Air your security gripes on TSA blog

WASHINGTON - Frustrated by long airport-security lines? Certain those screeners aren't paying attention? Wondering why your grandma always gets frisked? The federal government wants to hear — or at least read — your gripes at the "Evolution of Security" blog the Transportation Security Administration introduced Wednesday. And it promises those complaints and suggestions won't vanish into thin air.
http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20080131/ap_on_hi_te/airport_security_tsa_blog

Delta and Gen Art Toast Second Annual Delta’s Fly-In Movies Short Film Contest Winner

Actress Cheryl Hines Hosts Celebratory Party at SKY360 by Delta – Park City for Vancouver Filmmaker, Robert Kirbyson, during 2008 Sundance Film Festival; Kirbyson receives cash prize and round-trip tickets from Delta

Delta Air Lines (NYSE: DAL) toasted the winner of its second annual national short film competition, Delta’s Fly-In Movies, at a celebratory party hosted Wednesday night by Cheryl Hines at SKY360° by Delta - Park City during the 2008 Sundance Film Festival. Vancouver filmmaker Robert Kirbyson was awarded the top prize for his film “Ctrl Z.” In addition to the trip to Sundance, Kirbyson receives a $10,000 cash award and a pair of round-trip tickets valid anywhere Delta flies worldwide.

“Ctrl Z” stars Tony Hale (“Arrested Development”) as Stuart Barnes, an office loner with a lifetime full of regrets who has a change of luck when a computer malfunction offers him the chance to magically undo his life’s mistakes. He takes full advantage, but how far is too far?

Delta, the Official Airline of the 2008 Sundance Film Festival, partnered with Gen Art – one of the leading arts and entertainment organizations dedicated to showcasing the best emerging talent in film, fashion, visual arts and music – to host the contest which offers filmmakers a unique opportunity to showcase their short films both on the airline’s web site at delta.com and on Delta on Demand, the airline’s industry-leading in-flight entertainment system. All five finalists received a trip to Park City, Utah, the site of the 2008 Sundance Film Festival, to attend the celebratory party - courtesy of Delta. The winning film was chosen from five films through audience balloting at delta.com and on Delta on Demand from Dec. 3, 2007 - Jan. 15, 2008.

“Delta is proud to recognize new filmmaking talent and celebrate independent film as a returning sponsor of the Sundance Film Festival," said Tim Mapes, vice president of Marketing for Delta. "We congratulate Robert Kirbyson, as well as the other talented finalists who have all produced truly inventive and entertaining short films.”

"I am honored and very excited to win this award, and am grateful to Delta and GenArt for this opportunity and recognition,” said Kirbyson. “I guess this means I'm now emerging."

This year, nearly 150,000 passengers viewed the five finalist films in-flight on Delta on Demand, with an additional 200,000 viewings taking place at delta.com.
The four other finalist films included:

Slow” by Kurt Kuenne: a depiction of a traffic safety worker who is accidentally caught in the background of a newspaper photo drastically changing his life forever.

“Tales of a Mere Existence: Conversation” by Levni Yilmaz: how a simple trip to the video store can bring up everything that’s wrong with your relationship.

“T’is the Season” by Bob Giovanelli: when a little girl goes to see Santa Claus, she is disappointed to find he is on a break. Fortunately for her, she stumbles on a somewhat unorthodox replacement.

“Morning Fall” by Edward McGinty: a mysterious man wakes up on the side of the road, injured and confused; Who is he? Where does he come from? And where will he end up when he can’t find his way home?

Delta’s first Fly-In Movies winner, Phillip Van, who was awarded the win by delta.com and Delta on Demand viewers in 2007, for his film “High Maintenance”, was honored on June 9, 2007 with a silver medal in the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences’ 34th Annual Student Academy Awards® competition.

Throughout the 2008 Sundance Film Festival, SKY360 by Delta - Park City, an experiential lodge showcasing Delta’s products and service offerings, played host to exclusive premiere parties and events, and opened its doors to the public. The lodge also served as the site for the WireImage Portrait Studio, where filmmakers, casts and industry executives posed for their official Festival portraits.

“SKY360 - Park City provided us with an ideal opportunity to host high profile Sundance Film Festival events, as well as welcome Festival guests to experience firsthand Delta’s new and distinctive products,” added Mapes.

SKY360 by Delta - Park City guests relaxed in Delta’s comfy, all-leather airline seats while sampling Delta on Demand which features a wide selection of movies, HBO, music and video games – all available on demand. Delta’s new full-flat bed seating in personal sleeper suite configuration was also available for guests to enjoy. The suites recline to multiple comfortable positions, including a completely flat surface that offers travelers a six-foot three-inch bed. In addition, SKY360 - Park City guests enjoyed selections from Midnight Sky – a signature cocktail program created exclusively for Delta by nightlife proprietor Rande Gerber – and food selections designed by Delta’s culinary partners, chefs Michelle Bernstein and Todd English.

Gen Art is one of the leading arts and entertainment organizations dedicated to showcasing the best emerging talent in film, fashion, visual arts and music. With offices in New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, Miami and San Francisco, Gen Art has succeeded in launching the careers of many young filmmakers, fashion designers, visual artists and musicians, providing them with high-profile events that welcome industry and new audiences alike. Gen Art was founded in 1993 by Ian and Stefan Gerard. The organization has quickly become a leader in championing the talent of a new generation.

Gen Art's film program includes over 60 events each year including the Gen Art Film Festival which will be celebrating its 13th year in 2008, its national film screening program which includes over 40 film screenings across the country each year, its "Cinema Circle" program as well as various customized film programs like "Shorts by the Beach" and 2nd Annual Gen Art Chicago Film Festival (June 2008) that occur throughout the year.

Delta Air Lines operates service to more worldwide destinations than any airline with Delta and Delta Connection flights to 321 destinations in 58 countries. Delta has added more international capacity than any major U.S. airline during the last two years and is the leader across the Atlantic with flights to 36 trans-Atlantic markets. To Latin America and the Caribbean, Delta offers more than 500 weekly flights to 63 destinations. Delta's marketing alliances also allow customers to earn and redeem SkyMiles on nearly 15,000 flights offered by SkyTeam and other partners. Delta is a founding member of SkyTeam, a global airline alliance that provides customers with extensive worldwide destinations, flights and services. Including its SkyTeam and worldwide codeshare partners, Delta offers flights to 485 worldwide destinations in 106 countries. Customers can check in for flights, print boarding passes and check flight status at delta.com.

US Airways Races into Daytona Beach with the Start of New Daily Service from Its Charlotte, N.C. Hub

TEMPE, Ariz.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Just in time for the 50th running of the Daytona 500, US Airways (NYSE: LCC) begins new, daily service today between Daytona Beach International Airport (DAB) and its hub at Charlotte-Douglas International Airport (CLT). The inaugural flight will depart DAB at 8:30 a.m. and arrive at CLT at 10:15 a.m. US Airways Express carrier Republic Airlines will operate the route with 86-seat Embraer 175 regional jet aircraft.

“US Airways customers can now fly to 13 destinations in the Sunshine State and customers from Daytona Beach are able to conveniently connect through Charlotte to 121 non-stop domestic and international destinations,” said Andrew Nocella, US Airways Senior Vice President, Schedule Planning and Alliances.

Dennis McGee, Director of Aviation for Daytona Beach International Airport, said, “We are pleased to welcome US Airways back to Daytona Beach and look forward to a successful partnership for many years to come.”

The flight schedule is as follows:

Charlotte - Daytona Beach
Daytona Beach - Charlotte

Flight Departure Arrival Flight Departure Arrival
3115 10:00 a.m. 11:45 a.m. 3114 8:30 a.m. 10:15 a.m.
3117 3:00 p.m. 4:45 p.m. 3116 12:30 p.m. 2:15 p.m.
3119 8:00 p.m. 9:45 p.m. 3118 5:30 p.m. 7:15 p.m.

Customers may book their flights at www.usairways.com, by calling 800-428-4322 or through a travel agent.

US Airways is the fifth largest domestic airline employing more than 36,000 aviation professionals worldwide. US Airways, US Airways Shuttle and US Airways Express operate approximately 3,800 flights per day and serve more than 230 communities in the U.S., Canada, Europe, the Caribbean and Latin America. US Airways is a member of the Star Alliance network, which offers our customers 17,000 daily flights to 897 destinations in 160 countries worldwide. This press release and additional information on US Airways can be found at www.usairways.com.(LCCG)

JetBlue Airways Announces a Four-Day Sale for Flights in Four Regions

Select Flights to/from Atlantic, Midwest, Western and Caribbean Destinations On Sale

(PRIME NEWSWIRE) -- JetBlue Airways Corporation (Nasdaq:JBLU) today launches a 4-Day Sale for select flights to and from four regions in the low-fare carrier's growing route network: the Atlantic, Midwest and Western regions of the United States, and the Caribbean. Flights must be booked online at www.jetblue.com by January 25, 2008.

ATLANTIC U.S.: In the Atlantic Region, fares for Pittsburgh, PA flights start at $49(a); Richmond, VA fares start at $59(a); Raleigh/Durham, NC fares start at $69(a); and Charlotte, NC fares start at $79(a). Select flights within the continental U.S. to and from two popular Florida destinations are also on sale. Fares for flights between Fort Lauderdale, FL and New York/JFK, New York/LaGuardia and Washington's Dulles International Airport start at $104(a). Flights between West Palm Beach, FL and New York/JFK and New York/LaGuardia are available with fares as low as $104(a). Sale fares for flights between West Palm Beach and Newburgh, NY start at $99(a).

MIDWESTERN U.S.: Both destinations connected with JetBlue service to Chicago's O'Hare International Airport are on sale. Fares for flights between Chicago, IL and New York/JFK start at $69(a). Fares for flights between Chicago and Long Beach, CA start at $99(a).

WESTERN U.S.: Select flights are on sale to and from several JetBlue destinations in the West. Fares between San Francisco, CA and Salt Lake City, UT start at $59(a). Fares between Oakland, CA and Boston, MA start at $139(a). San Jose, CA flights to and from both New York/JFK and Boston, MA are available with fares as low as $139(a). Fares between San Diego, CA and Washington, D.C./Dulles also start at $139(a). In addition, fares for flights between Las Vegas, NV and Washington, D.C./Dulles start at $99(a) and for flights between Las Vegas and New York/JFK start at $149(a).

CARIBBEAN: Select routes to and from sunny Caribbean destinations are on sale. Fares for flights between Orlando, FL and Puerto Rico (Aguadilla, San Juan and Ponce) start at $79(a). Fares between New York/JFK and Nassau in The Bahamas start at $99(a). Between New York/JFK and Aruba customers may take advantage of fares as low as $139(a).

Sale fares must be purchased by 11:59 p.m. MT on Friday, January 25, 2008 and require up to a 14-day advance purchase. All travel must be completed by March 12, 2008. Travel outside the continental U.S. must take place Monday-Wednesday for southbound travel and Tuesday-Thursday for northbound travel. All other travel must take place on Tuesday, Wednesday, and/or Saturday. Blackout dates and other restrictions apply (a).

Blue Seas, Blue Skies: JetBlue Now Serving St. Maarten

NEW YORK, Jan. 17, 2008 (PRIME NEWSWIRE) -- Beach bums and sun lovers wanted. JetBlue Airways Corporation (Nasdaq:JBLU) today becomes the first low-fare carrier to offer flights between the Northeast and St. Maarten's Princess Juliana International Airport Operating Company N.V. (SXM) with nonstop, daily year-round service from New York's John F. Kennedy Airport (JFK).

To celebrate its new St. Maarten service, JetBlue is currently offering a special $99 (a) sale fare each way between the island and New York/JFK. Travel must be booked by Thursday, January 24 at 11:59 p.m. MT. Regular one-way fares between New York and St. Maarten start as low as $154 (a) each way.

"We want our customers to travel in style and comfort, whether it's more legroom in our all-leather seats, free snacks, complimentary movies or our award-winning personal and sincere service," said Dave Barger, CEO of JetBlue Airways. "They also deserve more affordable flights from the Northeast to the Caribbean, and we're excited to offer daily year-round fares that are almost 30 percent lower than pre-JetBlue fares from New York to the beautiful island destination of St. Maarten. Lower fares means you have more of your budget to spend in beautiful St. Maarten or one of our 10 other Caribbean destinations."

"We are very pleased to welcome JetBlue into our airport family," said drs. Eugene Holiday, President of Princess Juliana International Airport. He continues, "The start of the service will bring increased choices and connections for the traveling public between St. Maarten/St. Martin, the region we serve and the U.S."

"JetBlue's nonstop, daily year-round service from New York's John F. Kennedy Airport, will allow greater opportunities for development of our tourism product," comments Commissioner of Tourism Roy Marlin. "This new flight will mean easier and more accessible travel to and from St. Maarten and the Caribbean, as well as provide more options for visitors wishing to vacation on our beautiful island. We are encouraged by this new opportunity and look forward to welcoming visitors from the United States and beyond through this new connection."

St. Maarten is JetBlue's 11th Caribbean/Atlantic destination, joining: Aruba; Bermuda; Cancun; Nassau; Aguadilla, Ponce and San Juan, Puerto Rico; and Puerto Plata, Santiago and Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic. Service between 11 JetBlue destinations and St. Maarten is also available with easy and convenient connections at JetBlue's hometown airport, JFK, including: Boston; Las Vegas; and Washington, D.C./Dulles.

JetBlue now offers full vacation packages for St. Maarten and 25 other JetBlue destinations. JetBlue Getaways customers book discounted vacation packages including airfare, hotel, airport transfers and/or various activities at one time, saving valuable time and money. Customers can book a JetBlue Getaways vacation package to St. Maarten at http://www.primenewswire.com/newsroom/ctr?d=134486&u=http://www.jetblue.com or through the JetBlue Getaways desk by calling 1-800-JETBLUE (538-2583), option 3.

Customers flying JetBlue to/from St. Maarten will travel in style aboard the airline's modern Airbus A320 fleet, which features all-leather seating and the most legroom in coach (based on average fleet-wide seat pitch for U.S. airlines), as well as complimentary first-run movies and bonus features from FOX InFlight on JetBlue's signature seatback televisions. Through its largest focus city at New York's JFK Airport, JetBlue also offers Caribbean travelers convenient connecting service to destinations across the airline's coast-to-coast route network.

JetBlue's new service between New York and St. Maarten's Princess Juliana International Airport, with fares starting as low as $154 (a) each way.

(a) All fares are subject to change without notice. Fares are only available for flights booked at jetblue.com. Travel costs $10 more per person if purchased by telephone or at an airport or city ticket office. Fares require up to a 7-day advance purchase. Travel must be booked by January 24, 2008, 11:59 PM MT. Travel must be completed by April 2, 2008. Travel must take place Monday-Wednesday for southbound travel and Tuesday-Thursday for northbound travel. Fares may not be available on all days or on all flights. Fares are most often found on midweek travel dates. All fares must be purchased at time of reservation, and are one-way, nonrefundable, and nontransferable. Cancellations and changes can be made prior to scheduled departure for $50 at 1-800-JETBLUE (1-801-365-2583 if located in St. Maarten) or $40 at jetblue.com, with applicable fare adjustment. Cancellations are for a JetBlue travel credit only, which is valid for one year. If a reservation is not changed or canceled prior to scheduled departure, all money associated with the reservation is forfeited. Fares do not include Passenger Facility Charges of up to $9 each way, September 11th Security Fees of up to $5 each way and a Federal Segment Tax of $3.50 per domestic segment. A segment is a takeoff and landing. International fares also do not include government fees and taxes of up to $71.75 each way. All taxes and fees must be paid at the time of purchase. JetBlue reserves the right to deny boarding to passengers without proper documentation. Other restrictions apply.

DIRECTV(r) service is not available on flights outside the continental United States; however, where applicable FOX InFlight(tm) is offered complimentary on these routes. FOX InFlight(tm) is a trademark of Twentieth Century Fox Film Corporation. JetBlue's in-flight entertainment service is provided by LiveTV, a wholly owned subsidiary of JetBlue.

This press release contains statements of a forward-looking nature which represent our management's beliefs and assumptions concerning future events. Forward-looking statements involve risks, uncertainties and assumptions, and are based on information currently available to us. Actual results may differ materially from those expressed in the forward-looking statements due to many factors, including, without limitation, our extremely competitive industry; increases in fuel prices, maintenance costs and interest rates; our ability to implement our growth strategy, including the ability to operate reliably the EMBRAER 190 aircraft; our significant fixed obligations; our ability to attract and retain qualified personnel and maintain our culture as we grow; our reliance on high daily aircraft utilization; our dependence on the New York metropolitan market and the effect of increased congestion in this market; our reliance on automated systems and technology; our being subject to potential unionization; our reliance on a limited number of suppliers; changes in or additional government regulation; changes in our industry due to other airlines' financial condition; and external geopolitical events and conditions. Further information concerning these and other factors is contained in the Company's Securities and Exchange Commission filings, including but not limited to, the Company's 2006 Annual Report on Form 10-K and Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q. We undertake no obligation to update any forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances that may arise after the date of this release.

Chertoff: Tougher ID rules for borders

WASHINGTON - New border-crossing rules that take effect in two weeks will mean longer lines and stiffer demands for ID, including for returning Americans, Homeland Security Secretary Michael Chertoff said Thursday.

A driver's license won't be good enough to get you past a checkpoint at the Canadian border, Chertoff said. That will be a surprise to many people who routinely cross the border, but Chertoff bristled at criticism that such extra security would be inconvenient.

http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20080117/ap_on_go_ca_st_pe/border_security

Delta Resumes Atlanta-Edinburgh Route for Summer 2008

Delta Air Lines (NYSE: DAL) customers looking to reach Scotland for a summer fortnight will again be able to fly the world’s largest trans-Atlantic airline between its largest international gateway in Atlanta and the Scottish capital of Edinburgh. Nonstop Delta flights between Atlanta and Edinburgh will operate seasonally between June 2 and Oct. 1, 2008 and will complement new year-round service between Edinburgh and New York-JFK, beginning May 1.

With the return of the Atlanta-Edinburgh route, Delta will offer customers nonstop access to 31 trans-Atlantic destinations via its Atlanta hub, including new flights to Lagos, Nigeria (inaugurated Dec. 3, 2007); London-Heathrow (effective March 29, 2008) and Stockholm, Sweden (effective June 3, 2008).

“Delta looks forward to another record year of international traffic via our Atlanta hub thanks to the addition of more new destinations around the globe for our customers,” said Bob Cortelyou, Delta’s senior vice president – Network Planning. “From Europe to Africa to Asia to South America, Delta covers the globe in any direction from Atlanta, with flights slated to more than 80 international destinations next summer.”

Flights between Atlanta and Edinburgh will operate three-times weekly from June 2-30 and daily from July 1-Sep. 30. Flights are scheduled as follows:

Flight
Departs
Arrives
Effective
196
Atlanta at 6:25 p.m.
Edinburgh at 7:35 a.m.*
June 1-Sep. 30, 2008
197
Edinburgh at 11:50 a.m.
Atlanta at 3:40 p.m.
June 2-Oct. 1, 2008* arrives next day

Book a flight today.

Customers flying Delta between Atlanta and Edinburgh flights will travel on a Boeing 757-200 aircraft featuring 16 seats in Delta’s award-winning BusinessElite cabin and 158 seats in Economy. All customers will enjoy comfortable all-leather seating and personal, in-seat entertainment, in both classes.

Delta Air Lines operates service to more worldwide destinations than any airline with Delta and Delta Connection flights to 321 destinations in 58 countries. Delta has added more international capacity than any major U.S. airline during the last two years and is the leader across the Atlantic with flights to 36 trans-Atlantic markets. To Latin America and the Caribbean, Delta offers more than 500 weekly flights to 63 destinations. Delta's marketing alliances also allow customers to earn and redeem SkyMiles on nearly 15,000 flights offered by SkyTeam and other partners. Delta is a founding member of SkyTeam, a global airline alliance that provides customers with extensive worldwide destinations, flights and services. Including its SkyTeam and worldwide codeshare partners, Delta offers flights to 485 worldwide destinations in 106 countries. Customers can check in for flights, print boarding passes and check flight status at delta.com.

SkyMiles Members Can Earn Miles In Their Sleep At Châteaux & Hôtels Collection

Delta partnership provides new international mileage-earning opportunities and special bonus offer

Delta Air Lines (NYSE:DAL) and Châteaux & Hôtels Collection, world renowned for charming, authentic and exclusive hotels, manors and chateaux, have announced a new partnership. The agreement will allow SkyMiles members to earn 500 miles for each visit booked through www.chateauxhotels.com/delta.

Currently located throughout France, Belgium, Italy and Spain, Châteaux & Hôtels Collection plans to add approximately 20 Italian and Spanish establishments to the privately owned label. The partnership also will complement Delta’s recent service expansion across the Atlantic ensuring that SkyMiles members will have more mileage earning opportunities throughout Europe.

“We’re proud to be the first and only U.S. airline to partner with Châteaux & Hôtels Collection,” said Jeff Robertson, managing director of the SkyMiles program. “This partnership complements our extensive service to 35 trans-Atlantic markets and provides new ways for European-bound SkyMiles members to earn miles toward Award travel.”

To celebrate the launch of this partnership, Delta and Châteaux & Hôtels Collection are offering SkyMiles members 1,000 miles for bookings between Jan. 9, 2008 and April 9, 2008. Members can visit www.chateauxhotels.com/delta to learn more about Châteaux & Hôtels Collection and to take advantage of this promotion.

“Châteaux & Hôtels Collection is thrilled to partner with Delta to offer SkyMiles members miles for staying at our exquisite establishments,” said Didier Jourdanneau, Sales Director at Châteaux & Hôtels Collection. “We strive to provide first class service to our guests in each of our distinct locations around the world while at the same time maintaining a comfortable atmosphere to make our guests feel at home.”

For more than 30 years, Châteaux & Hôtels Collection has been reuniting and preserving more than 500 privately-owned properties. Acquired by the Alain Ducasse Group seven years ago, Châteaux & Hôtels Collection continues to expand and gain attention for attractive and historically preserved hotels featuring authentic restaurants and tranquil spas.

The award-winning Delta SkyMiles program offers members multiple mileage-earning opportunities when flying Delta, Delta Shuttle®, the Delta Connection® carriers, Delta AirElite® and other SkyTeam® airlines. Additional mileage-building opportunities are offered through more than 100 partners such as the Delta SkyMiles Credit Card from American Express, SkyMilesShopping.com, participating hotels, car rental companies, telecommunication services, restaurants, retailers and more. Now in its 27th year, SkyMiles is one of the longest-running and most successful loyalty programs in the travel industry and was named “Best Frequent Flyer Program” for 2007 by Business Traveler magazine.

Delta Air Lines operates service to more worldwide destinations than any airline with Delta and Delta Connection flights to 321 destinations in 58 countries. Delta has added more international capacity than any major U.S. airline during the last two years and is the leader across the Atlantic with flights to 36 trans-Atlantic markets. To Latin America and the Caribbean, Delta offers more than 500 weekly flights to 63 destinations. Delta's marketing alliances also allow customers to earn and redeem SkyMiles on nearly 15,000 flights offered by SkyTeam and other partners. Delta is a founding member of SkyTeam, a global airline alliance that provides customers with extensive worldwide destinations, flights and services. Including its SkyTeam and worldwide codeshare partners, Delta offers flights to 485 worldwide destinations in 106 countries. Customers can check in for flights, print boarding passes and check flight status at delta.com.

CREATE WARM WINTER MEMORIES AT CALLAWAY GARDENS®

While many New Year’s resolutions are to spend more time with loved ones, Callaway Gardens® offers “Warm Winter Memories” packages this season. Once again voted by Southern Living readers as their favorite public garden, visitors enjoy Mother Nature at its finest at Callaway Gardens with specially priced rates beginning at $89* from now through March 14, 2008. With rates including Gardens admission, guests take advantage of one-of-a-kind experiences from the Day Butterfly Center and the Birds of Prey Show to the country’s finest gardens such as the Sibley Horticultural Center and a variety of recreation such as golfing, fishing, biking, hiking and tennis.

“Warm Winter Nights” at Callaway Gardens
Through March 13, 2008
Starting at $89/room/night

* Accommodations*
* $15 voucher toward greens fees
* 20 percent off recreation (see inclusions)
* 15 percent off purchases in Callaway Gardens’ gift shops (excludes pro shops)
* Gardens admission including Day Butterfly Center, Sibley Horticultural Center, Birds of Prey Show
* Use of the Mountain Creek Inn Fitness Center

“Deep Forest Spa Package”
Through March 14, 2008
Starting at $354/room/night

* Accommodations at the luxury Lodge and Spa
* $200 voucher for use at Spa Prunifolia
* Breakfast at the Piedmont Dining Room
* Gardens admission including Day Butterfly Center, Sibley Horticultural Center, Birds of Prey Show
* Use of the Lodge and Spa Fitness Center including the sauna, steam room, all-season outdoor pool and whirlpool spas

Additionally, Callaway Gardens has a bevy of winter offerings and hands-on activities for friends and families to getaway together to experience the “simpler things in life,” including:

Jan. 18-20:
Southern Gardening Symposium, a three-day event dedicated to garden and landscape design featuring well respected and entertaining experts.

Jan. 25-27:
Get Creative, Get Inspired Hobby Weekend, try a new hobby such as
scrapbooking, painting with watercolor, making jewelry with precious metal clay, digital photography and Chinese brush painting.

Feb. 9-10:
Valentine Dinner and Dance, escape to a romantic dinner with dancing with that special person in your life.

March 8:
Mystery Dinner Weekend, everyone needs a little mystery with this special dinner theater featuring a Mardi Gras-theme whodunit.

To experience Mother Nature at its finest, call 1-800-CALLAWAY or visit www.callawaygardens.com.

Callaway Gardens®, a premier travel and meeting destination in the South, is owned by the non-profit Ida Cason Callaway Foundation™ (ICCF). Within the 13,000 acres of Callaway Gardens is a resort, preserve, a cumulative 100,000 square feet of meeting space, 931 guest rooms, restaurants, shops, golf, tennis, fishing, Gun Club, gardens, butterfly conservatory, horticultural center, chapel, inland beach, nature trails and additional attractions. For more than 50 years Callaway Gardens has provided “a place of relaxation, inspiration and a better understanding of the living world” for millions of visitors. Callaway Gardens is committed to its mission of environmental education and land stewardship for the benefit of future generations.

Delta Rolls Out the Red Carpet for Filmmakers, VIPs, Festival Attendees At the 2008 Sundance Film Festival With the Opening of SKY360* by Delta

Warm, rustic two-level lodge to host WireImage Portrait Studio and premiere parties Delta to announce winner of airline's second annual Delta's Fly-In Movies contest at unique venue

ATLANTA, Jan. 15, 2008 (PRIME NEWSWIRE) -- Delta Air Lines (NYSE:DAL) is once again proudly supporting independent film as a returning sponsor and Official Airline of the Sundance Film Festival. The airline will roll out the red carpet for filmmakers, VIPs and Festival attendees with the opening of SKY360* by Delta - Park City, a two-story, stylish sky lodge experience available Jan. 17 - 26. Throughout the 2008 Festival, SKY360* - Park City will host private premiere parties and events. It will also serve as the exclusive location for the WireImage Portrait Studio where filmmakers, cast members and industry executives will have their official Festival portraits taken.

"Delta is proud to continue supporting emerging filmmakers and independent film as the Official Airline of the Sundance Film Festival and through our second annual Delta's Fly-In Movies contest," said Tim Mapes, Delta's vice president of Marketing. "SKY360* by Delta offers our Park City guests a quiet retreat where they can experience firsthand the unique elements of Delta, including our new full-flat bed seating and state-of-the art in-flight entertainment."

This comfortable retreat has a hip lounge feel wrapped in the ambiance and texture of a warm, rustic lodge. Located at 449 Main Street, SKY360* - Park City serves as a quiet refuge from the busy streets of Sundance, offering guests plush leather seating, wooden banquets, a fireplace, plasma television screens, music and more. Guests to the lodge can even sit back and relax in one of Delta's comfy, all-leather airline seats and sample Delta on Demand, the airline's state-of-the-art digital entertainment system which features a wide selection of movies, HBO, music and video games -- all available on demand. Delta's new full-flat bed seating in personal sleeper suite configuration will also be available for guests to enjoy. The suites recline to multiple comfortable positions, including a completely flat surface that offers travelers a six-foot three-inch bed. Other amenities available to guests of SKY360* - Park City include:

-- a well-stocked bar, featuring selections from Midnight Sky -- a signature cocktail program created exclusively for Delta by nightlife proprietor Rande Gerber;
-- food selections designed by Delta's culinary partners, chefs Michelle Bernstein and Todd English;
-- Godiva Hot Cocoa in four flavors - Milk Chocolate, Dark Chocolate, Mocha and Caramel;
-- Wi-Fi; and
-- world class service from Delta's renowned flight attendants.

To further demonstrate Delta's commitment to effect positive environmental change, SKY360*

- Park City will offer a "Go Carbon Zero" kiosk that allows guests to calculate the carbon dioxide emissions associated with their air or ground travel to Sundance and then offset those emissions by making a donation to Delta's nonprofit partner, The Conservation Fund, a leading environmental nonprofit organization dedicated to protecting land and water resources -- right from the lodge. In June 2007, Delta became the first U.S. airline to help its customers give back to the environment by buying trees to help offset carbon emissions associated with air travel at the airline's website, delta.com.

On Jan. 17 and 26, SKY360* - Park City will be open to the public. On the remaining dates, the space will host filmmakers and cast members who are visiting the WireImage Portrait Studio for their official Festival portraits during the daytime. In the evenings, SKY360* - Park City will host private, invitation-only events, including premiere parties and dinners, programmed through the airline's partnership with Gen Art, one of the leading arts and entertainment organizations dedicated to showcasing the best emerging talent in film, fashion, visual arts and music. Talent expected includes Sienna Miller, Josh Hartnett, Naomi Watts, Billy Crudup, Mena Suvari, Michael Keaton, Jason Reitman, Nick Nolte, Paul Giamatti and Morgan Spurlock.
In addition, Delta continues its support of emerging filmmakers and independent film with Delta's Fly-In Movies, the airline's second annual national film competition where the traveling and online public view five original short films on delta.com and on Delta on Demand and vote for their favorite to determine the winner. Through the second annual contest, managed by Gen Art, the five finalist filmmakers will receive a trip to the Sundance Film Festival to attend a celebration hosted by Delta at SKY360* - Park City on Jan. 23 where the winning film and filmmaker will be announced. Based on Delta viewers' choice, one filmmaker will receive a $10,000 cash award and a pair of round-trip tickets valid anywhere Delta flies worldwide.
The five inventive short films are available at delta.com/flyinmovies, with videos powered by Veoh Networks, and on Delta on Demand for most customers traveling on transcontinental flights through the end of January. These films include:

-- "Slow" by Kurt Kuenne: a depiction of a traffic safety worker who is accidentally caught in the background of a newspaper photo drastically changing his life forever.

-- "Tales of a Mere Existence: Conversation" by Levni Yilmaz: how a simple trip to the video store can bring up everything that's wrong with your relationship.

-- "Ctrl Z" by Robert Kirbyson: starring Tony Hale ("Arrested Development") as Stuart Barnes, an office loner with a lifetime full of regrets, but his luck is about to change. When a computer malfunction offers him the chance to magically undo his life's mistakes he takes full advantage, but how far is too far?

-- "T'is the Season" by Bob Giovanelli: when a little girl goes to see Santa Claus, she is disappointed to find he is on a break. Fortunately for her, she stumbles on a somewhat unorthodox replacement.

-- "Morning Fall" by Edward McGinty: a mysterious man wakes up on the side of the road, injured and confused; Who is he? Where does he come from? And where will he end up when he can't find his way home?

With Delta on Demand, the airline's advanced in-flight entertainment system, customers traveling on transcontinental flights between cities such as Salt Lake and New York will enjoy 18 channels of live television, up to 25 first-run and popular classic movies, HBO on demand, more than 3,000 mp3s, and a suite of 12 video games.

British Airways Launches 'London for Free'

Roundtrip Air and Two Nights' Free Hotel From $377

NEW YORK, Jan. 15, 2008 (PRIME NEWSWIRE) -- British Airways today launched its ever popular 'London for Free,' offering two nights' free hotel in London.

'London for Free' offers travellers two nights' free hotel accommodation at select three- and four-star hotels in central London when purchasing roundtrip airfares between the U.S. and the U.K.

Roundtrip airfares begin at $377 between New York (JFK or Newark) and London. Comparable airfares are available from all 19 British Airways U.S. cities. Travelers also have the option to upgrade to World Traveller Plus, the airline's premium economy cabin, for an additional fee.
Prices are available for sale through Thursday, midnight (EST), January 24, 2008. Travel is valid from January 22, 2008, through March 23, 2008.

London hotels participating in 'London For Free' include the Royal National, Central Park, Comfort Inn Kensington, Jurys Inn Chelsea, Premier Travel Inn Kensington and Premier Travel Inn Wembley and Park Inn Hyde Park, Marriott Maida Vale and Holiday Inn Regents Park. The two free hotel nights are based on double occupancy; single occupants are offered one free hotel night.

World Traveller roundtrip fares must be booked and purchased seven days in advance and are non-refundable. World Traveller Plus roundtrip fares must be booked and purchased 21 days in advance. Fares may be higher for other travel dates and from other U.S. departure gateways. Weekend (Thursday-Sunday) surcharge applies at $30 each way. Fares are subject to government approval and do not include government fees and taxes from approximately $165 and a $2.50 September 11 Security Fee. Minimum stay of Saturday night is required and maximum stay is 11 months. Other significant restrictions apply. Hotel accommodation must be booked and purchased with British Airways roundtrip published airfare originating in the U.S. during the promotional period.

Further information on this promotion and other British Airways offers are available by visiting the airline's website, www.ba.com/january

ENCHANTING MARBELLA

One of the jewels of Spain is the lovely town of Marbella, an exclusive summer resort for Southern Europe. It is situated on the 'Costa del Sol', Spain's region of Andalusia, and boasts 17 miles of beachfront, and a total of 24 different beaches. While the beauty of Marbella is its location on the sea, there is a rich history as you stroll through the narrow streets of Casco Antigua (Old Town), to the historic church and bell tower, and view La Trinidad and San Francisco convents, and the crumbling walls of a Moorish castillo. These narrow streets are lined with quaint shops and sidewalk cafés.

Down by the sea, stands the magnificent Puerto Banús harbor, with hundreds of expensive yachts, and luxury cars parked outside Nueva Andalucía's high-class boutiques and art galleries. It is a joy to discover the ruins of Muslim walls, the 16th century Plaza de la Iglesia and Casa Consistorial (Town Hall) that is contrasted by modern Marbella's music bars, discothèques, and fine restaurants. For art lovers the Museo del Grabado Español Contemporáneo exhibits works by renowned Spanish artists, Picasso, Dalí and Miró. As Costa del Sol's most popular resort, it is famous for its beaches, luxurious resorts, and extravagant boutiques, lively beach bars and restaurants, with more than 40 golf courses.

Marbella is home to a population of 300.000 people during the year and a million during the summer. Sheltered by the mountains of the Sierra Blanca, the average temperature all year long is 66 degrees and the sun shines around 315 days per year with less than 50 rainy days. Marbella feels like a small town with friendly people. There are also great day trips to take such as seeing the British colony, the Rock of Gibraltar, with its wild monkeys. Why not get two stamps in your passport? Marbella will enchant you with its charm and vitality.

Angie McCarl
http://www.trips2fun.com/

Breathtaking Kauai!

When I first laid eyes on Kauai I thought I had found Eden. This most perfect island is called the Garden Isle of Hawaii. As the beauty of Kauai reveals itself, you find tall mountains rising from the lush greenery and sparkling blue waters splashing along black sand beaches. Truly you feel the hand of God as the panoramic views startle and amaze you. If your ideal vacation is in the tropics, then Kauai should be first on your list. Over 80% of Kauai's diverse terrain is inaccessible making the helicopter the best way to see its spectacular waterfalls, canyons, mountains, valleys, rain forests and secluded beaches. Waimea Canyon has been named the Pacific Grand Canyon. As the waterfall pours over the edge of the incredible high cliff, I remember skipping across the flowing water thinking, “Gosh, I hope I don’t slip!” Elvis filmed Blue Hawaii here and the fantastic opening to Jurassic Park credits Kauai’s lush canyons and wild seas. Don’t miss this tropical treasure, it will touch your soul!

History Is Alive at Plymouth Colony

In 1620 the Mayflower brought hope-filled Pilgrims to our rocky shores. In seven years they had built the busy village of Plymouth which grew into the current city of today. Fortunately for us Plymouth's history isn't lost forever, there is a wonderful re-creation of this small farming town built by English. It is easy to find yourself immersed in the year 1627, in the village of modest timber-framed houses, fragrant raised-bed gardens, well-tended livestock and fascinating townspeople of Plymouth Colony.

Although Jamestown (1607) was the first settlement, Plymouth remains the first permanent English settlement in New England. The people you will meet are costumed role players who have taken on the names, viewpoints and life histories of the people who actually lived in the colony in 1627. Each one has a unique story to tell. Learn about the colony's difficult beginnings or discover the gossip of the day. Ask about religious beliefs, medical practices or relations with the local Wampanoag Indians.

Your visit to the year 1627 is self-guided, so you are free to wander around the village at your own pace. Take this unique opportunity to explore the 17th-century perspective of the English who traveled across the Atlantic. It is a delightful venture into the past without the rough seas and the perilous journey.

Angie McCarl
TRIPS2FUN.COM

Salem in Summer

One of New England’s most famous ancient towns is Salem, Massachusetts. It is a great walking city and absolutely charming to visit. Begun in 1627 as Naumkeag for the river it sits on, the village was renamed Salem in 1629. It thrived as a quiet farming and fishing community until the January of 1692 when it learned the brutal results of mass hysteria. When old doc Griggs couldn’t find a reason for two women’s illness, he declared “I can’t cure it so it must be the devil” and told the town that the women had been bewitched. His snap diagnosis caused the hanging death of nineteen men and women as well as the subsequent death of at least 5 others from prison and crushings. What a guy… Of course he wasn’t alone. There were judges and trials and false testimonies that make for amazing reading at the Peabody Essex Museum. To commemorate the poor accused villagers the city of Salem has gone all out with a Salem Witch Museum. Just around the corner from this depressing museum is the “House of the Seven Gables” that was made famous by Nathaniel Hawthorne. The book was dull but the house is interesting and a great tour. There are so many fascinating streets and shops that spending a day in Salem will keep you in high spirits on a bright blue summer day.

Angie McCarl
Trips2fun.com

For a great family vacation, Sarasota, Florida is your perfect getaway. It’s white sandy beaches open to the vastness of the Gulf and amazing, breathtaking sunsets. The beauty of Sarasota will get your attention on your first visit. If you see Sarasota first from the window of an airplane, the colors of the Gulf of Mexico and Sarasota Bay, contrasting with the brilliant white sand of Longboat, Lido, and Siesta beaches, will make you anxious to see more. One of my favorite places is St. Armand's Key which has a lovely circle of shops and restaurants called St. Armand's Circle. The best in the area is called the COLUMBIA which prides itself on excellent Cuban dishes and delightful atmosphere. This is a laid back city that offers interesting homes such as that of John Ringling (of Ringling Brothers Circus fame) with unique Spanish architecture and lush jungle-like vegetation. European travel gave John Ringling a passion for art collecting. He has important works of Rubens and Titian among his collection which rivals the Metropolitan Museum of Art. In the area is the unique lavender seashell-design that makes the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall just incredible. With approximately 1/4 the population of Tampa, Sarasota has 9 colleges along with its dedication to water related sports. Have fun in a beautiful part of our United States by spending your vacation in spectacular Sarasota.

Tis Fun at the Globe Theatre in London

If you are longing for history to come alive, don't miss the Globe theatre in London this summer! When it comes to watching theatre, nowhere quite matches the history and intimacy of Shakespeare's Globe. To illustrate the first theme of renaissance, there are three classic Shakespeare plays - Othello, The Merchant of Venice and Love's Labour Lost. They explore the promise and the problems of the Renaissance period. Open all year round, Shakespeare’s Globe Exhibition is the world’s largest exhibition devoted to Shakespeare and the London in which he lived and worked.

In addition, housed in the vast UnderGlobe beneath the theatre, is a fascinating exhibition that explores the remarkable story of American Sam Wanamaker struggle to rebuild the Globe and brings Shakespeare’s world to life using a range of interactive displays and live demonstrations.
Find out how special effects were produced in Shakespeare’s time; join the cast and add your voice to a scene played by Globe actors; watch a sword-fighting display; see a working printing press in action or discover how actors are dressed in Elizabethan clothing. It is a fun and fascinating tour.

Virgin Islands-Cool Vacation

Virgin Islands

The magnificent Virgin Islands has a long standing, enviable international reputation as the ultimate place for pristine beaches, warm weather, and crystal-clear waters. You’ll also find it is one of the most culturally diverse, ethnically rich, and artistically vibrant society in the tropics. You’ll also find the residents are island-spiced, friendly and quick to smile. Contemporary Virgin Islanders are literally from everywhere.

Nowhere else in the Caribbean offers such a good vacation value as the US Virgin Islands. With secluded beaches, National Parks and Duty-free shopping it is perfect and quick trip or a long stay. For World-class diving and superb sailing this is the trip for you. What is really nice is that it is all wrapped up in the safety, security, and efficiency of the American flag. The United States Virgin Islands include St. Thomas, St. Croix, and St. John has the pristine beaches to enjoy sunbathing or touring the island. It is the perfect vacation retreat.

Rent a Villa in Paradise

Delfina Villa in St. John Island

As you enter the magnificent villa of Delfina, you’ll know you have arrived in paradise! Stepping through the pillars and into the sweeping courtyard of this superb estate, you will find a mansion fit for royalty! Overlooking the radiance of Peter Bay on the leeward side of St. John Island, Delfina is picture perfect in every way. With 5600 square feet of interior living space coupled with the additional balconies, verandas, covered drive and patios, you’ll have a total of 13,000 square feet under roof.
Enjoy a cocktail on the stone patio by the pool as you gaze upon the radiant green mountains and blue Caribbean Sea. This new and exclusive luxury residence is located in the gated community of Peter Bay. Every detail is faultless from the gourmet kitchen to the five large ensuite bedrooms and an entire level devoted to family entertainment. The media room has comfortable seating and a 50 inch flat screen TV with DVD and extensive movie and CD collection. In the entertainment alcove you’ll enjoy pinball machine, Xbox, and a beautiful pool table. For those interested in a little cardio, the villa offers an excellent treadmill.
But you are here for the view! Why not dine under the stars on fish cooked on your stainless gas grill with rotisserie? Every possible attention to opulence is yours at the Defina villa. All will love the abundant amenities offered. For snorkeling or sun bathing on the beach, you are just a few minutes by car to the private beaches of Peter Bay or those wanting a short hike, you can take the back roads down to shore in about ten minutes.
While the villa sleeps 12, you won’t have to worry about getting away for some private time with the luxurious accommodations at Delfina. Listening to the calming sounds of the sea, you’ll watch the vibrant colors of the Virgin Islands sunset from your private balcony set with table and chairs for two. Rich and refreshing, the bedroom suites are perfect for savoring the restful nights including bathrobes and alfresco showers with mini-fridge and coffeemaker to begin another day in Paradise. There is also a quiet sitting area with TV and DVD player, DSL line for your laptop along with fax/printer/copier for those who want to be connected.
Stylish furnishings, beautiful landscaping, air-conditioning, and top of the line details will make your stay at the Delfina a cherished memory. Perfect for families, or a getaway with friends, the villa offers you the supreme vacation home. With Breathtaking views and stylish elegance, Delfina will have you returning again and again to your own private paradise in the Caribbean.
Angie McCarl
770-632-3595

Cotton House By The Sea in St Croix

 

Imagine sitting with friends and family on your dazzling veranda watching the sailboats dance in the blue waters below.  Your stay at Cotton House by the Sea will take you to a new level of elegance, in this sleek, immaculate, and tastefully furnished villa.   Located steps away from the ocean on St. Croix's northeastern coast, this very exclusive, private West Indian colonial home offers a luxurious Great Room along with three bedroom suites, and outdoor covered gallery overlooking your colossal sunny pool and fabulous cabana. Tall palms and colorful bougainvillea screen both sides of the pool area completely, offering exclusive privacy from neighboring homes.  Cotton House By The Sea's great room opens to a beautiful outside gallery overlooking the pool and Caribbean Sea providing an enticing area for cocktails and relaxing.  You'll love this well-designed, fully equipped gourmet kitchen, with crystal, china, flatware, and Caphalon cookware, set one-step up on a dramatic dais.  At sunrise, walk hand and hand down your lush green terraced lawn to the shore and bask in the fabulous snorkeling and swimming of the azure waters.  Enjoy evenings in the manor house surrounded by lush flora and fauna that give a special hideaway feel.  This air-conditioned beauty offers so much more than other villas with its elegant furnishings of mahogany, original artwork, and cathedral ceilings.

You'll know you're in the islands as you enter your master suite with its carved four-poster king bed draped luxuriously with netting and white curtains.  With its rich tiled shower for two, you'll love your spacious bath and especially its private garden patio where tradewind breezes cool the afternoon sun.  The second king suite glories in a draped mahogany four-poster bed with a unique alfresco shower, tiled in immaculate white, with a private window looking out to the sea. Not to be outdone, Cotton House's third bedroom suite offers two twin beds with French doors opening out to its own tropical garden sun deck.

Come to Cotton House By The Sea to take pleasure in her stylish colonial atmosphere with tasteful blendings of beautiful antiques and tranquil privacy inside and out.  In seaside splendor, Cotton House By The Sea is your perfect retreat for comfort and serenity amidst the unforgettable alluring views of the magnificent Caribbean.

 

 

 

 

Angie McCarl

http://www.trips2fun.com