
About RoomsNet
RoomsNet is a global network of e-lodging reservation specialists. We enable accommodation agents, hospitality professionals, online travel directories, tour operators, hotel reservation call-center agencies and entrepreneurs to setup niche online reservation sites and cater to the growing demands of the online lodging industry.
Uthpala Kumara
uthpala@roomsnet.com
RoomsNet International
www.roomsnet.com
Rough Creek Lodge Still Shines~ Luxury Resort Receives Six New Accolades in Six Months
Author: Anonymous
Source: free-articles
GLEN ROSE, TX (April 9, 2003) -- After opening its doors five years ago, Texas-based Rough Creek Lodge Executive Retreat & Resort is still a shining star. Rough Creek Lodge Executive Chef Gerard Thompson's recent award as the winner of the Flat Iron Showdown at the Texas Food & Wine Festival is the latest in a series of accolades accumulated over the last six months for outstanding lodging, cuisine and service.
Chef Thompson was the top chef chosen (out of 12) for this event, sponsored by the Texas Beef Council. Chef Thompson prepared Grilled Flat Iron Steak with Grilled Portabello Mushrooms and Sweet Corn Hash.
In addition, Chef Thompson and his culinary team are responsible for bringing national recognition to the resort in recent months. Rough Creek Lodge recently received the top score (29 out of 30) in the Zagat Survey 2003 America's Top Restaurants. The resort also received the 2003 DiRoNA award, sponsored by the Distinguished Restaurants of North America.
The resort's design and luxurious lodging facilities also received top honors. In the Conde Nast Travelers' 15th Annual Readers Choice Awards (November, 2002 issue), Rough Creek Lodge ranked number 26 in North America and number 88 in the world, with a score of 89.4, making it the only Texas hotel to be included in this prestigious list of the Top 100 Best in the World.
The resort made it once again in January 2003 when it was ranked the number one hotel in the United States for design in the Conde Nast Traveler's Gold List.
โ€œThese awards are only achieved by a team effort where all of our staff โ€" from the kitchen to housekeeping โ€" work closely to deliver the finest experience possible,โ€ says General Manager Paul Boccafogli. โ€œWith only 39 rooms and suites, we are a small property with a small staff; however, it's to our advantage because we can work hard to focus on the details that sets us apart. Whether it's preparing a special one-of-a-kind dish to adding those extra touches to a room to greeting our guest by name, it's these details that we work on to set ourselves apart. Now it's paying off, not only with the awards, but with the opportunity to bring acclaimed recognition to our community and to this region of Texas.โ€
About Rough Creek Lodge
Rough Creek Lodge Executive Retreat and Resort, situated on 11,000 acres of rolling Texas Hill Country, is a one-of-a-kind destination for executives, sportsmen and those who just want to be pampered. Opened in January 1998, this luxurious retreat features 39 guest rooms and suites and state-of-the-art boardrooms for executive meetings for 16 to 100. In January 2003, Conde Nast Traveler's Annual Gold List ranked Rough Creek Lodge the Number one hotel in North America for design. In 2002, Conde Nast Traveler ranked Rough Creek Lodge on the list of the World's Top 100 Hotels, Resorts and Cruise lines. The resort has also received national acclaim for its accommodations, dining and hunting program from such publications as Southern Living, American Way and Double Gun Journal. In the Zagat Survey, Rough Creek Lodge was the only restaurant in Dallas/Ft. Worth to receive scores of 29 for food, dรฉcor and service (out of 30). Rough Creek Lodge celebrates five years of unique and memorable experiences in 2003. For more information or to make a reservation, call 800-864-4705 or visit www.roughcreek.com
Source: free-articles
GLEN ROSE, TX (April 9, 2003) -- After opening its doors five years ago, Texas-based Rough Creek Lodge Executive Retreat & Resort is still a shining star. Rough Creek Lodge Executive Chef Gerard Thompson's recent award as the winner of the Flat Iron Showdown at the Texas Food & Wine Festival is the latest in a series of accolades accumulated over the last six months for outstanding lodging, cuisine and service.
Chef Thompson was the top chef chosen (out of 12) for this event, sponsored by the Texas Beef Council. Chef Thompson prepared Grilled Flat Iron Steak with Grilled Portabello Mushrooms and Sweet Corn Hash.
In addition, Chef Thompson and his culinary team are responsible for bringing national recognition to the resort in recent months. Rough Creek Lodge recently received the top score (29 out of 30) in the Zagat Survey 2003 America's Top Restaurants. The resort also received the 2003 DiRoNA award, sponsored by the Distinguished Restaurants of North America.
The resort's design and luxurious lodging facilities also received top honors. In the Conde Nast Travelers' 15th Annual Readers Choice Awards (November, 2002 issue), Rough Creek Lodge ranked number 26 in North America and number 88 in the world, with a score of 89.4, making it the only Texas hotel to be included in this prestigious list of the Top 100 Best in the World.
The resort made it once again in January 2003 when it was ranked the number one hotel in the United States for design in the Conde Nast Traveler's Gold List.
โ€œThese awards are only achieved by a team effort where all of our staff โ€" from the kitchen to housekeeping โ€" work closely to deliver the finest experience possible,โ€ says General Manager Paul Boccafogli. โ€œWith only 39 rooms and suites, we are a small property with a small staff; however, it's to our advantage because we can work hard to focus on the details that sets us apart. Whether it's preparing a special one-of-a-kind dish to adding those extra touches to a room to greeting our guest by name, it's these details that we work on to set ourselves apart. Now it's paying off, not only with the awards, but with the opportunity to bring acclaimed recognition to our community and to this region of Texas.โ€
About Rough Creek Lodge
Rough Creek Lodge Executive Retreat and Resort, situated on 11,000 acres of rolling Texas Hill Country, is a one-of-a-kind destination for executives, sportsmen and those who just want to be pampered. Opened in January 1998, this luxurious retreat features 39 guest rooms and suites and state-of-the-art boardrooms for executive meetings for 16 to 100. In January 2003, Conde Nast Traveler's Annual Gold List ranked Rough Creek Lodge the Number one hotel in North America for design. In 2002, Conde Nast Traveler ranked Rough Creek Lodge on the list of the World's Top 100 Hotels, Resorts and Cruise lines. The resort has also received national acclaim for its accommodations, dining and hunting program from such publications as Southern Living, American Way and Double Gun Journal. In the Zagat Survey, Rough Creek Lodge was the only restaurant in Dallas/Ft. Worth to receive scores of 29 for food, dรฉcor and service (out of 30). Rough Creek Lodge celebrates five years of unique and memorable experiences in 2003. For more information or to make a reservation, call 800-864-4705 or visit www.roughcreek.com
Five Affordable World Travel Destinations
Author: C.J. Gustafson
Source: articleage.com
Five
Affordable World Travel Destinations
Locations
That Offer More But Cost Less
So you want to travel the world but you have a tight
budget? Are you tired of reading
about everyone else's exotic adventures and ready to have some of your own?
Have you always wanted to take an international vacation but thought you
couldn't afford it? There are
numerous travel destinations across the world that are both exciting and
affordable. Five of them are
described here to give you ideas and get you started planning your own getaway.
There are two ways to approach affordable vacations to
distant destinations. Either you
will save money getting there or the savings will occur once you arrive at your
selected spot. If you want the trip
there to be affordable, many travel consolidators recommend choosing well-known
destinations that are served by numerous airlines and receive millions of
travelers each year. The
competition for customers usually drives costs down for everything from lodging
to tour packages. Airfares between
major hubs tend to be more affordable and there are often plenty of discounts
and last minute travel deals.
London
In Europe, London is a top pick for affordable vacation
destinations, for these exact reasons. Not
only do you have more flights to choose from, they are cheaper than if you flew
to a more remote location. On
average, staying in London may be a bit more expensive than other European
destinations, but the seemingly endless choices in hotels, restaurants,
transportation, tours, and other travel essentials gives travels opportunities
to mold their vacation to fit their budgets.
And you can use London as your home base to set out on day trips to other
more exotic locations or buy a Eurorail pass and see those more remote countries
without the expense of flying there.
Playa del Carmen, Mexico
This theory also works well for traveling in the Caribbean.
Belize is an appealing destination, with wonderful Caribbean beaches and
a lush tropic setting, but since it has only recently emerged as a popular
travel destination, it is more expensive than Cancun, Jamaica or other
well-traveled locations along the Mayan Riviera.
With fewer flights, getting there is more expensive, and there are few
moderate lodging options. Development
of larger luxury resorts have begun to boom, but the only real alternative for
those on a budget is staying in local facilities that may be hard to locate from
home and may be more rustic than most travelers are willing to try.
Although there are many options for affordable vacations in
the Caribbean, an excellent pick is Playa del Carmen, Mexico.
Accessible via flights to Cancun, which are often some of the cheapest in
the region, Playa is just a half hour away.
It is filled with a multitude of lodging choices, from expansive luxury
resorts on the ocean to quaint but clean hotels downtown.
From Playa, travelers can branch out and visit Tulum and other locations
on the Mayan Riviera or take the ferry across to the island of Cozumel where
snorkeling is prime and the attractions are many.
For Asian destinations, travelers often do better to focus
on saving money once they get to their destination. Depending on your country of origin, getting to just about
any spot in Asia is going to be a sizable chunk of your travel budget.
The difference will come from the cost of lodging, food, entertainment
and other travel expenditures once you arrive.
By choosing destinations where you get the most for your money, you can
save a great deal on your international vacation.
A drink or dinner in Tokyo will costs you many times more than what it
would in Saigon. The key here is to
go where you dollars buy you more and where the local cost of living is low.
Tioman Island
An affordable yet
exotic choice for Asia is Malaysia and specifically Tioman Island, knows as the mythical
'Bali Hai' from the film 'South Pacific.'
Tioman Island is located at the southern end of the east coast of
Malaysia on the South China Sea. It's sandy beaches, bordered by lush jungles
and stunning mountains make it a relaxing yet intriguing destination, ideal for
sun lovers, snorkelers and divers. The
island also has many villages for exploring and shopping.
English is widely spoken and the
rates are amazingly affordable, with a two night lodging package for a suite at
a lovely oceanside resort averaging around 100 U.S. dollars. Typically visitors reach the island via the speed ferry from
the mainland. Although the trip can
take over two hours, it is enjoyable and provides opportunities for dolphin
watching along the way.
Buenos Aires
South American also
has many destinations that are affordable because of the savings once you
arrive. Locales like Rio
de Janeiro in Brazil, the areas top destination, are coming down in price but
are still more expensive than cities such as Buenos Aires in Argentina, where
the rates are lower and the U.S. dollar goes further.
A huge metropolis that is more
European than South American, the city has much to offer including cultural
events, thriving nightlife, shopping, local sports, and a host of tours and
excursions. La Boca, with its
street performers, shops, and unique architecture is a big tourist draw.
The large number of choices for lodging, restaurants, and activities
provides opportunities for budget travel and savings.
Airfare to the city is relatively reasonable for an international
destination, with discount fares from the U.S. averaging around $500 round trip. Buenos Aires might not be one of the most exotic or inspiring
destinations in South America, but it is a city that everyone should see at
least once, and with some of the most affordable rates and fares around, it
makes the list as a top South American destination.
Las
Vegas
The list would not be complete
without a North American destination, and the champ of all affordable locales is
Las Vegas. It too is a city that
should be seen at least once, and many world travelers return again and again
for the gaming, art, shows and people watching that just can't be found
anywhere else. Close enough to
other top U.S. attractions like the Grand Canyon, Vegas provides other options
for those who have had their fill of casinos.
The city has long been known for its
cheap vacation packages with hotels and resorts that offer discount rates for
rooms, meals and entertainment in hopes of attracting people to their gaming
tables. Airfare rates into Vegas
are some of the most reasonable in the United States, no matter the origination
destination. And with more than
100,000 hotel rooms to choose from, there is sure to be a lodging choice that
fits your budget.
The world provides hundreds of affordable travel
destinations. With all the options
available, there is no excuse to put off that life-long desire to travel to
exotic places at the far ends of the earth.
Destinations can be researched on the Internet or your travel
consolidator can make recommendations and help with locating discount
flights and hotel deals that fit your budget. So
what are you waiting for? Get out
there and explore the world.
About
the Author
C.J. Gustafson is a freelance
writer and photographer who travels extensively for work and family
vacations. A cheapskate by nature and necessity, she is always on the
lookout for bargain travel deals and affordable vacation destinations.
Copyright 2005 1st-Family-Vacations.com
Source: articleage.com
Five
Affordable World Travel Destinations
Locations
That Offer More But Cost Less
So you want to travel the world but you have a tight
budget? Are you tired of reading
about everyone else's exotic adventures and ready to have some of your own?
Have you always wanted to take an international vacation but thought you
couldn't afford it? There are
numerous travel destinations across the world that are both exciting and
affordable. Five of them are
described here to give you ideas and get you started planning your own getaway.
There are two ways to approach affordable vacations to
distant destinations. Either you
will save money getting there or the savings will occur once you arrive at your
selected spot. If you want the trip
there to be affordable, many travel consolidators recommend choosing well-known
destinations that are served by numerous airlines and receive millions of
travelers each year. The
competition for customers usually drives costs down for everything from lodging
to tour packages. Airfares between
major hubs tend to be more affordable and there are often plenty of discounts
and last minute travel deals.
London
In Europe, London is a top pick for affordable vacation
destinations, for these exact reasons. Not
only do you have more flights to choose from, they are cheaper than if you flew
to a more remote location. On
average, staying in London may be a bit more expensive than other European
destinations, but the seemingly endless choices in hotels, restaurants,
transportation, tours, and other travel essentials gives travels opportunities
to mold their vacation to fit their budgets.
And you can use London as your home base to set out on day trips to other
more exotic locations or buy a Eurorail pass and see those more remote countries
without the expense of flying there.
Playa del Carmen, Mexico
This theory also works well for traveling in the Caribbean.
Belize is an appealing destination, with wonderful Caribbean beaches and
a lush tropic setting, but since it has only recently emerged as a popular
travel destination, it is more expensive than Cancun, Jamaica or other
well-traveled locations along the Mayan Riviera.
With fewer flights, getting there is more expensive, and there are few
moderate lodging options. Development
of larger luxury resorts have begun to boom, but the only real alternative for
those on a budget is staying in local facilities that may be hard to locate from
home and may be more rustic than most travelers are willing to try.
Although there are many options for affordable vacations in
the Caribbean, an excellent pick is Playa del Carmen, Mexico.
Accessible via flights to Cancun, which are often some of the cheapest in
the region, Playa is just a half hour away.
It is filled with a multitude of lodging choices, from expansive luxury
resorts on the ocean to quaint but clean hotels downtown.
From Playa, travelers can branch out and visit Tulum and other locations
on the Mayan Riviera or take the ferry across to the island of Cozumel where
snorkeling is prime and the attractions are many.
For Asian destinations, travelers often do better to focus
on saving money once they get to their destination. Depending on your country of origin, getting to just about
any spot in Asia is going to be a sizable chunk of your travel budget.
The difference will come from the cost of lodging, food, entertainment
and other travel expenditures once you arrive.
By choosing destinations where you get the most for your money, you can
save a great deal on your international vacation.
A drink or dinner in Tokyo will costs you many times more than what it
would in Saigon. The key here is to
go where you dollars buy you more and where the local cost of living is low.
Tioman Island
An affordable yet
exotic choice for Asia is Malaysia and specifically Tioman Island, knows as the mythical
'Bali Hai' from the film 'South Pacific.'
Tioman Island is located at the southern end of the east coast of
Malaysia on the South China Sea. It's sandy beaches, bordered by lush jungles
and stunning mountains make it a relaxing yet intriguing destination, ideal for
sun lovers, snorkelers and divers. The
island also has many villages for exploring and shopping.
English is widely spoken and the
rates are amazingly affordable, with a two night lodging package for a suite at
a lovely oceanside resort averaging around 100 U.S. dollars. Typically visitors reach the island via the speed ferry from
the mainland. Although the trip can
take over two hours, it is enjoyable and provides opportunities for dolphin
watching along the way.
Buenos Aires
South American also
has many destinations that are affordable because of the savings once you
arrive. Locales like Rio
de Janeiro in Brazil, the areas top destination, are coming down in price but
are still more expensive than cities such as Buenos Aires in Argentina, where
the rates are lower and the U.S. dollar goes further.
A huge metropolis that is more
European than South American, the city has much to offer including cultural
events, thriving nightlife, shopping, local sports, and a host of tours and
excursions. La Boca, with its
street performers, shops, and unique architecture is a big tourist draw.
The large number of choices for lodging, restaurants, and activities
provides opportunities for budget travel and savings.
Airfare to the city is relatively reasonable for an international
destination, with discount fares from the U.S. averaging around $500 round trip. Buenos Aires might not be one of the most exotic or inspiring
destinations in South America, but it is a city that everyone should see at
least once, and with some of the most affordable rates and fares around, it
makes the list as a top South American destination.
Las
Vegas
The list would not be complete
without a North American destination, and the champ of all affordable locales is
Las Vegas. It too is a city that
should be seen at least once, and many world travelers return again and again
for the gaming, art, shows and people watching that just can't be found
anywhere else. Close enough to
other top U.S. attractions like the Grand Canyon, Vegas provides other options
for those who have had their fill of casinos.
The city has long been known for its
cheap vacation packages with hotels and resorts that offer discount rates for
rooms, meals and entertainment in hopes of attracting people to their gaming
tables. Airfare rates into Vegas
are some of the most reasonable in the United States, no matter the origination
destination. And with more than
100,000 hotel rooms to choose from, there is sure to be a lodging choice that
fits your budget.
The world provides hundreds of affordable travel
destinations. With all the options
available, there is no excuse to put off that life-long desire to travel to
exotic places at the far ends of the earth.
Destinations can be researched on the Internet or your travel
consolidator can make recommendations and help with locating discount
flights and hotel deals that fit your budget. So
what are you waiting for? Get out
there and explore the world.
About
the Author
C.J. Gustafson is a freelance
writer and photographer who travels extensively for work and family
vacations. A cheapskate by nature and necessity, she is always on the
lookout for bargain travel deals and affordable vacation destinations.
Copyright 2005 1st-Family-Vacations.com
Niche Agencies Thrive In The Online Lodging Industry
Author: Anonymous
Source: free-articles
TORONTO, Canada, 07 May 2002 - Selling hotel rooms, condos, villas and hostels on the Internet is an estimated US$6 billion per annum business and growing very rapidly with many large online travel companies active in this market. So how does a new entrant to this market compete with the big online wholesalers who have well known brands, large advertising budgets, and cover many destinations? WITH A NICHE.
Unlike air travel and car rentals, the online lodging industry is highly fragmented. There are thousands of destinations with each one having many hundred suppliers. New online agencies are thriving in this market. Here is how you do it.
1. DEVELOP A DISTINCTIVE NICHE
Online lodging consumers tend to be very specific in their demands. They have either a particular destination or a leisure activity in mind when they begin their online hunt.
If you can't be the only hotel reservation agent on the Internet (and you can't) develop a specific niche where you can have a competitive edge. Online lodging agents can specialize in offering long stay condos in Florida, "mountain" vacations in the Rockies or casino hotel reservations in Monte Carlo. Price doesn't have to be your only competitive factor if the inventory you offer is unique.
In order to be viable, your chosen market segment must be clearly defined. Targeting "online leisure travel buyers" is not refined enough. What are their interests? Where are they from? What is their budget?
There are many market segments in the online lodging industry that are chronically under supplied. Be careful in choosing the market segment that best fits your business. Your target clientele must have a clear need for what you are selling and must be large enough to be considered a market segment.
Your niche has to be geographically feasible. It is best to concentrate on a locale where you have good contacts with hotels and accommodation suppliers. If you are a localized agent, you will be able to manage your inventory and rates better by maintaining close contacts with local lodging suppliers.
3. FOCUS YOUR ONLINE MARKETING
Niche websites are ideal for online promotion. Online consumers search for accommodations with the help of destination or activity specific keywords (e.g. London apartments, Scotland hunting lodges, Atlantic City casinos). It is more cost-effective for niche sites to focus their online marketing strategies than large online travel sites that cover many destinations.
Select a great domain name. The majority of online consumers find websites through search engines. A good URL that communicates what you are offering will help you obtain high rankings in search engines and draw targeted traffic.
Carefully decide your keyword list and keep refining it continuously. Once you have narrowed down on the keywords that your target audience is likely to type in ( e.g. New Orleans budget hotels), build the content of your website around them and use the list for all your search engine optimization programs.
Your website must be easily accessible to your target clients. Building an affiliate network is a great way to achieve this and is ideally suited for niche markets with very focused needs. This strategy involves identifying highly trafficked websites where potential consumers are likely to "hang out" and building links with those sites in order to direct traffic to your online reservation centre.
3. OFFER A COMPLETE SERVICE
Your website may have the best room inventory in Ft. Lauderdale, attractive photographs of beach front cabanas and a complete narration of all the facilities they offer. However nearly 70% of your online visitors will turn away if they have to e-mail you in order to make a reservation. They want a high level of service and require immediate confirmations. You can't waste their time. Watch out - they won't be back either.
Ensure that your website enables consumers to make quick comparisons of room rates and availability and make bookings online in real-time.
Make the shoppers' experience complete by offering flexible booking capabilities, maps, travel tips and special members offers. Offline or online, customers are always are looking for great service.
Online lodging consumers value in-depth information about a destination they wish to visit. A specialized agent is able to offer expert and up to date information about each property they offer along with activities in the area and handy travel tips. This is the unique advantage that niche "been-there-done-that" agents have over impersonal mega sites. In brief - having a localized presence and knowledge about a destination or activity builds trust and confidence in consumers.
If you are about to venture into online lodging industry, keep in mind that it offers as many challenges as great opportunities. Focus on your niche and be the best in it.
About RoomsNet
RoomsNet is an online technology and marketing services provider to the online lodging industry. RoomsNet provides customized Web based travel reservation software and marketing solutions to accommodation agents and entrepreneurs (such as ex-hotel reservation personnel) who wish to operate their own Internet reservation services and develop their own niche online lodging markets.
www.roomsnet.com
Source: free-articles
TORONTO, Canada, 07 May 2002 - Selling hotel rooms, condos, villas and hostels on the Internet is an estimated US$6 billion per annum business and growing very rapidly with many large online travel companies active in this market. So how does a new entrant to this market compete with the big online wholesalers who have well known brands, large advertising budgets, and cover many destinations? WITH A NICHE.
Unlike air travel and car rentals, the online lodging industry is highly fragmented. There are thousands of destinations with each one having many hundred suppliers. New online agencies are thriving in this market. Here is how you do it.
1. DEVELOP A DISTINCTIVE NICHE
Online lodging consumers tend to be very specific in their demands. They have either a particular destination or a leisure activity in mind when they begin their online hunt.
If you can't be the only hotel reservation agent on the Internet (and you can't) develop a specific niche where you can have a competitive edge. Online lodging agents can specialize in offering long stay condos in Florida, "mountain" vacations in the Rockies or casino hotel reservations in Monte Carlo. Price doesn't have to be your only competitive factor if the inventory you offer is unique.
In order to be viable, your chosen market segment must be clearly defined. Targeting "online leisure travel buyers" is not refined enough. What are their interests? Where are they from? What is their budget?
There are many market segments in the online lodging industry that are chronically under supplied. Be careful in choosing the market segment that best fits your business. Your target clientele must have a clear need for what you are selling and must be large enough to be considered a market segment.
Your niche has to be geographically feasible. It is best to concentrate on a locale where you have good contacts with hotels and accommodation suppliers. If you are a localized agent, you will be able to manage your inventory and rates better by maintaining close contacts with local lodging suppliers.
3. FOCUS YOUR ONLINE MARKETING
Niche websites are ideal for online promotion. Online consumers search for accommodations with the help of destination or activity specific keywords (e.g. London apartments, Scotland hunting lodges, Atlantic City casinos). It is more cost-effective for niche sites to focus their online marketing strategies than large online travel sites that cover many destinations.
Select a great domain name. The majority of online consumers find websites through search engines. A good URL that communicates what you are offering will help you obtain high rankings in search engines and draw targeted traffic.
Carefully decide your keyword list and keep refining it continuously. Once you have narrowed down on the keywords that your target audience is likely to type in ( e.g. New Orleans budget hotels), build the content of your website around them and use the list for all your search engine optimization programs.
Your website must be easily accessible to your target clients. Building an affiliate network is a great way to achieve this and is ideally suited for niche markets with very focused needs. This strategy involves identifying highly trafficked websites where potential consumers are likely to "hang out" and building links with those sites in order to direct traffic to your online reservation centre.
3. OFFER A COMPLETE SERVICE
Your website may have the best room inventory in Ft. Lauderdale, attractive photographs of beach front cabanas and a complete narration of all the facilities they offer. However nearly 70% of your online visitors will turn away if they have to e-mail you in order to make a reservation. They want a high level of service and require immediate confirmations. You can't waste their time. Watch out - they won't be back either.
Ensure that your website enables consumers to make quick comparisons of room rates and availability and make bookings online in real-time.
Make the shoppers' experience complete by offering flexible booking capabilities, maps, travel tips and special members offers. Offline or online, customers are always are looking for great service.
Online lodging consumers value in-depth information about a destination they wish to visit. A specialized agent is able to offer expert and up to date information about each property they offer along with activities in the area and handy travel tips. This is the unique advantage that niche "been-there-done-that" agents have over impersonal mega sites. In brief - having a localized presence and knowledge about a destination or activity builds trust and confidence in consumers.
If you are about to venture into online lodging industry, keep in mind that it offers as many challenges as great opportunities. Focus on your niche and be the best in it.
About RoomsNet
RoomsNet is an online technology and marketing services provider to the online lodging industry. RoomsNet provides customized Web based travel reservation software and marketing solutions to accommodation agents and entrepreneurs (such as ex-hotel reservation personnel) who wish to operate their own Internet reservation services and develop their own niche online lodging markets.
www.roomsnet.com
E-Lodging Industry Beckons New Entrepreneurs
Author: Anonymous
Source: free-articles
The e-lodging industry has moved from its early land-grab phase into an era of decentralization, stability and profitability. And many new entrepreneurs have heard it call their name.
There has never been a more exciting time to start an e-lodging business than now. Many online lodging agencies are springing up daily on the Internet. These provide e-consumers the ability to make online real-time reservations at hotels, resorts, apartments and hostels. The e-lodging agency operators earn a profit mark-up or commission fee on every booking.
Whether these new ventures are initiated by hotel reservation agents, event planners, Web designers, or hospitality industry executives starting home-based businesses, everyone is finding themselves caught up in the entrepreneurial spirit of the e-lodging industry.
What has led to this e-lodging agency boom?
First, there is the crumbling relationship between suppliers and traditional distribution channels. In a survey conducted by Forrester Research last year, only 6% of lodging suppliers stated that conventional Global Distribution Systems were adequately designed to meet their business needs. Many lodging suppliers are actively seeking new intermediaries to market their room inventory to Net consumers
Then, there is the sharp downsizing in the travel industry. In an effort to be leaner and meaner, the hotel and restaurant industries had eliminated nearly 87,000 jobs by December 2001. Career-minded professionals can no longer expect job security the way they could in the past. Hence, it is little wonder that individuals with skills, self-confidence and motivation are setting up their own online lodging businesses.
Who are the new entrepreneurs?
The success rate is high for e-lodging agency startups by accommodation agents. These agents have strong links with the hotel industry. They traditionally market room inventory through their own reservation call centers. Some even operate websites with booking request forms. For many of these accommodation agents, making the whole reservation process online real-time, is a natural business transition.
Event managers and event planning agencies are also gravitating toward the e-lodging industry. The usual story runs like this โ€" an event manager specializes in organizing casino hotel breaks for large corporate clients. He receives a good commission from the hotels for every sizable group booking he makes. He contracts with the same casino hotels to sell room inventory to online consumers through his website andโ€ฆVoila! He's an e-lodging agent with a niche market! He now earns more commissions, incurs minimum overhead costs and has the ability to reach out to millions of e-consumers.
Another segment that has successfully entered the online accommodation arena are Web designers who build websites for hotels and resorts. After creating a series of such websites, the web designers go on to build online travel directories that link all the individual hotel sites together. The next step is to enable visitors to make reservations online in real-time at the hotels and resorts listed in the directory. Apart from the usual site development and hosting fees, the web designers earn a tidy commission for every booking that is generated through the directory.
As the concept of the home office continues to rise in popularity, many hospitality industry executives are launching home-based online lodging ventures. In the new economy, a PC with an Internet connection is all you need to get an e-lodging business off the ground. Armed with good contacts in the hotel industry and a thorough understanding of the local travel market, these entrepreneurs are successful in developing highly profitable lodging agencies on the Internet.
The e-lodging industry, which expands in size as it fragments in distribution, has created many real openings for enterprising individuals. The hardest task is not finding a business opportunity but making the decision to be an entrepreneur. If you have identified a niche e-lodging market that you can successfully serve, now is the best time to get moving!
About RoomsNet
RoomsNet is a global network of e-lodging reservation specialists. We enable accommodation agents, event managers, travel agents, tour operators, hotel reservation call-center agencies and entrepreneurs to setup niche online reservation sites and cater to the growing demands of the online lodging industry.
Source: free-articles
The e-lodging industry has moved from its early land-grab phase into an era of decentralization, stability and profitability. And many new entrepreneurs have heard it call their name.
There has never been a more exciting time to start an e-lodging business than now. Many online lodging agencies are springing up daily on the Internet. These provide e-consumers the ability to make online real-time reservations at hotels, resorts, apartments and hostels. The e-lodging agency operators earn a profit mark-up or commission fee on every booking.
Whether these new ventures are initiated by hotel reservation agents, event planners, Web designers, or hospitality industry executives starting home-based businesses, everyone is finding themselves caught up in the entrepreneurial spirit of the e-lodging industry.
What has led to this e-lodging agency boom?
First, there is the crumbling relationship between suppliers and traditional distribution channels. In a survey conducted by Forrester Research last year, only 6% of lodging suppliers stated that conventional Global Distribution Systems were adequately designed to meet their business needs. Many lodging suppliers are actively seeking new intermediaries to market their room inventory to Net consumers
Then, there is the sharp downsizing in the travel industry. In an effort to be leaner and meaner, the hotel and restaurant industries had eliminated nearly 87,000 jobs by December 2001. Career-minded professionals can no longer expect job security the way they could in the past. Hence, it is little wonder that individuals with skills, self-confidence and motivation are setting up their own online lodging businesses.
Who are the new entrepreneurs?
The success rate is high for e-lodging agency startups by accommodation agents. These agents have strong links with the hotel industry. They traditionally market room inventory through their own reservation call centers. Some even operate websites with booking request forms. For many of these accommodation agents, making the whole reservation process online real-time, is a natural business transition.
Event managers and event planning agencies are also gravitating toward the e-lodging industry. The usual story runs like this โ€" an event manager specializes in organizing casino hotel breaks for large corporate clients. He receives a good commission from the hotels for every sizable group booking he makes. He contracts with the same casino hotels to sell room inventory to online consumers through his website andโ€ฆVoila! He's an e-lodging agent with a niche market! He now earns more commissions, incurs minimum overhead costs and has the ability to reach out to millions of e-consumers.
Another segment that has successfully entered the online accommodation arena are Web designers who build websites for hotels and resorts. After creating a series of such websites, the web designers go on to build online travel directories that link all the individual hotel sites together. The next step is to enable visitors to make reservations online in real-time at the hotels and resorts listed in the directory. Apart from the usual site development and hosting fees, the web designers earn a tidy commission for every booking that is generated through the directory.
As the concept of the home office continues to rise in popularity, many hospitality industry executives are launching home-based online lodging ventures. In the new economy, a PC with an Internet connection is all you need to get an e-lodging business off the ground. Armed with good contacts in the hotel industry and a thorough understanding of the local travel market, these entrepreneurs are successful in developing highly profitable lodging agencies on the Internet.
The e-lodging industry, which expands in size as it fragments in distribution, has created many real openings for enterprising individuals. The hardest task is not finding a business opportunity but making the decision to be an entrepreneur. If you have identified a niche e-lodging market that you can successfully serve, now is the best time to get moving!
About RoomsNet
RoomsNet is a global network of e-lodging reservation specialists. We enable accommodation agents, event managers, travel agents, tour operators, hotel reservation call-center agencies and entrepreneurs to setup niche online reservation sites and cater to the growing demands of the online lodging industry.
Travel Destinations On Africa's West Cape: Knysna
Author: Marcela Devivo
Source: articledashboard.com
About Knysna
Knysna is a lovely area located on Africa's 'Garden Route.' The garden route is one of Africa's main locations for travelers and stretches along South Africa's Coast. Knysna is located between the Outeniqua Mountains and the Indian Ocean. Knysna's name is thought to derive from the Khio word for 'straight down.'
This name reflects Knysna lagoon's steep monoliths, appropriately called 'The Heads.' Knysna has a mild Mediterranean Maritime climate that ensures year-round greenness and impressive flora and fauna. It is a great vacation location for travelers looking for vacations out of the ordinary.
Traveling in Knysna
There are myriad activities to enjoy in Knysna, from exploring its blue lagoon to hiking in its Tsitsikamma National Park area. Travel is easy; you can rent a car, take a taxi, walk around, or rent bikes. Keep in mind, however, that during high tourist seasons, traffic can be bad, so you're better off going with any of the other options.
Knysna has multiple golf courses, shops and cafes, all near the amazingly blue lagoon at the center of Knysna. One of the most fun activities if you're traveling in Knysna is visiting the elephant park. Here you can visit and interact with the elephants by feeding and touching them. It is an amazing experience and one that should be explored if you're traveling through or to Knysna.
Traveling to locations near Knysna
From Knysna, other locations are accessible by minibus, taxi, or rental car; travel is thus fairly easy. It is about five hundred kilometers to Cape Town and around two hundred and fifty kilometers to Port Elizabeth.
To and from Knysna, there is also an old, historical steam train that travels between Knysna and George (the local airport) and is a great way to take in some excellent scenery. Another small village on the sea near Knysna is Brenton-on-the-Sea, and it is here that you will find even more secluded beaches.
Eating in Knysna
There are a number of restaurants that line the lagoon's waterfront. You don't need to travel far to enjoy excellent sea food and other dishes. There is a local brewery in town that also offers tastings and tours.
Travel Lodging in Knysna
There are a number of excellent hotels, guesthouses, and Bed & Breakfasts for travelers to choose from in Knysna, though price and availability tends to be limited in the high tourist seasons. If you have your own transportation, you can also check out nearby Buffalo Bay or Brenton-on-the-Sea.
www.todaystravel.com
Source: articledashboard.com
About Knysna
Knysna is a lovely area located on Africa's 'Garden Route.' The garden route is one of Africa's main locations for travelers and stretches along South Africa's Coast. Knysna is located between the Outeniqua Mountains and the Indian Ocean. Knysna's name is thought to derive from the Khio word for 'straight down.'
This name reflects Knysna lagoon's steep monoliths, appropriately called 'The Heads.' Knysna has a mild Mediterranean Maritime climate that ensures year-round greenness and impressive flora and fauna. It is a great vacation location for travelers looking for vacations out of the ordinary.
Traveling in Knysna
There are myriad activities to enjoy in Knysna, from exploring its blue lagoon to hiking in its Tsitsikamma National Park area. Travel is easy; you can rent a car, take a taxi, walk around, or rent bikes. Keep in mind, however, that during high tourist seasons, traffic can be bad, so you're better off going with any of the other options.
Knysna has multiple golf courses, shops and cafes, all near the amazingly blue lagoon at the center of Knysna. One of the most fun activities if you're traveling in Knysna is visiting the elephant park. Here you can visit and interact with the elephants by feeding and touching them. It is an amazing experience and one that should be explored if you're traveling through or to Knysna.
Traveling to locations near Knysna
From Knysna, other locations are accessible by minibus, taxi, or rental car; travel is thus fairly easy. It is about five hundred kilometers to Cape Town and around two hundred and fifty kilometers to Port Elizabeth.
To and from Knysna, there is also an old, historical steam train that travels between Knysna and George (the local airport) and is a great way to take in some excellent scenery. Another small village on the sea near Knysna is Brenton-on-the-Sea, and it is here that you will find even more secluded beaches.
Eating in Knysna
There are a number of restaurants that line the lagoon's waterfront. You don't need to travel far to enjoy excellent sea food and other dishes. There is a local brewery in town that also offers tastings and tours.
Travel Lodging in Knysna
There are a number of excellent hotels, guesthouses, and Bed & Breakfasts for travelers to choose from in Knysna, though price and availability tends to be limited in the high tourist seasons. If you have your own transportation, you can also check out nearby Buffalo Bay or Brenton-on-the-Sea.
www.todaystravel.com
Is Timeshare a Good Idea For Travelers Lodging Accommodations?
Author: Peter Van Den Broeck
Source: ezinearticles.com
In order to understand the significance and important differences between vacationing in a time share product or in a commercially run hotel or vacation rental, we need to start with a pro on the TS side: when buying a Time Share you are investing (?) in your vacation plans as an owner of a unit for one week and for so many years. The pro: you buy cheap. The con however, you are a one week owner and there is officially another 51 owners of that unit. Easy enough to understand, correct? The fact of the matter is: you, the buyer, are not an owner of a property, you are an owner of a week vacation for whatever time frame and in some cases you are a 'share' holder, literally and figuratively speaking. It is all in the name Time and Share.
Come down to the renter of such a unit. A hotel is run and held by ownership and professionally managed, so is any vacation rental home, condo or town home. The maintenance, interior decorations, furniture, investments and improvements, interest in the property is in care of one person.
It speaks for itself, the time share unit is not.
A renter has to bear in mind that the purpose of a hotel or a privately owned property is to accommodate a guest. The Time Share however has a different purpose: it is a large sales office with a fresh load of prospect buyers when the vacationers arrive. Knowing the difference in purpose one has to wonder why is a TS rental (sometimes) cheaper than a privately owned vacation rental or hotel? For the Time Share business the job only starts or gets interesting the moment a new load of prospects just comes in. Therefore, the TS business is not renting accommodations as such, but gathering prospects, at whatever cost/price.
The hotel or vacation rental business on the other hand, their job is accomplished when have won the guest trust and beat the competition. When the vacationer arrives it is their expertise and customer service that will comfort the vacationer and make him or her a returning customer.
In all fairness, price may be a decisive factor for guests to go on vacation... as long as you know where you are going or what you are to expect of your vacation. Safe travels!
Source: ezinearticles.com
In order to understand the significance and important differences between vacationing in a time share product or in a commercially run hotel or vacation rental, we need to start with a pro on the TS side: when buying a Time Share you are investing (?) in your vacation plans as an owner of a unit for one week and for so many years. The pro: you buy cheap. The con however, you are a one week owner and there is officially another 51 owners of that unit. Easy enough to understand, correct? The fact of the matter is: you, the buyer, are not an owner of a property, you are an owner of a week vacation for whatever time frame and in some cases you are a 'share' holder, literally and figuratively speaking. It is all in the name Time and Share.
Come down to the renter of such a unit. A hotel is run and held by ownership and professionally managed, so is any vacation rental home, condo or town home. The maintenance, interior decorations, furniture, investments and improvements, interest in the property is in care of one person.
It speaks for itself, the time share unit is not.
A renter has to bear in mind that the purpose of a hotel or a privately owned property is to accommodate a guest. The Time Share however has a different purpose: it is a large sales office with a fresh load of prospect buyers when the vacationers arrive. Knowing the difference in purpose one has to wonder why is a TS rental (sometimes) cheaper than a privately owned vacation rental or hotel? For the Time Share business the job only starts or gets interesting the moment a new load of prospects just comes in. Therefore, the TS business is not renting accommodations as such, but gathering prospects, at whatever cost/price.
The hotel or vacation rental business on the other hand, their job is accomplished when have won the guest trust and beat the competition. When the vacationer arrives it is their expertise and customer service that will comfort the vacationer and make him or her a returning customer.
In all fairness, price may be a decisive factor for guests to go on vacation... as long as you know where you are going or what you are to expect of your vacation. Safe travels!
The writer is based in Orlando Florida and specializes in vacation rental homes, condos and town homes near Disney World. Although Orlando is indisputably the #1 Time Share market in the world, there is no place for Time Share in the inventory of Discount Vacation Rentals Online
Find vacation rental homes in Orlando with Discount Vacation Rentals Online, complete inventory of vacation homes, condos and town homes for rent near Disney World.
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