Entries in the 'Travel' Category

1980s-Style Water Cooler Earns Video Contest Winner One Million Best Western Rewards(SM) Points

PHOENIX, June 26 /PRNewswire/ — What do the 1980s and a water cooler named Corey have in common? For noted YouTube personality and Los Angeles resident Joel Moss Levinson, both helped him win the grand prize in Best Western International’s Points for Free Video Contest.
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The contest commemorated the 20th anniversary of the hotel chain’s Best Western Rewards(SM) program, Gold Crown Club International, and winners were announced today.
Tapping into Gen X office workers’ high school nostalgia, the contest asked entrants to decorate their break room water cooler in the spirit of the 1980s and film a video explaining why it should win them a vacation. Levinson dressed his water cooler in a stonewashed denim jacket and blond wig, and composed an original song about the creation he named Corey.
For his efforts, Levinson won 1 million Best Western Rewards(SM) points. His prize can be redeemed for the equivalent of up to 100 hotel room nights at Best Western’s 4,000 properties worldwide, Best Western’s Travel Card, airline miles, retail gift cards, merchandise … the list goes on.
Levinson said he will redeem his points for Best Western hotel rooms, and his next trip is to Estonia.
“It’s exciting to know that I can just go to Best Western’s Web site, look up the city I’m headed to, and know I’m going to get a place that’s great — and use points to pay for it! These hotel points will help me see the world, make more videos and enter more contests,” said Levinson.
Jennifer Delano, a teacher from Coon Rapids, Minn., received the runner-up prize. Her video explained that her school’s break room had been turned into a classroom, so she decorated the room’s overhead projector instead. Her punk rock creation danced around the classroom and wished for a vacation.
The videos were judged on creativity, humor and consumer vote, and can be viewed at .
“This contest was a fun way to highlight our generous rewards program,” said Dorothy Dowling, senior vice president of marketing and sales for Best Western International. “Winners will see first-hand the many ways to spend their points — on free room nights, Best Western’s Travel Card, frequent flier miles, merchandise, gift cards and much more.”
Since its inception in 1988, Gold Crown Club International has been one of the industry’s most generous reward programs, and one of few programs that is truly international, offering members the chance to earn and spend points at more than 4,000 hotels worldwide. It was the first loyalty program with customized offerings for NASCAR(R), AAA / CAA members and Harley-Davidson(R) riders and enthusiasts. Today, the program has more than 8.5 million members.
To join the free program, visit . Best Western Rewards(SM) members can earn points toward free hotel stays, dining and entertainment gift certificates, airline miles and more.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL
Best Western International is THE WORLD’S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN(R), providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* independently owned and operated member hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. An industry pioneer since 1946, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Best Western’s diverse property portfolio, its greatest strength, stems from a business model designed to give owners maximum flexibility to address market-specific needs. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western recently embarked on a five-year mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. Since 2004, Best Western has served as the Official Hotel of NASCAR(R). For more information or to make a reservation, please visit .
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.

CONTACTS:
Marie Yarroll David Cumpston
Best Western International Allison & Partners
(602) 957-5750 (415) 277-4917

Best Western International

Bay Area Residents Avoid Long Road Trips and Enjoy Local Fun This Summer at California’s Great America

SANTA CLARA, Calif., May 28 /PRNewswire/ — California’s Great America is now open daily for summer and with gas prices continuing to be on the rise, the 100-acre combination theme and water park is the perfect summer getaway for Bay Area families. California’s Great America is Northern California’s best choice for family fun and adventure and offers guests a wide-variety of exciting entertainment options this summer including:
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New! FireFall

Taking guests head-over-heels is FireFall, an extreme thrill ride that sends 40 brave riders to a height of sixty-feet and subjects them to a series of high-speed inversions. If that’s not enough, while spinning, flipping and turning, this already unique three-minute ride experience is enhanced with in-your-face fire and water special effects. FireFall is now open and promises to be the hottest ticket for thrill seekers in 2008!
New! “Endless Summer on Ice” Show
Adding to its already stellar entertainment program, California’s Great America will be offering yet another opportunity for park goers to beat the heat this summer with the debut of “Endless Summer on Ice.” Taking place in the newly-named “Great America Theater,” the 30-minute ice spectacular will feature an ensemble of professional ice skaters, lavish sets, dazzling costumes and an upbeat soundtrack that’s sure to have guests dancing in their seats. “Endless Summer on Ice” takes the stage May 31.
New! Extended Summer Hours
With so much to see and do, California’s Great America will now offer extended operating hours staying open as late as 10 p.m. the majority of the summer. Extended operating hours will give park goers the opportunity to enjoy the park even later, giving them even more time to experience many of the new attractions awaiting them this season.
Now Open! Boomerang Bay Beach Club
Beat the heat and head out to Boomerang Bay Beach Club at California’s Great America! The Australian-themed Boomerang Bay Beach Club offers more than 13-acres of water park fun and excitement and includes a 355,000 gallon wave pool, heated lagoon, lazy river, 13 water slides and exclusive, poolside cabanas (limited number of cabanas, nominal fee applies). California’s Great America continues to be the state’s only combination theme and water park.
Opens June 14! The Misfit of Magic
The Misfit of Magic, international comedic magician Ed Alonzo, 2-time winner of the ‘Stage Magician of the Year’ and best know as Max on “Saved by the Bell” makes his return to California’s Great America’s Showtime Theatre this summer. Ed’s amazing illusions are hilarious, mesmerizing and fun for all ages. Don’t miss seeing this show — there’s no one like Ed!
California’s Great America is now open daily for summer operation through August 25. The park opens daily at 10 a.m. Closing times vary. Visit to view our complete 2008 operating calendar.
Guests looking to enjoy a full season of family fun at California’s Great America can now choose from three different season pass options. All season passes now include free parking at California’s Great America. For more information regarding the park’s season pass program, call 408-988-1776 or order online via the park’s website at . California’s Great America is conveniently located just 50 miles south of San Francisco and 6 miles north of San Jose on Great America Pkwy. between highways 101 and 237 in Santa Clara, Calif.
California’s Great America is owned and operated by Cedar Fair Entertainment Company. In addition to California’s Great America, Cedar Fair owns and operates 10 other amusement parks, five outdoor water parks, one indoor water park resort and six hotels. Cedar Fair also owns and operates Star Trek: The Experience, an interactive adventure located in Las Vegas, and operates the Gilroy Gardens Family Theme Park in Gilroy, Calif. under a management contract.
For more information, visit or call 408-988-1776.

California’s Great America

The McLean Group Completes Two Travel & Hospitality M&A Deals

MCLEAN, Va., May 27 /PRNewswire/ — The McLean Group, LLC announced today that it represented two travel & hospitality companies in M&A advisory transactions, resulting in three industry deals within the past three months. The two newly announced transactions include:
— The sale of selected assets of San Diego-based RFP Express, Inc. to a
wholly-owned subsidiary of Dallas, Texas-based Lanyon, Inc. Lanyon is a
leading provider of RFP and content management technology solutions to
the travel & hospitality industry. RFP Express is a leading provider of
RFP processing services to hotel chains, groups, corporations, travel
management companies and independent hotels.
— Todd E. Tyler, President and CEO of Lanyon, said “The acquisition of
RFP Express assets enables Lanyon to become the preeminent market
leader in RFP services to the hotel- and corporate-travel
communities.”
— Zim Putney, Chairman of RFP Express said, “The combination of both
companies’ people, clients and products make a great deal of sense
and we are very pleased with the outcome.”
— Gary Rectenwald, CEO of RFP Express said, “This is a merger of
products and support services for two established industry leaders in
the corporate and hotel market segments of the global hospitality
industry.”

— The management buy-out (MBO) of Cwmbran, Wales-based Comtec (Europe)
led by RJD Partners, a United Kingdom private equity group. Working
with its UK-based partner, Clearwater Corporate Finance, The McLean
Group provided its extensive industry investment banking deal
experience and expertise. Comtec is a market-leading provider of
technology solutions to the travel industry, supplying software capable
of managing front-, mid- and back-office functions.

The McLean Group’s travel & hospitality Managing Director, John Rovani, said, “We are pleased for both RFP Express and Comtec (Europe). We believe that our industry contacts, transaction experience and regimented process uniquely enable us to find the best opportunities for our clients.”
About The McLean Group
The McLean Group is a national, middle-market investment bank providing M&A, capital formation, market intelligence, business valuation, and exit planning services. Headquartered in the Washington, DC area, the firm serves clients around the world. Please visit .
If you would like more information, please contact John Rovani at (703) 827-0200 or .

The McLean Group, LLC

TripAdvisor Announces Top 10 Free U.S. Attractions

NEWTON, Mass., May 22 /PRNewswire/ — TripAdvisor(R), the world’s largest travel community, today announced the top 10 free attractions in the U.S. and Europe, according to traveler popularity and TripAdvisor editors.
Top 10 Free U.S. Attractions
1. Bellagio Fountains, Las Vegas, Nevada
2. Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, Virginia
3. Waimea Canyon, Waimea, Hawaii
4. Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco, California
5. Angel’s Landing, Zion National Park, Utah
6. U.S.S. Arizona Memorial, Honolulu, Hawaii
7. Pacific Coast Highway, Route 1, California
8. United States Holocaust Memorial Museum, Washington, D.C.
9. Freedom Trail, Boston, Massachusetts
10. Central Park, New York, New York

Top 10 Free European Attractions
1. Pantheon, Rome, Italy
2. National Gallery, London, England
3. Museum of the Jewellery Quarter, Birmingham, England
4. Notre Dame Cathedral, Paris, France
5. St. Michael and St. Gudula Cathedral, Brussels, Belgium
6. Duomo - Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, Florence, Italy
7. Retiro Park, Madrid, Spain
8. Westminster Abbey, London, England
9. St. Mark’s Basilica, Venice, Italy
10. Giant’s Causeway, Bushmills, Northern Ireland

“As travelers look for ways to save on their vacation this summer, TripAdvisor has recommended top attractions with a price that appeals to even the most frugal visitors,” said Michele Perry, vice president of global communications for TripAdvisor.
About TripAdvisor Media Network
TripAdvisor(R) Media Network, operated by TripAdvisor, LLC, attracts nearly 30 million monthly visitors* across ten popular travel brands, TripAdvisor(R), airfarewatchdog.com(TM), bookingbuddy.com (TM), cruisecritic.com(TM), holidaywatchdog.com(TM), independenttraveler.com(TM), seatguru.com(R), smartertravel.com(TM), travel-library.com(TM) and travelpod.com(TM). TripAdvisor-branded sites make up the largest travel community in the world, with more than 25 million monthly visitors*, six million registered members and 15 million reviews and opinions. Featuring real advice from real travelers, TripAdvisor-branded sites cover 300,000 hotels and attractions and operate in the U.S. (), the U.K. (), Ireland (), France (), Germany (), Italy (), and Spain (). TripAdvisor(R) Media Network provides travel suppliers with graphical advertising opportunities and a cost-per-click marketing platform. Collectively, the sites comprising the TripAdvisor Media Network have won hundreds of awards and accolades from press and industry worldwide. TripAdvisor and the sites comprising the TripAdvisor Media Network are operating companies of Expedia, Inc. .
TripAdvisor, SeatGuru, Travel-Library, Holiday Watchdog and TravelPod are either registered trademarks or trademarks of TripAdvisor LLC in the U.S. and/or other countries. Airfarewatchdog, Booking Buddy and Smarter travel are either trademarks or registered trademarks of Smarter travel Media LLC in the U.S. and/or other countries. Cruise Critic and The Independent Traveler are either trademarks or registered trademarks of The Independent Traveler, Inc. in the U.S. and/or other countries. Other logos or product and company names mentioned herein may be the property of their respective owners.
*Source: comScore Media Metrix, Digital Calculator Report, July 2007
TripAdvisor

Expedia Adds More Fuel to Their Summer Sale With Free Gas

BELLEVUE, Wash., May 19 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ — Gas prices got you down? Expedia(R) says “fill ‘er up!” The world’s leading online travel company today announced another incentive to hit the road this summer. Every Monday through Friday, each week through the end of June, Expedia is rewarding travelers with a free $50 Gas Money Prepaid Mastercard(R) when they book a hotel stay of three or more nights. Part of Expedia’s “Summer of Adventure” Sale, the offer is good for stays at hundreds of participating hotels across the U.S., and the cards are redeemable through August 31, 2008 at virtually any gas station.
“Summer vacation is an American institution and we want to ensure that the price of gas doesn’t come between travelers and this precious time to get away,” said Paul Brown, president, Expedia.com. “Between this pre-paid gas card and the thousands of deals running in our summer sale, we’re offering values that will allow all travelers to plan the summer adventure getaway that is right for them.”
Expedia’s Summer of Adventure Sale is the largest in the site’s history, with up to 30 percent off hotels, cruises, car rentals and activities in more than 220 destinations in the U.S. and abroad — and more deals added daily (). Examples of hotels participating in the summer sale and free gas card incentive include:
— Kona Kai Resort in San Diego: Three-star resort with standalone stays
from $167 per night
— Hotel ZaZa in Houston: Four-star hotel with standalone stays from $134
per night
— Hotel Blake in Chicago: Three-and-a-half-star hotel with standalone
stays from $149
— Sonesta Bayfront Hotel Coconut Grove in Miami: Four-star hotel with
standalone hotel stays from $199 per night
— Roosevelt Hotel in New York: Three-and-a-half-star hotel with
standalone stays from $299 a night

About Expedia

Expedia (R) is the world’s leading online travel provider, helping millions of travelers per month easily plan and book travel. Expedia () aims to provide personalized service, the latest technology and the widest selection of vacation packages, flights, hotels, rental cars, cruises and in-destination activities, attractions, and services. With the Expedia(R) Best Price Guarantee, Expedia promises to offer to its customers the best rates available online for all types of travel, making it the most comprehensive customer guarantee in online travel. Expedia is dedicated to positively impacting global tourism by providing travelers environmentally conscious travel options. Expedia is a founding member of the World Heritage Alliance — a joint initiative with the United Nations Foundation to promote sustainable tourism. Expedia is an operating company of Expedia, Inc. .
Expedia and Expedia.com are either registered trademarks or trademarks of Expedia, Inc. in the U.S. and/or other countries. Other logos or product and company names mentioned herein may be the property of their respective owners.
Expedia, Inc.

Magazine: UK Travellers Fancy the Flatotel for Meeting Their Business Needs Across the Atlantic

NEW YORK, May 9 /PRNewswire/ — - Special Summer Rates Available - - Named Executive Accommodation for 2008 by Business Britain Magazine - New York City’s Flatotel, which continues to be the choice ofdiscriminating UK business travellers for its top-notch meeting facilities,state-of-the-art amenities, and large and luxurious suites and penthouses,according to Business Britain Magazine, today announced special summer ratesfor business travellers. Flatotel designs its rooms to provide customers with the lavishness theywould expect in a superior New York hotel, and the modern business amenitiesthey require to perform optimally away from home. The Flatotel was named byBusiness Britain Magazine “Executive Accommodation for 2008″ as a result ofits ideal, mid-Manhattan business location, renowned customer relations,cost-effectiveness and more. In honour of this distinction, the Flatotel is offering businesstravellers from the United Kingdom special rates this summer. Guests who bookby June 30th can enjoy a luxurious stay in a junior studio business suitewith full kitchen (select suites have a balcony) for US$429; or a stay in aone-bedroom suite for US$529. Reservations and rates apply to travelbeginning at the end of June, and through July and August. Situated in the heart of Manhattan, the Flatotel is near many majormultinational corporations, the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center, flagshipdesigner boutiques of Fifth and Madison Avenues, and legendary landmarks andcultural attractions such as the Museum of Modern Art, Rockefeller Center,Broadway, Carnegie Hall and Central Park. With a bold name and concept thatoriginates from the English word “flat” for apartment and “hotel” forflexible length of stay, the Flatotel is a four-star rated, stylishalternative to a big midtown hotel. All Flatotel suites boast modern amenities that complement work andleisure including workspace with large desk and Aeron Chair, a laptop-sizesafe; voice mail, data port, dual phone lines and Internet access; a SonyWega Flat Screen TV featuring DIRECTTV and premium cable; and custom bed withgoose down duvets and Egyptian cotton sheets. Among the other services andamenities on property are a full-service business centre with computer,Internet and fax services; concierge services and complimentary use of theFlatotel’s Sky Gym Fitness Center and access to The Athletic & Swim Club andOlympic-size swimming pool. For business executives who require more face-time with clients andcolleagues, the Flatotel offers several venues for corporate meetings andspecial events. A 2,400 square foot conference centre is equipped withstate-of-the-art technological capabilities that include video conferencingwith built-in plasma screens, high speed Internet connections and a separateregistration area to facilitate information flow to attendees. WiFi isavailable in the lobby, conference centre and lounge. An entire floor of 17breakout suites make for an ideal location for training rooms, fashiondisplays and product launches. In addition, MODA, Flatotel’s in-house eatery, can host board meetingsfrom 10 to 400 people, large cocktail receptions and corporate events in itscovered outdoor patio space. To inquire about the special UK business traveller summer rates or foradditional travel information, please contact 1-800-352-8683, or bookdirectly on www.flatotel.com. About the Flatotel: The Flatotel is an independent boutique hotel locatedin midtown Manhattan, featuring 288 deluxe rooms and suites available totravellers of all types. In addition, the contemporary property features2,400 sq feet of meeting and outdoor event space, MODA Restaurant, and abusiness centre. Web site: http://www.flatotel.comFlatotel

British Virgin Islands Resort Offers New Twist on Father’s Day ‘Tie’

TORTOLA, British Virgin Islands, April 29 /PRNewswire/ — This Father’s Day, instead of yet another tie to politely tuck into his closet, consider giving your father a Mai Tai in the BVI (British Virgin Islands). The casually-elegant, plantation-style Long Bay Beach Resort & Villas’ three-night “Explore the BVI” package makes a great gift for busy dads, who can book this relaxing Caribbean discovery getaway any time between now and December 20, 2008.Priced at $599 per person based on double occupancy, the package features a fun-filled island-hopping day sail to neighboring islands on the lovely “Mystique” with lunch, open bar and snorkeling. Also included are Hillside Oceanview Deluxe accommodations; full American breakfasts daily; a one-day car rental on Tortola; and tax and service charges. Additional nights are available priced at $175 per night.”Tortola is made for exploring. This package combines two of the most popular activities, making it an ideal Father’s Day gift for use as a romantic escape, or for dads to savor new Caribbean experiences with the whole family,” said Steven E. Heydt, Elite Island Resorts’ president.Home to Long Bay Resort & Villas, Tortola is a fun island to explore by car. Its rustic mountains have centuries-old ruins of forts and other historic sites, and its beaches include surfing spots and family-friendly calm waters. Road Town, the capital, offers relaxed shopping and dining. Tortola is also a popular jumping off point for sailing trips to nearby islands.Long Bay Beach Resort & Villas is a destination in itself, with verdant hills overlooking a stunning mile-long white sand beach. Its 157 beautiful guest rooms and villas are hidden away on a 52-acre estate, giving guests a feeling of exclusivity and privacy. On site are three restaurants and bars, a pool with a swim-up bar, a spa and salon, tennis courts, a fitness center and a dive shop. The resort is a member of Elite Island Resorts — the second-largest independently owned Caribbean hospitality group — known for its eco-friendly, casually elegant resorts, stunning locations, and caring, personal service. For reservations, call (800) 345-0356 or visit . Elite Island Resorts

American Airlines and Nokia Announce American’s ‘On the Move’ Sweepstakes and ‘Instant Win’ Game

FORT WORTH, Texas, April 21 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ — American Airlines, AA.com and Nokia have teamed to make your next visit to the new, mobile version of AA.com even more rewarding. The American Airlines “On the Move” sweepstakes and “Instant Win” game offer multiple chances to win one of several exciting prizes, including a trip for two to Los Angeles with tickets to a red-carpet event at Nokia Theatre LA Live, Nokia N95 mobile devices, and up to 100,000 AAdvantage(R) miles.Simply go to from any computer with Internet access to register for the sweepstakes and learn about the mobile version of AA.com. Then, you can play the Instant Win portion by accessing the mobile version of AA.com from any Web-enabled mobile device.”This promotion is a fun way to highlight the fact that our mobile version of AA.com enables travelers to access many of the helpful features on AA.com via a Web-enabled cell phone or device, without the need for a desktop or laptop computer,” said Derek DeCross, American’s Managing Director - Interactive Marketing. “We continue to strive to enhance the travel experience for our customers, and the mobile version of AA.com is another way we’ve done that.”Both the On the Move sweepstakes and the Instant Win game run through June 16, 2008. No purchase is required for either promotion. Here are the highlights of both promotions:On the Move SweepstakesThere are two ways to enter the On the Move Sweepstakes, and a total of two entries are allowed in any combination: — Receive one entry each time you register at during the promotional period. — Receive one entry for visiting AA.com on your mobile phone or Web-enabled device. — Receive one entry for “referring a friend” by forwarding the sweepstakes information to others (up to three people).However you choose to enter, you will be eligible to win the Grand Prize, which is a trip for two to Los Angeles, including airfare and spending money, along with tickets to a red-carpet event at Nokia Theatre LA Live. One Grand Prize will be awarded.Additionally, 61 First Prizes of Nokia N95 mobile devices will be awarded, which is one prize for every day of the promotion. All winners will be selected in random drawings. “Instant Win Game”The Instant Win Game offers the opportunity to win simply by visiting AA.com by mobile phone.Each time you use a mobile device to access AA.com during the promotion period (up to once a day), you will have a chance to be an instant winner of thousands of AAdvantage miles. One winner will receive the Grand Prize of 100,000 AAdvantage miles, while eight First Prize winners each will be awarded 10,000 AAdvantage miles.All winners will be selected at random, so your next visit to the mobile version of AA.com could earn you enough miles to plan the dream trip of a lifetime.Even if you’re not a sweepstakes or instant prize winner, you will enjoy the convenience of having AA.com available whenever and wherever your cell phone or Web-enabled device works. You can use the mobile version of AA.com to check schedules and book flights, view itineraries or change reservations, view fare specials, check in for a flight or check flight status, request upgrades, enroll in the AAdvantage program or view miles, access information on Admirals Club(R) locations, purchase a one-day pass, find information on destinations, weather or airports — all from your Web-enabled cell phone or device.Accessing AA.com from a mobile phone or PDA is easy — simply type into a device to be automatically directed to the mobile version of AA.com. The content is condensed and the design is simplified from the desktop or laptop version of AA.com, making for faster connections and easier navigation. A full, traditional version of AA.com is also available simply by clicking on a link at the bottom of the page.For more information on the mobile version of AA.com visit . For complete sweepstakes and game details, as well as Terms and Conditions, visit .About AA.comWith more than 1.6 million site visits per day, AA.com is American’s largest distribution channel and the best place to do business online with the airline, 24-7. At AA.com you can conveniently search for and book low fares and award travel; select seats; make hotel, rental car and cruise reservations; get flight arrival and departure information; sign up for flight status notification and even check in and print boarding passes. You can also manage your AAdvantage account at AA.com, as well as sign up to receive emails from American and get customized DealFinder(SM) alerts and other special offers. Customers who purchase tickets at AA.com get a lowest-fare guarantee and don’t pay an online booking fee. AA.com has twice received the World Travel Award for World’s Leading Airline Internet Site and has received multiple site awards from various organizations.About American AirlinesAmerican Airlines is the world’s largest airline. American, American Eagle and the AmericanConnection(R) airlines serve 250 cities in over 40 countries with more than 4,000 daily flights. The combined network fleet numbers more than 1,000 aircraft. American’s award-winning Web site, AA.com, provides users with easy access to check and book fares, plus personalized news, information and travel offers. American Airlines is a founding member of the oneworld(R) Alliance, which brings together some of the best and biggest names in the airline business, enabling them to offer their customers more services and benefits than any airline can provide on its own. Together, its members serve nearly 700 destinations in over 140 countries and territories. American Airlines, Inc. and American Eagle Airlines, Inc. are subsidiaries of AMR Corporation. AmericanAirlines, American Eagle, AmericanConnection, AA.com, We know why you fly, Admirals Club and AAdvantage are registered trademarks of American Airlines, Inc. AmericanAirlines(R) We know why you fly(R) Current AMR Corp. releases can be accessed on the Internet. The address is http://www.aa.comAmerican Airlines

Crestline Hotels & Resorts Appoints Daniel Williams, CHA, General Manager for the Crowne Plaza Englewood, NJ

MCLEAN, Va. and ENGLEWOOD, N.J., April 21 /PRNewswire/ — Crestline Hotels & Resorts, Inc. today announced its appointment of Daniel Williams, CHA, as General Manager for the 194 guest room Crowne Plaza Englewood hotel in New Jersey. Crestline Hotels & Resorts manages the hotel for owners Trinity Hotel Investors, LLC. The hotel recently completed a renovation and features 6,588 square feet of meeting space. It is conveniently located in suburban NJ, only 15 miles from Manhattan and seven miles from the Meadowlands.Mr. Williams joins Crestline from Grand Heritage Hotels International where he was the Regional Director in Portland, Oregon overseeing both the Governor Hotel and the Avalon Hotel and Spa. Prior to that, he was General Manager of the Providence Biltmore Hotel, also a Grand Heritage property, and oversaw a $15 million dollar renovation. He brings more than 30 years of hospitality industry management and operations experience to his new role. Mr. Williams has also held positions with Six Flags Great Escape Lodge and Indoor Waterpark, Pacific Concord Investment Corporation, Nemacolin Woodlands Resort and Pickett Suite Hotels.”Dan’s extensive management and operations background is a true asset for the Crowne Plaza Englewood,” said Dave Durbin, President & CEO of Crestline Hotels & Resorts. “He brings a strong track record to his new role of growing revenue while enhancing guest service and amenities,” added Durbin.Mr. Williams holds a B.S.B.A. from West Chester University and attended graduate school at St. Joseph’s University. He is a Certified Hotel Administrator (CHA). Mr. Williams can be reached at: .About The Crowne Plaza Englewood, NJThe recently renovated Crowne Plaza Englewood, NJ is an upscale hotel and meetings facility. Its 194 guestrooms and suites are well-appointed for business and leisure travelers. The hotel’s 6,588 square feet of meeting space can accommodate groups of up to 275 people. Each guestroom includes amenities such as the Crowne Plaza Sleep Advantage bedding, complimentary morning newspaper, an in-room coffee maker, high speed Internet access, as well as an office-style desk and chair. The hotel also offers an indoor swimming pool and whirlpool. For dining, Carlyle’s Restaurant serves a fine selection of American cuisine for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Room service is also available.The Crown Plaza Englewood is conveniently located at 401 South Van Brunt Street in Englewood, NJ, off of Route 4. The hotel is about 15 miles from Manhattan and the NY Convention Center. It is also a short drive to the Meadowlands and Giants Stadium, as well as to Yankee Stadium and other New York attractions. It is accessed from Newark International Airport, LaGuardia Airport or Kennedy International Airport via shuttle service and taxis. Both valet and self-parking are available. Upscale shopping is located just two miles from the hotel. For more information and reservations, visit online at or call 201-871-2020. About the Company: Crestline Hotels & Resorts, Inc.Crestline Hotels & Resorts, Inc. is one of the nation’s largest independent hospitality management companies. Founded in 2000, the company presently manages 51 hotels, resorts and conference and convention centers with nearly 11,900 rooms in 13 states and the District of Columbia. Crestline Hotels & Resorts manages over 12 independent properties in major US markets including Atlanta, Houston, Los Angeles and Washington D.C. Crestline also manages properties under such well-regarded brands as Marriott, Hilton, Westin, Renaissance, Sheraton, Crowne Plaza and Wyndham. For more information visit .Note: Certain matters discussed herein are forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Certain, but not necessarily all, of such statements can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology, such as “believes,”"expects,”"may,”"will,”"should,”"estimates” or “anticipates” or the negative thereof or comparable terminology. Crestline Hotels & Resorts, Inc.

Joie de Vivre Introduces Domain: April 17

SAN FRANCISCO, April 18 /PRNewswire/ — Joie de Vivre Hospitality has announced its latest innovation in the hotel world — Domain Hotel — located in Sunnyvale, California. After a complete renovation, the former Radisson will be re-introduced on April 17, 2008, with a new identity fitting with its Santa Clara-meets-Sunnyvale location.One of the few hotels going ‘green’ in the south bay, the new Domain Hotel, offering 124 rooms and 12 suites on three levels, is decorated in two themes — Tranquility and Awakening — each of which are offered upon check-in, depending on the guest’s preference. If one is seeking an ‘Awakening’, it’s possible to reserve one of the rooms where the outside is brought in: A bright, expressive green room with natural accents to stimulate the senses such as fresh sprigs of lemongrass. In alternating rooms, guests will find the ‘Tranquility’ of the coast, complete with colorful and textural blue hues and a lavender bloom to calm and refresh the industrious traveling worker.The contemporary guest rooms feature flat-panel HD televisions that double as 32-inch computer monitors, Lather bath products, sleep number beds, complimentary wired and wireless hi-speed Internet access, iPod docking stations and simple, efficient workspaces. Amenities at Domain Hotel are intended to appeal to the connected traveler and include a complimentary nightly wine-down hour featuring local-vineyard California wines, daily shuttle service to/from local corporate offices, a state-of-the-art business center, a complimentary hot breakfast and at check-in, a choice of either relaxing or energizing choice of sachet or herbally-infused cookie.The common areas of Domain Hotel will also reflect the property’s intersection between nature and technology with a welcoming water feature, a dramatic bamboo garden and an expression of Northern California’s redwood forests. Signage about environmentally “green” elements will let guests know that they are supporting sustainable business practices throughout the hotel. The combined 9,000 square-feet of meeting and event facilities inside the hotel will cater to the business and social needs of guests and the community, accommodating groups from 10 to 400. Additionally, the outdoor pool and lounge areas with adjacent fitness center are sure to become a favorite stop in Silicon Valley.Guests of Domain Hotel will enjoy the on-site full service restaurant Bytes, featuring a menu of big drinks and small plates that incorporate seasonally available fresh produce and Northern California favorites. Bytes is partnering with several local vineyards to host poolside wine tasting and pairing events during spring, summer and fall.Domain Hotel is located at 1085 East El Camino Real in Sunnyvale. The hotel can be reached by calling (408) 247-0800 or toll-free at (877) 220-0252. For further information please visit the web site at .About Joie de Vivre HospitalityBased in San Francisco, Joie de Vivre Hospitality () is a creative collection of lifestyle businesses. As California’s largest independent boutique hotelier, Joie de Vivre encompasses other hospitality businesses such as restaurants and spas. Celebrating 20 years of creating dreams, Joie de Vivre Hospitality is expanding its California presence in Sacramento, Oakland, San Francisco, Santa Cruz, Huntington Beach and beyond. Joie de Vivre Hospitality