Luxury Link Partners with Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group
Posted November 10, 2009 , comments closed) Los Angeles (November 4, 2009) - Luxury Link (www.luxurylink.com), the world’s leading luxury travel website, announces its partnership with Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group (www.mandarinoriental.com). Mandarin Oriental properties join Luxury Link’s esteemed portfolio of world-class hotels, resorts and tour companies in over 60 countries, gaining instant access to the sophisticated Luxury Link consumer.
“We are delighted to feature Mandarin Oriental hotels on the Luxury Link site which is synonymous with quality,” said Cordula Laemmermann, Vice President Global Revenue Management at Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group. “We look forward to welcoming their customers to our award-winning properties around the world”.
Luxury Link customers will have full access to a rotating roster of Mandarin Oriental packages, bookable directly on the Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group web site to ensure up-to-the minute, best pricing. In addition, Luxury Link travelers have the opportunity to bid on charity auctions sponsored by Mandarin Oriental as well as gain access to Private Auction Events featuring select properties. Luxury Link will also feature an exclusive section highlighting the latest news, photos and promotions from Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group (http://www.luxurylink.com/mini/mandarin.php).
“Mandarin Oriental properties have a distinct style, combining the highest standards of luxury with award-winning service,” said Diane McDavitt, President and Co-Founder of Luxury Link. “Their focus on customer service and creating unforgettable experiences for their guests makes them an ideal partner for Luxury Link. We are pleased to be making this acclaimed luxury collection available to our consumers.”
About Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group
Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group is the award-winning owner and operator of some of the world’s most prestigious hotels, resorts and residences. Mandarin Oriental now operates, or has under development, 41 hotels representing over 10,000 rooms in 25 countries, with 17 hotels in Asia, 14 in The Americas and 10 in Europe and North Africa. In addition, the Group operates, or has under development, 13 Residences at Mandarin Oriental, connected to the Group’s properties.
About Luxury Link
Founded in 1997, Luxury Link is where sophisticated travelers go for inspiration, to indulge their passion for discovering the world’s best places to stay and exceptional values. Showcasing hundreds of extraordinary hotels and resorts, cruises, tours and villas in more than 60 countries, LuxuryLink.com provides unparalleled access to exclusive offers and insider tips for the sophisticated traveler. For more information, please visit www.luxurylink.com or call 1-888-297-3299.
Madrid’s Top 5 Day Trips
Posted October 23, 2009 , comments closedThe Spanish capital, Madrid, isn’t exactly short of things to do. But for those who have got a little more time to explore, there are some awesome day trips from Madrid available. There are a series of interesting cities that are either a short distance away or can be reached in surprisingly quick times via high speed train. Whether it’s mosques, cathedrals and castles or a carnivorous feast on local specialities, these cities have plenty to offer. And then there are the royal and literary hang-outs that are just on Madrid’s door step…
We could have gone for more, but here are five of the best Madrid day trip options in central Spain.
Madrid day trip: Córdoba
Inside the Mezquita, in Cordoba
High-speed rail has opened up amazing possibilities in Spain – especially for those who want to see a lot but have limited time. Seville is often cited as a major beneficiary – the high speed train journey takes two-and-a-half hours, meaning it’s possible to do a day trip there from Madrid (click here for Madrid Toledo tours on Viator.)
But don’t overlook Córdoba. It’s closer (around one hour and 45 minutes on the train), and there’s a reason that it often crops up on Best Destination lists when readers vote in travel magazine polls.
Córdoba is packed with history – it was once the seat of an all powerful Islamic caliphate, and was regarded as the most advanced, enlightened city in Europe.
In the 10th century it was arguably the biggest city in the world, with an estimated 500,000 inhabitants. Architecture spans the ages – from Roman times to when there was a thriving Jewish population. The Jewish quarter is hugely atmospheric, and it leads to what is undoubtedly Córdoba’s star attraction.
The Mezquita is a cathedral that was once a mosque – and it’s a must-see, even for people who hate touring around cathedrals. Inside is an eye-popping series of red and yellow archways. There are hundreds of them, and it has a mesmerising effect as you wander through. (Note Viator has a highly rated 4-day tour of Spain from Madrid that includes Cordoba.)
Madrid day trip: Segovia
Segovia is another city that has benefited from the high speed connection to Madrid – it’s now just over half an hour away from the Spanish capital. It’s a spectacularly located city, sitting above the parched, dusty plains, and it’s loveable from the moment you first set eyes on the aqueduct.
The Roman-built aqueduct is Segovia’s most iconic image, and an astounding feat of engineering. It’s made entirely without cement or concrete, and consists of a series of narrow, spindly archways towering over the rooftops.
Segovia, from the top of the Alcazar
The second major attraction is the Alcazar, which can be found at the other end. The tale goes that this was the building on which the castle for Disney’s Sleeping Beauty was based. It certainly has fairytale looks, and the views from the top of the tower are awesome.
But it’s just as impressive inside – the rooms are lavishly decorated, and the one that is ringed by busts of Spain’s kings and queens is particularly intriguing.
For foodies, however, the Alcazar and aqueduct will be of secondary importance. Segovia is renowned for its suckling pig and lamb. Vegetarians will not be too impressed, but the more carnivorously inclined should brace themselves for huge plates of some of the most tender meat they will ever encounter.
It’s a good job that it’s a fair walk from the aqueduct to the Alcazar – it’s possible to walk off some of that extra bulk on the way. (Note: Viator has a popular day trip from Madrid to Segovia and Avila.)
Madrid day trip: Alcalá de Henares
Part of Madrid’s surrounding area (or Comunidad), Alcalá is essentially a suburb of the Spanish capital. It’s an instantly likeable place of cobbled, winding streets and large public squares. In terms of architecture, its grand cathedral and university buildings are enough to draw in the punters who aren’t there for literary reasons.
Segovia’s famous aqueduct
For the book lovers, however, the major reason to visit Alcalá de Henares is that it is the birthplace of Miguel de Cervantes. The famous Spanish author is often regarded as the second greatest of all time after William Shakespeare, and his classic Don Quixote is regularly cited as the best book ever written.
Those wanting to find out more about Alcalá’s most famous son can visit the Cervantes birthplace museum but a better bet is to turn up in April.
Cervantes died on April 23rd, 1616 - coincidentally the same date Shakespeare died - and this has been declared UNESCO World Book Day. In Alcala, it becomes a major event, coinciding with the awarding of the Cervantes Prize. This is given out by the King of Spain to the author of the best book in the Spanish language from the preceding year. It’s all highly prestigious, and the satellite town takes on a whole different air.
Madrid day trip: El Escorial
Approximately 45km to the north-west of central Madrid, El Escorial is arguably Spain’s most impressive royal site. It’s in the Sierra de Guadarrama, the mountain range that forms the natural boundary for the community of Madrid. The range is excellent for walking in (and even skiing in winter) but El Escorial is the high point for most.
It’s split into two parts – a huge monastery and a royal hunting lodge – although it’s the monastery that most associate with the name. Inside are some fabulous artworks, including the Hall of Battles where frescos commemorate memorable Spanish military victories.
Statue at El Escorial monastery
The most important part, however, is the Pantheon of the Kings. This is where all Spanish kings and queens are buried, and it looks suitably grand. The marble walls are adorned with gold-plated bronze. The monks – an Augustinian order – still live at El Escorial and help to maintain it. (Check Viator’s tours from Madrid to El Escorial for more day trip options.)
Madrid day trip: Toledo
Madrid may be the current Spanish capital, but Toledo used to be. And for heritage junkies, Toledo makes a perfect day trip from Madrid. It has strong Jewish, Muslim and Christian heritage, with the synagogues, mosques and churches being amongst the more obvious sights. The cathedral, in particular, is a highlight. It’s an enormous Gothic structure, and lavishly decorated inside.
The Alcazar (or fortress) is the other big set piece. It has been, in turn, a royal palace and an infantry training academy. It’s now home to the army museum.
For art fans, the place to go to is the Museo El Greco. Although born in Crete, El Greco is widely considered to be the finest Spanish artist of all time, and the museum plays host to much of his work.
The most endearing thing about Toledo (providing you don’t arrive on a day when it’s crammed with tourists), however, is simply ambling along the narrow, winding streets. The city is a little maze-like, but tremendously atmospheric.
-David Whitley
Planning a trip? Browse Viator’s Madrid tours & things to do in Madrid and Madrid day trips.
8 Small and Beautiful Italian Islands You’ve Probably Never Heard Of
Posted , comments closed8 Small and Beautiful Italian Islands You’ve Probably Never Heard Of
One of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, Italy has few, if any, unexplored corners. Places like Capri or Taormina can sometimes seem like a caricature of themselves, their natural beauty suffocating amidst tourist hoards and souvenir shops.
Yet, many spots are still as authentic and pristine as they were some 50 years ago. Italian islands that have escaped the trap of mass tourism are fascinating in their rugged beauty. Some of these islands have only limited tourist facilities, and you may find yourself the only English-speaking person around. Others are more developed, have their own airports, and can get very busy in August – the peak season. Their popularity ranges from unpolished and virtually unknown to non-Italians to those that are frequented by the rich and the famous. What these unique islands have in common is unspoilt nature – and total absence of package tourists.
Giglio
The island of Giglio belongs to the Tuscan Archipelago, famous for the bigger and much more crowded Elba and the uninhabited Montecristo Island. Giglio is basically a granite rock with only a few patches of cultivated land and a wild untouched feeling about it.
It has a handful of hotels and restaurants, which are quite modest, but offer very good value for money. Giglio is a good base to explore other Tuscan islands. However, keep in mind that the Tuscan archipelago is a marine reserve and access to some islands, notably Montecristo and Pianosa, is restricted to protect the environment. Besides, the island of Gorgona is a site of a penal colony, and no tourists are allowed to disembark on it.
Getting there: By ferry from Porto Santo Stefano in Tuscany. Ferries run several times each day throughout the year.
Pantelleria
This arid and incredibly windy volcanic island has been a favourite retreat of many celebrities, including Gérard Depardieu, Sting and Madonna. Pantelleria is an enchanted place, with steam spraying from the rocks, with mud baths and sauna caves, fumaroles and thermal sources. The emerald Specchio di Venere lake has healing waters that are fed by thermal springs.
Pantescan dammusi, unique lava stone houses with whitewashed cupola roofs, have been converted into chic hotels or solitary rented homes. A visit to Pantelleria is also a gastronomic delight. Highly recommended is the local Passito wine and dishes such as bitter ravioli, stuffed aubergines, fish couscous and the famous capers.
Getting there: Daily overnight ferries run from Trapani year round, with faster hydrofoil services available in the summer months. Planes fly in daily from Palermo and Trapani, with additional direct flights from Rome and Milan in the summer.
Lampedusa
Of all the Italian islands, Lampedusa is perhaps the most notorious due to its illegal immigrant problem. This southernmost Italian territory is situated just 113 km from Tunisia and is geographically in Africa rather than Europe.
It could have been described as bleak and arid, had it not been for some of Italy’s most beautiful beaches and lagoons. One of the cultural highlights of the island is on the 22nd of September, when a festival of Madonna di Lampedusa is celebrated with fireworks, processions, games and concerts.
Getting there: Siremar ferries from Porto Empedocle near Agrigento run all year, on most, but not all, days of the week.
Ponza
Ponza is a beautiful, narrow and long island with ragged coast, cliffs, hidden coves and beaches, and picturesque houses lining the slopes of the hills. It is a well known and well-visited, yet largely unspoilt island where life seems to flow as it always has, untouched by the rush of meodernity.
The downside of Ponza’s popularity is a certain lack of privacy, but the facilities are many and the hotels good. The most dramatically beautiful spot of the island is the beach of Chiaia di Luna, which can only be reached through a Roman tunnel.
Getting there: The easiest way to reach Ponza is from Naples by SNAV hydrofoil with a connection at Ventotene.
Panarea
The smallest of the fabled Aeolian islands, Panarea is the favourite of the jet-set crowd. However, this island with a population of just over 200 is too small to accommodate any substantial number of tourists, and has only a handful of unique hotels and rented homes. Boasting views of Stromboli, Panarea is a paradisical get-away-from-it-all island with a lifestyle as laid-back and relaxed as it can get in Italy. No cars are allowed, and the only modes of transportation are the electric golf buggies and a few scooters.
Watching the stars is a truly magical experience on Panarea. There is no electric street lighting, only Moroccan lamps and lanterns to light up outside stairs and terraces in the dark.
Getting there: Siremar and Ustica Lines have daily hydrofoil services from Milazzo and Messina. There is also a hydrofoil and ferry connection from Naples, Palermo and Cefalú several times a week.
Favignana
Favignana, off Trapani in Sicily, is a smooth, sun-drenched and wind-blown island. Accommodation is simple and family-run and the lifestyle is unpretentious. Favignana’s western part is dominated by Montagna Grossa which, despite its name, rises to a mere 302m.
The eastern part of the island, is flatter and the jagged coastline is interrupted, here and there, with short stretches of sandy beach. You can take a boat from Favignana to other Egadi islands, of which Levanzo is particularly beautiful, even if somewhat unkempt.
Getting there: there are ferry and hydrofoil services from Trapani every day, operated by Siremar and Ustica Lines, as well as additional ferry services from Naples during the peak summer months (June to September)
La Maddalena
Off the north-east coast of Sardinia, La Maddalena islands boast pink sandy beaches and crystal clear waters. The main and the largest island that gave the name to the archipelago has a population of about 11 000.
La Maddalena is linked to the island of Caprera by a 600 metre long dam and together they are the only inhabited islands of the archipelago. The US Navy has a submarine tender stationed on the island of Santo Stefano, and consequently you will find many Americans living on La Maddalena. It is worth visiting the minor islands – Budelli, Razzoli and Santa Maria, which together form a beautiful lagoon of Porto Madonna.
Getting there: Year-round ferries from Palau in Northern Sardinia run frequently, up to four times an hour, 24 hours a day.
San Domino
The biggest of the Tremiti Islands off the Adriatic coast of Italy, San Domino is one of those hidden gems few people have heard of. Because of its isolated nature, in the year 1000 it was chosen as an hermitage for Benedictine monks, who subsequently moved to the neighbour island of San Nicola.
San Domino has a rugged coastline with secluded coves and beaches, where fragrant pine woods go right to the water’s edge. It is a diver’s paradise with rich marine life, underwater caves and even a Roman shipwreck. San Domino is the only of the Tremiti islands with tourist accommodation, even though San Nicola is the official administrative centre.
Getting there: Tirrenia Ferries operates daily services from Termoli year round (one hour by train from the nearest airport of Pescara in Abruzzo).
Carrentals.co.uk Reports Bumper Summer Season
Posted , comments closed) Car hire comparison site Carrentals.co.uk is reporting a 38% year on year increase in its summer bookings, (1 June 31st August), and a corresponding 72% increase in revenue, despite the difficult and unpredictable economic climate.
The company, which compares car hire deals from over 35 rental companies including Alamo, Budget, Holiday Autos and Sixt, says the biggest increases were seen in a number of European locations including Valencia, Cagliari, Gerona and Glasgow airports.
Gareth Robinson, Managing Director of www.carrentals.co.uksays: “Despite concerns over the tourism market at the start of the year, our strategy has seen our sales performance outstrip targets across the board. All of our target locations have delivered booking volumes significantly up on last year’s figures, showing the demand that still exists in the market.”
Carrentals.co.uk, a previous winner of the Travolution Awards, and nominated again this year, has continued to show major growth since it re-launched as a comparison site in 2007. It has achieved strong profit growth year-on-year in the last two years, and is on track for a record financial performance this year, which ends in Jan 2010.
Gareth adds: “I believe that our carefully-managed expansion plans, coupled with a dedicated and experienced team behind us is now showing real bottom-line benefits, and I am very encouraged by the upwards revision of our year end forecasts.”
Carrentals.co.uk’s top rental locations for summer 2009 include Alicante, Faro, Malaga, London, Majorca, Barcelona and Dublin.
“The site is successful because it works for both suppliers and customers,” adds Gareth. “Suppliers know they are getting a fair deal because of its cost-peracquisition (CPA) approach, meaning they only pay for an actual booking, while customers have grown to trust us for the low prices and range of rental companies we offer.
“The travel market is very competitive, meaning companies will only be successful if they offer an easy to use, effective and price sensitive service. We’re proud of the results we’ve achieved, but we know there’s still a lot more potential in the market so the coming year will be focused on building our service further and looking at new sectors where our approach can have an impact.”
About Carrentals.co.uk
www.carrentals.co.uk was launched in February 2003 and has grown to become one of the UK’s leading online car hire companies.
In 2007 the company re-launched its site to create the first major online price comparator in the travel industry. Using the latest technology the Carrentals.co.uk site now searches up to 35 different car hire websites, providing an impartial comparison of the best prices available in over 9,000 locations.
Car Hire Suppliers searched include Alamo, Budget, EasyCar, Ebookers, Hertz, Holiday Autos, Opodo, Sixt and Thrifty, with the Carrentals.co.uk technology quickly comparing prices and allowing customers to refine their search by car type.
The Carrentals.co.uk site also features over 5,000 pages of travel information in a mini-guide format.
In 2008 Carrentals.co.uk was voted Best Car Hire Website in the Travolution Awards. To book or for further information visit www.carrentals.co.uk
Media Contact
Debbie Williams
Context
T: 01625 511966
F: 01625 511967
carrentals@contextpr.co.uk
www.contextpr.co.uk
www.cruise.co.uk Wins ‘Best Cruise Agent’ in Europe for the Second Consecutive Year
Posted , comments closed) www.cruise.co.uk is celebrating success once again at the European Travel Awards with its second consecutive win in the Specialist Cruise Agent Category.
The great and good of the European travel industry gathered on Saturday night at the Marriott Prais D’El Rey Resort, just north of Lisbon, Portugal to see the best of European travel vie for success across a number of different categories. The European Awards form part of the World Travel Awards, the most prestigious, comprehensive and sought after awards for the global travel and tourism industry. The awards celebrate excellence across customer service, innovation and creativity and are generally regarded as the ‘Oscars’ of the global travel industry.
Commenting on the unique achievement, Seamus Conlon, Managing Director, said: “We are absolutely delighted to have won this award for the second consecutive year. We feel this recognises our superior service, higher cruise discounts, and the vast amounts of cruise related information we have on www.cruise.co.uk; over 7000 past passenger photos and over 100,000 cruise related question and answers, the complete Berlitz Guide to Cruising, online and free for all to read.
“This award comes at time when the market for cruises continues to grow and we welcome the recognition by our customers, our peers and those who use our website to research their cruise holiday. Last year alone our site had over four million visits and is now the UK’s largest cruise website for people researching a cruise. This is great example of a British company now leading the new developing online cruise market.”
www.CRUISE.co.uk has ALSO been nominated for the World Cruise Travel Agent 2009 which will be held on 8 November at the Grosvenor House Hotel in London, when World Awards will be announced.”