News

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  1. Rail Europe, Switzerland Tourism Offer Swiss Bliss Deal

    Rail Europe Inc., Switzerland Tourism and the Swiss Travel System are teaming up this summer to offer the Swiss Bliss Deal, inviting all travelers to take advantage of the outdoors and explore Switzerland. The Swiss Pass is an inexpensive way to experience the country by allowing unlimited travel on all trains, boats and postal buses which make up the Swiss Travel System. It is particularly convenient for families, as kids up to 16 years of age always ride for free when accompanied by a parent and all Swiss Pass holders get free access to more than 400 museums in Switzerland. Prices on the four-day Swiss Pass start at $361 in first class and $241 in second class. The Swiss Bliss Deal is available for purchase from July 15 through July 21. Travel must take place from Aug. 1 through Nov. 30.


    Amtrak and Concur, a leading provider of on-demand Employee Spend Management services, announced that Concur Travel & Expense and Concur Cliqbook Travel clients now have direct access to book travel on any Amtrak route nationwide. Concur clients may now view, hold, reserve and purchase Amtrak rail travel -- and compare rail and air travel options -- all on one screen.


    With this new direct connection to Amtrak’s reservations system, Concur clients will be able to add rail to their travel plans in the same way they already book air, car, or hotel reservations, and enjoy all of these additional benefits: Expanded route map to include all key Amtrak business travel corridors; mixed rail and air display to allow for comparison of travel options; direct passage of Amtrak Guest Rewards number into the Concur system; full support for Amtrak special rates; ability to book multi-segment trips; ability to cancel or put rail trips on hold; payment and ticketing with no agency intervention; support of all passenger type codes.


    “The direct connection between Amtrak’s reservations system and the Concur Connect program will not only provide easier access for Amtrak passengers booking rail travel, it will also provide a side-by-side comparison of a client’s rail and air travel options,” said Craig White senior director of travel industry sales. “This comparison will show Concur clients that rail travel is a very attractive and viable option, particularly along Amtrak’s busy Northeast Corridor between Washington, DC, New York and Boston.”


    Through Concur Connect – the global program that connects suppliers from around the world and provides clients exclusive access to services otherwise unavailable though traditional travel programs – Amtrak joins a growing list of travel suppliers that feed complete electronic folio data in the form of e-receipts directly into Concur Travel & Expense. For more information, visit www.concur.com  or www.amtrak.com.  

     

    Alamos Rent A Car and National Car Rental have re-launched their joint Cash-In Club loyalty rewards program for travel agents with an updated website, flexible rewards and an updated promotion. Since 1995, Alamo and National have partnered with U.S. travel agents who book rental car as Cash-In Club members. The revamp includes new tools and better incentives, according to Ron Cerko, vice president of travel industry relations for Alamo and National.


    The Cash-In Club promotion is being offered to all U.S.-resident travel agents who book a qualified reservation through October 2010. Program members will be automatically entered to win every time they reserve a car with Alamo or National. The grand prize winner will receive 15,000 points. The second place winner will receive 10,000 points and the third place winner receives 5,000 points. Winners will be announced in November 2010.


    Cash-In Club was originally created to offer travel agents the chance to receive competitive rates and quality rental vehicles for their clients and to reward them for their long-term business. The enhanced program agents to also incorporate award points into American Express-branded reward cards. For more information, visit www.cashinclub.travel or www.rewards.cashinclub.travel.
     

    Rail Europe Inc., Switzerland Tourism and the Swiss Travel System are teaming up this summer to offer the Swiss Bliss Deal, inviting all travelers to take advantage of the outdoors and explore Switzerland. The Swiss Pass is an inexpensive way to experience the country by allowing unlimited travel on all trains, boats and postal buses which make up the Swiss Travel System. It is particularly convenient for families, as kids up to 16 years of age always ride for free when accompanied by a parent and all Swiss Pass holders get free access to more than 400 museums in Switzerland. Prices on the four-day Swiss Pass start at $361 in first class and $241 in second class. The Swiss Bliss Deal is available for purchase from July 15 through July 21. Travel must take place from Aug. 1 through Nov. 30.


    The Swiss Bliss Deal includes limited-time offers on special value-added components with a purchase of the Swiss Pass. Passengers who purchase the Swiss Pass through Rail Europe will also receive roundtrip tickets for up to 50 percent off the regularly reduced Swiss Pass holder one-way fare on the mountain railways or cable cars that carry passengers to the Swiss mountain peaks of Titlis, Pilatus, Schilthorn, Stanserhorn and Rocher de Naye; one free fast baggage voucher, which is valid for the transfer of one bag per person one way between most train stations in Switzerland (certain restrictions apply); 20 percent discount from Victorinox on luggage at the Victorinox/Swiss Army stores in Geneva or Basel, Switzerland and New York, N.Y., valid on all purchases made from July 22 through Nov. 30; and a detailed map of Switzerland created by National Geographic Traveler.


    Switzerland Tourism recently named 2010 an official hiking year and outlined 32 trails for travelers to discover some of the world’s finest backdrops. In an effort to promote an active lifestyle, many of the highlighted routes are geared toward families and beginner level hikers. However, the country also offers numerous rigorous trails for more experienced outdoor enthusiasts. For more information, call 888-382-7245 or visit www.agent.raileurope.com.

     



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  2. Orient Express Adds New Southeast Asian Rail Itineraries

    This November, Orient-Express is introducing the Chronicles of Southeast Asia -- four new journeys that enable guests on the E&O to experience the region in greater depth. The new itineraries will take passengers in comfort to places off the beaten track and essentially turn the train into a touring hotel. To ensure ultimate exclusivity and a more personalized experience, capacity on each trip will be limited to 60 guests and only presidential and state carriages will be in use.


    Amtrak and Concur, a leading provider of on-demand Employee Spend Management services, announced that Concur Travel & Expense and Concur Cliqbook Travel clients now have direct access to book travel on any Amtrak route nationwide. Concur clients may now view, hold, reserve and purchase Amtrak rail travel -- and compare rail and air travel options -- all on one screen.


    With this new direct connection to Amtrak’s reservations system, Concur clients will be able to add rail to their travel plans in the same way they already book air, car, or hotel reservations, and enjoy all of these additional benefits: Expanded route map to include all key Amtrak business travel corridors; mixed rail and air display to allow for comparison of travel options; direct passage of Amtrak Guest Rewards number into the Concur system; full support for Amtrak special rates; ability to book multi-segment trips; ability to cancel or put rail trips on hold; payment and ticketing with no agency intervention; support of all passenger type codes.


    “The direct connection between Amtrak’s reservations system and the Concur Connect program will not only provide easier access for Amtrak passengers booking rail travel, it will also provide a side-by-side comparison of a client’s rail and air travel options,” said Craig White senior director of travel industry sales. “This comparison will show Concur clients that rail travel is a very attractive and viable option, particularly along Amtrak’s busy Northeast Corridor between Washington, DC, New York and Boston.”


    Through Concur Connect – the global program that connects suppliers from around the world and provides clients exclusive access to services otherwise unavailable though traditional travel programs – Amtrak joins a growing list of travel suppliers that feed complete electronic folio data in the form of e-receipts directly into Concur Travel & Expense. For more information, visit www.concur.com  or www.amtrak.com.  

     

    Alamos Rent A Car and National Car Rental have re-launched their joint Cash-In Club loyalty rewards program for travel agents with an updated website, flexible rewards and an updated promotion. Since 1995, Alamo and National have partnered with U.S. travel agents who book rental car as Cash-In Club members. The revamp includes new tools and better incentives, according to Ron Cerko, vice president of travel industry relations for Alamo and National.


    The Cash-In Club promotion is being offered to all U.S.-resident travel agents who book a qualified reservation through October 2010. Program members will be automatically entered to win every time they reserve a car with Alamo or National. The grand prize winner will receive 15,000 points. The second place winner will receive 10,000 points and the third place winner receives 5,000 points. Winners will be announced in November 2010.


    Cash-In Club was originally created to offer travel agents the chance to receive competitive rates and quality rental vehicles for their clients and to reward them for their long-term business. The enhanced program agents to also incorporate award points into American Express-branded reward cards. For more information, visit www.cashinclub.travel or www.rewards.cashinclub.travel.
     

    Rail Europe Inc., Switzerland Tourism and the Swiss Travel System are teaming up this summer to offer the Swiss Bliss Deal, inviting all travelers to take advantage of the outdoors and explore Switzerland. The Swiss Pass is an inexpensive way to experience the country by allowing unlimited travel on all trains, boats and postal buses which make up the Swiss Travel System. It is particularly convenient for families, as kids up to 16 years of age always ride for free when accompanied by a parent and all Swiss Pass holders get free access to more than 400 museums in Switzerland. Prices on the four-day Swiss Pass start at $361 in first class and $241 in second class. The Swiss Bliss Deal is available for purchase from July 15 through July 21. Travel must take place from Aug. 1 through Nov. 30.


    The Swiss Bliss Deal includes limited-time offers on special value-added components with a purchase of the Swiss Pass. Passengers who purchase the Swiss Pass through Rail Europe will also receive roundtrip tickets for up to 50 percent off the regularly reduced Swiss Pass holder one-way fare on the mountain railways or cable cars that carry passengers to the Swiss mountain peaks of Titlis, Pilatus, Schilthorn, Stanserhorn and Rocher de Naye; one free fast baggage voucher, which is valid for the transfer of one bag per person one way between most train stations in Switzerland (certain restrictions apply); 20 percent discount from Victorinox on luggage at the Victorinox/Swiss Army stores in Geneva or Basel, Switzerland and New York, N.Y., valid on all purchases made from July 22 through Nov. 30; and a detailed map of Switzerland created by National Geographic Traveler.


    Switzerland Tourism recently named 2010 an official hiking year and outlined 32 trails for travelers to discover some of the world’s finest backdrops. In an effort to promote an active lifestyle, many of the highlighted routes are geared toward families and beginner level hikers. However, the country also offers numerous rigorous trails for more experienced outdoor enthusiasts. For more information, call 888-382-7245 or visit www.agent.raileurope.com.

     

    Amtrak launched a “Create Our Contest Contest,” a summer-long campaign that invites the general public to develop what will become Amtrak’s first user-generated contest. The goal of the campaign is to actively engage Amtrak’s most loyal customers through social networking. To enter the contest users, should log on to www.Facebook.com/Amtrak  and submit their ideas in essay or video form by Aug. 2. All approved entries will be uploaded to Amtrak’s Facebook fan page, where users can vote for their favorite contest idea. Entries that receive the top 25 percent of all votes will be reviewed by a panel of judges to determine the winner. The grand prize -- which will be awarded in September -- is a roundtrip for four to anywhere Amtrak travels.


    “Amtrak’s customers are enthusiastic, highly creative people who showcase their love for train travel in many different ways,” said David Lim, Amtrak’s chief marketing officer. “We want to harness this creativity and engage our fans by asking them to develop their dream contest.” Amtrak partnered with their advertising agency Arnold Worldwide’s D.C. office on the concept and all creative campaign elements for the contest. The contest will be promoted by paid advertisements on Facebook, and social media outreach on Twitter and Facebook, among other efforts. For a complete list of contest rules and regulations, visit www.apps.facebook.com/amtrakcontest/rules.  

     

    This November, Orient-Express is introducing the Chronicles of Southeast Asia -- four new journeys that enable guests on the E&O to experience the region in greater depth. The new itineraries will take passengers in comfort to places off the beaten track and essentially turn the train into a touring hotel. To ensure ultimate exclusivity and a more personalized experience, capacity on each trip will be limited to 60 guests and only presidential and state carriages will be in use.


    The new routes include: Epic Thailand (six nights) -- Bangkok/Isan/Chiang Mai/Lampang/Bangkok visiting sites in Northern Thailand. Highlights include a walking tour through a traditional village in Isan; a sunset candlelight reception at Prasat Sikoraphum (a restored 12th century Khmer Temple), lunch with the first female Thai oenologist at Khao Yai Gran Monte Vineyard, the opportunity to participate in a Bai Sii (sacred thread) ceremony, and touring the town of Lampang "wild-west style" in a traditional pony trap.


    Fables of the Hills (six nights) -- Singapore/Kuala Lumpur/Cameron Highlands (overnight)/Penang/Surat Thani/River Kwai/Bangkok. Highlights include Kuala Lumpur city tour, including a visit to "The School of Hard Knocks" (for the history and facts of pewter), Strawberry and tea tastings in the Cameron Highlands and Surat Thani Monkey Training College.


    Legends of the Peninsula (six nights) -- Bangkok/River Kwai/Trang (overnight)/Penang/Kuala Lumpur/Singapore. Highlights include the River Kwai Bridge, a sojourn at Trang that offers the chance to take part in a range of water sports, Dugong trekking and Thai cooking classes.


    Tales of Laos (three nights) -- Bangkok/Pimai/Khao Yai/Vientiane/Bangkok. E&O passengers are among the few to travel this route. Highlights include stopping at Phimai to explore the Angkor-style Khmer temples, the vineyards of the Khao Yai hills and sampling the "new" latitude wines cultivated there. Prices start at $3,900. For more information, visit www.orient-express.com/web/eoe/chronicles_asia.jsp.

     



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  3. Amtrak, Concur to Provide Business Travelers with Rail Options

    Amtrak and Concur, a leading provider of on-demand Employee Spend Management services, announced that Concur Travel & Expense and Concur Cliqbook Travel clients now have direct access to book travel on any Amtrak route nationwide. Concur clients may now view, hold, reserve and purchase Amtrak rail travel -- and compare rail and air travel options -- all on one screen.


    Amtrak and Concur, a leading provider of on-demand Employee Spend Management services, announced that Concur Travel & Expense and Concur Cliqbook Travel clients now have direct access to book travel on any Amtrak route nationwide. Concur clients may now view, hold, reserve and purchase Amtrak rail travel -- and compare rail and air travel options -- all on one screen.


    With this new direct connection to Amtrak’s reservations system, Concur clients will be able to add rail to their travel plans in the same way they already book air, car, or hotel reservations, and enjoy all of these additional benefits: Expanded route map to include all key Amtrak business travel corridors; mixed rail and air display to allow for comparison of travel options; direct passage of Amtrak Guest Rewards number into the Concur system; full support for Amtrak special rates; ability to book multi-segment trips; ability to cancel or put rail trips on hold; payment and ticketing with no agency intervention; support of all passenger type codes.


    “The direct connection between Amtrak’s reservations system and the Concur Connect program will not only provide easier access for Amtrak passengers booking rail travel, it will also provide a side-by-side comparison of a client’s rail and air travel options,” said Craig White senior director of travel industry sales. “This comparison will show Concur clients that rail travel is a very attractive and viable option, particularly along Amtrak’s busy Northeast Corridor between Washington, DC, New York and Boston.”


    Through Concur Connect – the global program that connects suppliers from around the world and provides clients exclusive access to services otherwise unavailable though traditional travel programs – Amtrak joins a growing list of travel suppliers that feed complete electronic folio data in the form of e-receipts directly into Concur Travel & Expense. For more information, visit www.concur.com  or www.amtrak.com.  

     



    read more >>>
  4. Dollar Thrifty Automotive Group Boosts Earnings Estimates

    Dollar Thrifty Automotive Group, Inc., provided an update on preliminary estimates for second-quarter results and its outlook for the full year of 2010. The company announced that it expects second-quarter Corporate Adjusted EBITDA to be within a range of $70 million to $75 million, up significantly from $20.9 million in the comparable quarter of 2009. The company further noted that it recorded approximately $5 million of expenses related to the proposed Hertz transaction during the quarter. Excluding these transaction costs, Corporate Adjusted EBITDA for the second quarter is projected to be within a range of $75 million to $80 million.


    Eurostar, the international high-speed passenger train operator which links the U.K. with the continent, will host a train ceremony naming at St. Pancras International by HRH The Duke of Kent on the morning of the 94th anniversary of the Battle of Fromelles. The Eurostar train will be named “Remembering Fromelles” and will carry guests to Lille in Northern France which is only a short distance away from the village of Fromelles where the first war cemetery in 50 years will be officially dedicated by the Commonwealth War Grave Commission (CWGC). This event is the culmination of a significant collaboration between the CWGC, and the Australian and British governments, on whose behalf the CWGC has managed the Fromelles project.


    Eurostar will play a pivotal role in carrying over 400 guests, including many of the relatives of those who died during the Battle of Fromelles, to Lille to attend the event. In 1916, the Australian and British forces suffered over 7,000 casualties in little over 24 hours, including over 2,000 killed. Buried by the Germans in several mass graves, the 250 soldiers who were carefully exhumed in 2009 have all now been reburied in individual graves at Fromelles (Pheasant Wood) Military Cemetery, with military honors. Using DNA testing and by gathering other pieces of evidence, 96 Australian soldiers have been successfully identified by name, with a further 109 unnamed Australian soldiers, three unnamed British soldiers and 42 soldiers who remain known unto God. Eurostar takes one hour 20 minutes from London to Lille, a journey that would have taken days for allied troops in both world wars. For more information, visit www.cwgc.org or www.eurostar.co.uk.
     

    Hertz Global Holdings, Inc. has acquired 1st Call Studio Equipment from RoadSafe Holdings. 1st Call is a leading equipment rental company to the film and television industry. Headquartered in Sylmar, Calif., the company services clients throughout the U.S. and has offices in Hollywood, on the Universal Studios Hollywood Lot, Albuquerque Studios Lot, and in Louisiana. Hertz is looking for opportunities to grow its Entertainment Services business, said Mark P. Frissora, chairman and chief executive officer of Hertz. 1st Call Studio Equipment rents booms, scissor lifts, fork lifts, light towers, gators and other equipment to production companies working on feature films, episodic television shows, reality shows, commercials and music videos. For more information, visit www.hertz.com.

    Dollar Thrifty Automotive Group, Inc., provided an update on preliminary estimates for second-quarter results and its outlook for the full year of 2010. The company announced that it expects second-quarter Corporate Adjusted EBITDA to be within a range of $70 million to $75 million, up significantly from $20.9 million in the comparable quarter of 2009. The company further noted that it recorded approximately $5 million of expenses related to the proposed Hertz transaction during the quarter. Excluding these transaction costs, Corporate Adjusted EBITDA for the second quarter is projected to be within a range of $75 million to $80 million.


    The company noted that it is lowering its guidance for vehicle rental revenue for the full year of 2010 to an increase of 1 to 2 percent compared to 2009, down from its prior guidance of 2 to 4 percent. In addition, the company lowered its expected fleet cost target from $275 per unit per month to a range of $245 to $255 per month.


    Based on the company"s estimated results through the second quarter and its outlook for revenue and fleet costs for the remainder of 2010, the company expects Corporate Adjusted EBITDA, excluding expenses related to the Hertz transaction, to be within a range of $200 million to $220 million for the full year of 2010. The company"s previous guidance range for 2010 was $170 million to $190 million, and the company"s 2009 Corporate Adjusted EBITDA was $99.4 million.


    The company also provided an updated outlook for fleet cost per unit per month for 2011, lowering its outlook for fleet cost to a range of $300 to $310 per month, compared to its previous guidance of $325 per month. The company noted that the ongoing positive effects of changes made in its operations and fleet management, combined with solid macroeconomic factors in the used car market, are expected to impact fleet costs in 2011 and beyond. For more information, visit www.dtag.com,  www.thrifty.com  or www.dollar.com.

     



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  5. Amtrak Launches "Create Our Contest Contest" on Facebook

    Amtrak launched a “Create Our Contest Contest,” a summer-long campaign that invites the general public to develop what will become Amtrak’s first user-generated contest. The goal of the campaign is to actively engage Amtrak’s most loyal customers through social networking. To enter the contest users, should log on to www.Facebook.com/Amtrak  and submit their ideas in essay or video form by Aug. 2. All approved entries will be uploaded to Amtrak’s Facebook fan page, where users can vote for their favorite contest idea. Entries that receive the top 25 percent of all votes will be reviewed by a panel of judges to determine the winner. The grand prize -- which will be awarded in September -- is a roundtrip for four to anywhere Amtrak travels.


    Amtrak and Concur, a leading provider of on-demand Employee Spend Management services, announced that Concur Travel & Expense and Concur Cliqbook Travel clients now have direct access to book travel on any Amtrak route nationwide. Concur clients may now view, hold, reserve and purchase Amtrak rail travel -- and compare rail and air travel options -- all on one screen.


    With this new direct connection to Amtrak’s reservations system, Concur clients will be able to add rail to their travel plans in the same way they already book air, car, or hotel reservations, and enjoy all of these additional benefits: Expanded route map to include all key Amtrak business travel corridors; mixed rail and air display to allow for comparison of travel options; direct passage of Amtrak Guest Rewards number into the Concur system; full support for Amtrak special rates; ability to book multi-segment trips; ability to cancel or put rail trips on hold; payment and ticketing with no agency intervention; support of all passenger type codes.


    “The direct connection between Amtrak’s reservations system and the Concur Connect program will not only provide easier access for Amtrak passengers booking rail travel, it will also provide a side-by-side comparison of a client’s rail and air travel options,” said Craig White senior director of travel industry sales. “This comparison will show Concur clients that rail travel is a very attractive and viable option, particularly along Amtrak’s busy Northeast Corridor between Washington, DC, New York and Boston.”


    Through Concur Connect – the global program that connects suppliers from around the world and provides clients exclusive access to services otherwise unavailable though traditional travel programs – Amtrak joins a growing list of travel suppliers that feed complete electronic folio data in the form of e-receipts directly into Concur Travel & Expense. For more information, visit www.concur.com  or www.amtrak.com.  

     

    Alamos Rent A Car and National Car Rental have re-launched their joint Cash-In Club loyalty rewards program for travel agents with an updated website, flexible rewards and an updated promotion. Since 1995, Alamo and National have partnered with U.S. travel agents who book rental car as Cash-In Club members. The revamp includes new tools and better incentives, according to Ron Cerko, vice president of travel industry relations for Alamo and National.


    The Cash-In Club promotion is being offered to all U.S.-resident travel agents who book a qualified reservation through October 2010. Program members will be automatically entered to win every time they reserve a car with Alamo or National. The grand prize winner will receive 15,000 points. The second place winner will receive 10,000 points and the third place winner receives 5,000 points. Winners will be announced in November 2010.


    Cash-In Club was originally created to offer travel agents the chance to receive competitive rates and quality rental vehicles for their clients and to reward them for their long-term business. The enhanced program agents to also incorporate award points into American Express-branded reward cards. For more information, visit www.cashinclub.travel or www.rewards.cashinclub.travel.
     

    Rail Europe Inc., Switzerland Tourism and the Swiss Travel System are teaming up this summer to offer the Swiss Bliss Deal, inviting all travelers to take advantage of the outdoors and explore Switzerland. The Swiss Pass is an inexpensive way to experience the country by allowing unlimited travel on all trains, boats and postal buses which make up the Swiss Travel System. It is particularly convenient for families, as kids up to 16 years of age always ride for free when accompanied by a parent and all Swiss Pass holders get free access to more than 400 museums in Switzerland. Prices on the four-day Swiss Pass start at $361 in first class and $241 in second class. The Swiss Bliss Deal is available for purchase from July 15 through July 21. Travel must take place from Aug. 1 through Nov. 30.


    The Swiss Bliss Deal includes limited-time offers on special value-added components with a purchase of the Swiss Pass. Passengers who purchase the Swiss Pass through Rail Europe will also receive roundtrip tickets for up to 50 percent off the regularly reduced Swiss Pass holder one-way fare on the mountain railways or cable cars that carry passengers to the Swiss mountain peaks of Titlis, Pilatus, Schilthorn, Stanserhorn and Rocher de Naye; one free fast baggage voucher, which is valid for the transfer of one bag per person one way between most train stations in Switzerland (certain restrictions apply); 20 percent discount from Victorinox on luggage at the Victorinox/Swiss Army stores in Geneva or Basel, Switzerland and New York, N.Y., valid on all purchases made from July 22 through Nov. 30; and a detailed map of Switzerland created by National Geographic Traveler.


    Switzerland Tourism recently named 2010 an official hiking year and outlined 32 trails for travelers to discover some of the world’s finest backdrops. In an effort to promote an active lifestyle, many of the highlighted routes are geared toward families and beginner level hikers. However, the country also offers numerous rigorous trails for more experienced outdoor enthusiasts. For more information, call 888-382-7245 or visit www.agent.raileurope.com.

     

    Amtrak launched a “Create Our Contest Contest,” a summer-long campaign that invites the general public to develop what will become Amtrak’s first user-generated contest. The goal of the campaign is to actively engage Amtrak’s most loyal customers through social networking. To enter the contest users, should log on to www.Facebook.com/Amtrak  and submit their ideas in essay or video form by Aug. 2. All approved entries will be uploaded to Amtrak’s Facebook fan page, where users can vote for their favorite contest idea. Entries that receive the top 25 percent of all votes will be reviewed by a panel of judges to determine the winner. The grand prize -- which will be awarded in September -- is a roundtrip for four to anywhere Amtrak travels.


    “Amtrak’s customers are enthusiastic, highly creative people who showcase their love for train travel in many different ways,” said David Lim, Amtrak’s chief marketing officer. “We want to harness this creativity and engage our fans by asking them to develop their dream contest.” Amtrak partnered with their advertising agency Arnold Worldwide’s D.C. office on the concept and all creative campaign elements for the contest. The contest will be promoted by paid advertisements on Facebook, and social media outreach on Twitter and Facebook, among other efforts. For a complete list of contest rules and regulations, visit www.apps.facebook.com/amtrakcontest/rules.  

     



    read more >>>
  6. Hertz Purchases 1st Call Studio Equipment Rental Firm

    Hertz Global Holdings, Inc. has acquired 1st Call Studio Equipment from RoadSafe Holdings. 1st Call is a leading equipment rental company to the film and television industry. Headquartered in Sylmar, Calif., the company services clients throughout the U.S. and has offices in Hollywood, on the Universal Studios Hollywood Lot, Albuquerque Studios Lot, and in Louisiana. Hertz is looking for opportunities to grow its Entertainment Services business, said Mark P. Frissora, chairman and chief executive officer of Hertz. 1st Call Studio Equipment rents booms, scissor lifts, fork lifts, light towers, gators and other equipment to production companies working on feature films, episodic television shows, reality shows, commercials and music videos. For more information, visit www.hertz.com.


    Eurostar, the international high-speed passenger train operator which links the U.K. with the continent, will host a train ceremony naming at St. Pancras International by HRH The Duke of Kent on the morning of the 94th anniversary of the Battle of Fromelles. The Eurostar train will be named “Remembering Fromelles” and will carry guests to Lille in Northern France which is only a short distance away from the village of Fromelles where the first war cemetery in 50 years will be officially dedicated by the Commonwealth War Grave Commission (CWGC). This event is the culmination of a significant collaboration between the CWGC, and the Australian and British governments, on whose behalf the CWGC has managed the Fromelles project.


    Eurostar will play a pivotal role in carrying over 400 guests, including many of the relatives of those who died during the Battle of Fromelles, to Lille to attend the event. In 1916, the Australian and British forces suffered over 7,000 casualties in little over 24 hours, including over 2,000 killed. Buried by the Germans in several mass graves, the 250 soldiers who were carefully exhumed in 2009 have all now been reburied in individual graves at Fromelles (Pheasant Wood) Military Cemetery, with military honors. Using DNA testing and by gathering other pieces of evidence, 96 Australian soldiers have been successfully identified by name, with a further 109 unnamed Australian soldiers, three unnamed British soldiers and 42 soldiers who remain known unto God. Eurostar takes one hour 20 minutes from London to Lille, a journey that would have taken days for allied troops in both world wars. For more information, visit www.cwgc.org or www.eurostar.co.uk.
     

    Hertz Global Holdings, Inc. has acquired 1st Call Studio Equipment from RoadSafe Holdings. 1st Call is a leading equipment rental company to the film and television industry. Headquartered in Sylmar, Calif., the company services clients throughout the U.S. and has offices in Hollywood, on the Universal Studios Hollywood Lot, Albuquerque Studios Lot, and in Louisiana. Hertz is looking for opportunities to grow its Entertainment Services business, said Mark P. Frissora, chairman and chief executive officer of Hertz. 1st Call Studio Equipment rents booms, scissor lifts, fork lifts, light towers, gators and other equipment to production companies working on feature films, episodic television shows, reality shows, commercials and music videos. For more information, visit www.hertz.com.



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  7. Alamo, National Re-Launch Cash-In Club for Travel Agents

    Alamos Rent A Car and National Car Rental have re-launched their joint Cash-In Club loyalty rewards program for travel agents with an updated website, flexible rewards and an updated promotion. Since 1995, Alamo and National have partnered with U.S. travel agents who book rental car as Cash-In Club members. The revamp includes new tools and better incentives, according to Ron Cerko, vice president of travel industry relations for Alamo and National.


    Amtrak and Concur, a leading provider of on-demand Employee Spend Management services, announced that Concur Travel & Expense and Concur Cliqbook Travel clients now have direct access to book travel on any Amtrak route nationwide. Concur clients may now view, hold, reserve and purchase Amtrak rail travel -- and compare rail and air travel options -- all on one screen.


    With this new direct connection to Amtrak’s reservations system, Concur clients will be able to add rail to their travel plans in the same way they already book air, car, or hotel reservations, and enjoy all of these additional benefits: Expanded route map to include all key Amtrak business travel corridors; mixed rail and air display to allow for comparison of travel options; direct passage of Amtrak Guest Rewards number into the Concur system; full support for Amtrak special rates; ability to book multi-segment trips; ability to cancel or put rail trips on hold; payment and ticketing with no agency intervention; support of all passenger type codes.


    “The direct connection between Amtrak’s reservations system and the Concur Connect program will not only provide easier access for Amtrak passengers booking rail travel, it will also provide a side-by-side comparison of a client’s rail and air travel options,” said Craig White senior director of travel industry sales. “This comparison will show Concur clients that rail travel is a very attractive and viable option, particularly along Amtrak’s busy Northeast Corridor between Washington, DC, New York and Boston.”


    Through Concur Connect – the global program that connects suppliers from around the world and provides clients exclusive access to services otherwise unavailable though traditional travel programs – Amtrak joins a growing list of travel suppliers that feed complete electronic folio data in the form of e-receipts directly into Concur Travel & Expense. For more information, visit www.concur.com  or www.amtrak.com.  

     

    Alamos Rent A Car and National Car Rental have re-launched their joint Cash-In Club loyalty rewards program for travel agents with an updated website, flexible rewards and an updated promotion. Since 1995, Alamo and National have partnered with U.S. travel agents who book rental car as Cash-In Club members. The revamp includes new tools and better incentives, according to Ron Cerko, vice president of travel industry relations for Alamo and National.


    The Cash-In Club promotion is being offered to all U.S.-resident travel agents who book a qualified reservation through October 2010. Program members will be automatically entered to win every time they reserve a car with Alamo or National. The grand prize winner will receive 15,000 points. The second place winner will receive 10,000 points and the third place winner receives 5,000 points. Winners will be announced in November 2010.


    Cash-In Club was originally created to offer travel agents the chance to receive competitive rates and quality rental vehicles for their clients and to reward them for their long-term business. The enhanced program agents to also incorporate award points into American Express-branded reward cards. For more information, visit www.cashinclub.travel or www.rewards.cashinclub.travel.
     



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  8. Eurostar to Rename Train in Honor of Fallen WW I Veterans

    Eurostar, the international high-speed passenger train operator which links the U.K. with the continent, will host a train ceremony naming at St. Pancras International by HRH The Duke of Kent on the morning of the 94th anniversary of the Battle of Fromelles. The Eurostar train will be named “Remembering Fromelles” and will carry guests to Lille in Northern France which is only a short distance away from the village of Fromelles where the first war cemetery in 50 years will be officially dedicated by the Commonwealth War Grave Commission (CWGC). This event is the culmination of a significant collaboration between the CWGC, and the Australian and British governments, on whose behalf the CWGC has managed the Fromelles project.


    Eurostar, the international high-speed passenger train operator which links the U.K. with the continent, will host a train ceremony naming at St. Pancras International by HRH The Duke of Kent on the morning of the 94th anniversary of the Battle of Fromelles. The Eurostar train will be named “Remembering Fromelles” and will carry guests to Lille in Northern France which is only a short distance away from the village of Fromelles where the first war cemetery in 50 years will be officially dedicated by the Commonwealth War Grave Commission (CWGC). This event is the culmination of a significant collaboration between the CWGC, and the Australian and British governments, on whose behalf the CWGC has managed the Fromelles project.


    Eurostar will play a pivotal role in carrying over 400 guests, including many of the relatives of those who died during the Battle of Fromelles, to Lille to attend the event. In 1916, the Australian and British forces suffered over 7,000 casualties in little over 24 hours, including over 2,000 killed. Buried by the Germans in several mass graves, the 250 soldiers who were carefully exhumed in 2009 have all now been reburied in individual graves at Fromelles (Pheasant Wood) Military Cemetery, with military honors. Using DNA testing and by gathering other pieces of evidence, 96 Australian soldiers have been successfully identified by name, with a further 109 unnamed Australian soldiers, three unnamed British soldiers and 42 soldiers who remain known unto God. Eurostar takes one hour 20 minutes from London to Lille, a journey that would have taken days for allied troops in both world wars. For more information, visit www.cwgc.org or www.eurostar.co.uk.
     



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Fresh Water Dolphin

Independence Beach

Independence Beach gets its name from the deserted hulk of the 7 -storey Independence Hotel at the north end. Locals call this beach 'otel bram-pil chann (hotel 7-stories). It is labeled '7-Chann Beach' on the in-town street sign. Independence is more than a kilometer long, but the sandy area is much narrower making the beach best when the tide is low. The beach is wider and more tourists toward the northwest end near a small fresh water lake (which is the source of the town's fresh water and is rumored to contain crocodiles). At the other end is the beach's only hotel, Sea Breeze. Grass umbrellas and drink vendors only hotel, Sea Breeze. Grass umbrellas and drink vendors now line the beach from end to end but it is still much less frequented than other beaches. The road up to the old Independence Hotel is often frequented by a small troop of Rhesus monkeys but is currently closed while the hotel is undergoing renovation.

 


Deum Chhrey Beach

Deum Chhrey Beach is located in fornt of the City Hall. Few tourists swim here because there is a big restaurant nearby. It is popular with tourists who like walk along the beach, however, because there is a picturesque park filled with statues, making site popular with photographers.

 

 

 


 

Kbal Chhay Waterfall

Kbal Chhay waterfall is located in Khan Prey Nup, about 16 kilometers north of the downtown Sihanoukville. To reach the site from Sihanoukville, take National Road 4 toward Phnom Penh. About 7 kilometers out side of town, there is a sign announcing the site. Turn left and go 9 kilometers along a trail. The water at Kbal Chhay comes from many sources along the mountain range, although only three of these sources are visible. The waterfall, which is 14 meters high, is at the point where those three sources joint.

Kbal Chhay was discovered in 1960. Three years later, it was developed into a reservoir to supply clean water to the city of Sihanoukville. The reservoir construction, however, was interrupted due to civil war, and the site became a hide-out for the Khmer Rouge. In 1997, Kbal Chhay was marked for development, and a year later Kok An Company was awarded a contract to construct a road and develop the site for tourism.

 


Koh Pors

Koh Pors is an island about 1 kilometer from Lomhe Kay beach, off the coast of Sihanoukville. The beach is flat and very quiet. It is attrachs few visitors, because it is undeveloped. Those tourists who do visit the island travel in groups and bring their own food.


 

Ochheuteal Beach

Ochheuteal Beach, known as UNTAC Beach in the early 1990s and it is now the most popular in Sihanoukville, offering the full spectrum of beach venues from upscale hotels and dining to laid-back budget beach bars and bungalows.

Ochheuteal is long, sandy and narrow, with 'Serendipity Beach' at the northern end, a golf-course development at the southern end, and a cluster of mid-range hotels and restaurants near the MP base in the middle. Grass umbrellas, rentable beach chairs and little drink huts line the beach from one end to the other.

It offers several nice hotels including the Seaside and Crystal, the mid-range Holiday, as well as some of Sihanoukville's better seafood restaurants, (Sea Dragon, Susaday, Sunshine and Les Feuilles), within walking distance of the hotels. Further south along the beach in front of the golf course develop-ment, a number of budget traveler/backpacker oriented bar/restaurant/beach hangouts have sprung up offering chairs, umbrellas, drinks and a chill-out atmosphere. At Ochheuteal's extreme northern end, Serendipity Beach' is the only beach in Sihanouk-ville to offer bungalows and guesthouse rooms right on the sand. Over the past two years Serendipity's popularity has grown exponentially, as have the number of bungalows, hotels, and restaurants. The beach now offers several mid-range and budget places including Coasters' well-known bungalows, Uncle Bob's 24-hour restaurant and budget rooms, and The Beach’s mid-range rooms. There are also places popping up on the hill just above the Serendipity such as Diamond Guesthouse and closer to the traffic circle, Sanctuary Bar and Guesthouse. To get to Serendipity Beach follow Ekareach Street straight through the Golden Lion Traffic Circle and UP and over the hill.

 


Phnom Leu

Phnom Leu is a nature and cultural site. There is a pagoda on the mountaintop, which offer visitors a panoramic view of the beaches and Sihanoukville international port. Most visitors are local people who visit the site during national festivals.

 


Ream Beach

Though not untouristed, the Ream Beaches see far fewer visitors than Sihanouk ville beaches. Located in the Ream National Park. Take Route 4 to the Airport road 18km north of town. Turn right, go 9km to the ocean. The beach to the right is long and narrow and frequented more by fishermen than tourists. Behind the beach is a mangrove swamp, which attracts a wide variety of tropical birds. The beaches to the left nearer the Naval Base now have a few vendors selling drinks and renting tubes. There is a small $5 per night guesthouse run by the National Park. Check at the park HQ opposite the entrance to the airport.


Ream National Park

Ream National Park, It is always called Preah Sihanouk National Park, the park has become known as “Ream” because it stays in the Ream commune. It was built in 1993, inaugurated in March 1995, and encompasses 21,000 ' hectares with sandy beaches, mangrove forests, the Prek Tuk Sap estuary, off-shore coral reefs and two islands (Koh Thmei and Koh Ses). Visitors may see macaques, sun bear, dolphins, over 155 species of birds, and other animals. Park facilities are not fully developed so it is best to arrange a guided tour such as a jungle walk or a boat trip at the Park Office (located 18 km north of Sihanoukville, 500m off Route 4 on Airport Road, opposite the entrance to the airport). The office is open 7 days per week 7 AM to 5PM and there are usually several guides of varying linguistic skill levels on hand. Park Office phone: 012-875096. Several guesthouses in Sihanoukville can arrange transportation and tours of the park.


Sokha or Serendipity Beach

Sokha Beach adjoins O'Cheuteal Beach. It is also long though the water is deeper than here. The beach was once more crowded than O'Cheuteal Beach, because Cambodians prefer it to the other beaches. However, Oknha Sok Kung's Sokha Hotel Company recently took over operations at the beach. The company is building up the area in hope of attracting more tourists to Sihanoukville.


Vistory Beach or Lomhe Kay

The beach is located in front of Koh Pors (Snake Island). It offers a number of services, including comfortable restrooms, fresh water and good transportation service to Koh Pors. Thus, many local and international visitors go to this beach. There are many well organized kiosks along the beach, the waves are not big, and invironment is clean.

 


Wat Krom

Wat Krom is located in Road Sanntipheap, Sangkat 3, Khan Miatpheap, about 3 kilometers (5mn) from Provincial Town.

 


Wat Leu

Wat Leu is located in Road No.24, Sangkat 1, Khan Miatpheap, about 6 kilometes (10mn) from Provincial Town.


 



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