The Ultimate Travel Companion, WorldMate for iPad, Launches Today

SAN FRANCISCO, May 2, 2012  -- WorldMate, the trip organizer and travel planning app with over 9 million users, announced today the launch of its WorldMate App for iPad. The app was built from the ground up to take full advantage of the Retina display and Multi-Touch capabilities of the new iPad.

The WorldMate App for iPad stores all of the trip details for full access even when there is no Internet connection. The itinerary is carefully laid out to reveal an at-a-glance summary as well as the full flight, hotel, car rental, train, public transportation, and meeting details. These trip items are presented in a full screen map with point-to-point navigation. The app also customizes searches for points of interest, weather forecasts, and social network connections based on the details contained within the itinerary.

When there is a flight delay or cancellation, the alert provides suggested alternatives to keep the traveler on schedule. The various features are thoughtfully intertwined with each other and deeply integrated with the Calendar app in iOS allowing users to synchronize trip details across their iPad, iPhone and Mac.


Jean Tripier, WorldMate CEO, explains, "Our new WorldMate App for iPad features both itinerary management and a wide array of travel tools to ensure travelers have the right information at hand to make their trips smoother, more enjoyable and less stressful."

The WorldMate App for iPad's unmatched set of pre-trip and on-the-road services include:

• Itinerary Management - Simply forward confirmation emails from over 1300 travel providers and WorldMate will automatically build the trip itinerary.
• Calendar Sync - Synchronize trip details across iPad, iPhone and Mac.
• Flight Alerts - Get real-time alerts for gate changes, delays and cancellations.
• Flight Status - Check the status for over 99% of U.S. flights and 86% worldwide.
• Flight Schedules - Lookup schedules for over 1000 airlines.
• Alternative Flights - Search for alternatives to scheduled flights.
• Mapping - Plot every item in the itinerary for orientation and point-to-point navigation.
• Proximity Alerts - See which LinkedIn contacts are nearby.
• Post to Facebook - One-click add to Facebook.
• Share Itinerary - Share upcoming trips with friends, family and colleagues.
• Local Search - Find the best restaurants, nightlife, and shopping near the user's current location, hotel, airport, or meeting.
• Currency Converter - Calculate for over 160 currencies with auto-updated exchange rates.
• Weather - Access 5 day forecasts for itinerary cities and 68,000 others.
• Tip Calculator - Get country-by-country tip recommendations and calculations for restaurants and taxis.

The WorldMate App is available for free from the App Store on iPad or at www.iTunes.com/AppStore. Users can upgrade to a premium 'Gold' version, which includes several additional features, for the introductory price of $2.99.

About WorldMate, Inc.
WorldMate has served over 9 million business and leisure travelers by managing their itineraries and then guiding them through every aspect of their trips. This includes flight alerts, hotel & car rental booking, weather forecasts, maps, currency converters and much more. WorldMate, Inc. is privately held and based in California.

For more information visit www.worldmate.com.


SOURCE WorldMate, Inc.

Best Travel Website of 2012 to be Named by Web Marketing Association in 16th Annual WebAward Competition

HARTFORD, Conn., April 18, 2012 -- The Web Marketing Association announces the call for entries for its 16th annual international WebAward Competition for Web site development at www.webaward.org. The WebAwards is the standards-defining competition that sets benchmarks for 96 industries, including travel, airline and hotel & lodging websites, based on the seven criteria of a successful web site. The deadline for the best travel web sites to enter to be judged is May 31, 2012.

Websites are judged on seven criteria including design, innovation, content, technology, interactivity, copy writing and ease of use. Each WebAward entry in the Travel category is judged against other travel entries and then against an overall standard of excellence.

"The travel industry is very competitive when it comes to Web development and companies can benefit from the independent evaluation of their online efforts," said William Rice, President of the Web Marketing Association. "Travel web sites have been doing great in terms of creating dynamic portals to keep up with the shift in the industry that removed agents as the source of travel information. Judges have looked highly upon travel web site's use of design, copywriting and interactivity."

All travel entrants benefit from receiving valuable feedback in terms of their specific criteria scores compared against the average scores for their industry. They also may receive specific comments from the WebAward's professional judging panel on their Web site development efforts.

Winners of a WebAward in the travel categories will also receive:

• Handsome statue or certificate of achievement
• Increased visibility for their company
• Marketing opportunity to promote the company website to the media
• Links to your site from the highly ranked WebAward site to help SEO
• Admiration of peers, friends and co-workers

Each year, the Web Marketing Association names the Best of Industry for the various travel categories based on the score they receive from the WebAward judges.
Recent winners of the Best Travel Website include:

• 2011 – Civic Resource Group for Wyoming Travel and Tourism Web Portal and Online Management System
• 2010 - TravelChannel.com & Razorfish for The New TravelChannel.com
• 2009 - VisitSweden for VisitSweden
• 2008 - Teehan+Lax Inc for AirMiles Make Like Miles
• 2007 - Arnold Worldwide for Hungry Suitcase
• 2006 - Hospitality eBusiness Strategies for RIU Cancun Portal
• 2005 - Yellowstone Journal Corporation for YellowstonePark.com
• 2004 - Quicksilver Associates for Seabourn Cruise Line
• 2003 - Apollo Interactive for Excalibur Las Vegas Resort Hotel & Casino
• 2002 - Arnold Worldwide for Alaska

Recent winners of the Best Airline Website include:

• 2011 – Carlson Marketing for JetBlue – "TrueBlue Be True"
• 2010 - Lufthansa in partnership with Amadeus for Lufthansa Website
• 2009 - Blast Advanced Media for nature Air – Eco Friendly Costa Rica Airline
• 2008 - Atmosphere BBDO for Emirates.com
• 2007 - Cramer-Krasselt for AirTran Raceway
• 2006 - TM Interactive for American Airlines
• 2005 - TM Interactive for American Airlines
• 2004 - Cramer-Krasselt for AirTran Airways – E-Annual 2003
• 2003 – Agence Braque for Jetsgo
• 2002 – Air Jamaica for Air Jamaica

Recent winners of the Best Hotel & Lodging Website include:

• 2011 – Sabre Hospitality Solutions for The Shores Resort & Spa
• 2010 – TRAVELCLICK for Harbour Grand Kowloon Hotel
• 2009 – TravelCLICK for the Albert Hotel
• 2008 - E-site Marketing for Hotel Terra Jackson Hole
• 2007 - Cendyn for Stonewall Resort
• 2006 - T3 (The Think Tank) for ExperienceMarriott.com
• 2005 - Open World, LTD for WARWICK International Hotels
• 2004 - Interactive Sites for The New York Palace web site
• 2003 - Open World Limited for Le Meridien Hotels & Resorts
• 2002 - FreeRun Technologies for Simpson House Inn

The 2012 WebAwards are sponsored by the following leading organizations: BGT Partners, PR Newswire, Burst Media, MycroBurst, EContent Magazine, ExactTarget, ad:tech conferences, Internet World UK, SES Conferences, Webmaster Radio, and Website Magazine. The Web Marketing Association thanks these companies for their commitment to the entire online marketing community.

About the WebAwards
The Web Marketing Association was founded in 1997 to help define the standard of excellence for online marketing. Our internationally known award programs, such as WebAward Competition for Website Development, Internet Advertising Competition and the new MobileWebAwards, recognize the people and organizations responsible for developing the most effective online marketing programs on the Internet today. Entrants benefit from assessment of their marketing efforts by a professional judging panel and the marketing opportunities presented by being recognized as an award-winning web developer.

SOURCE Web Marketing Association

Introducing the Cosmos Guides to Greece - Don't Even Think About Leaving for Your Holiday Without Reading!

LONDON, April 18, 2012 -- The team at Cosmos Holidays are creating a series of articles on their blog exploring - in detail - the fantastic experiences available in Greece. As one of Cosmos' most popular destinations, Greece boasts all the ingredients for a perfect escape to the sun. And, with bargains galore on the Cosmos website, there has never been a better time to explore this ancient paradise. The Cosmos Guide to Greece is the perfect starting point for planning your dream holiday.

The first article in the series lifts the lid on the delightful culinary experiences holidays to Greece can offer. They've waded through their knowledge of Greek gastronomy to bring their followers their top tips, whether visitors are dining out or sourcing local produce to cook for themselves. Suggestions include lamb baked in a clay pot at The Blue Grotto in Gaios, Paxos, which is built in the style of the local caves, and the Chania Municipal Market in Crete, loved by self-catering visitors and tourists who want to experience living like a local.

Cosmos also have ideas for more adventurous epicureans, including the family-friendly organic farm and winery, Ikarian Winery in Piyi Evdilos. The winery offers wine tasting and cooking classes to pass on some of their family's 500 years of experience creating food and wine in this region.

After readers have had their fill of top Greek meals, from veal in lemon sauce to sea urchin soup, they can turn their attention to the second article in the series. This one explores both the nightlife and opportunities for daytime for indulgence on offer in Greece. The country has enough going on to satisfy everyone, whether you want to dance 'til dawn or while away the hours being pampered to perfection.

The Cosmos Guide to Greece recommends the laser show at Club 69 in Malia on Crete, the southernmost Greek island, and the volcanic soil of Santorini for some unique spa treatments. Lovers of watersports are advised to check out Ios, while those looking for a unique Mediterranean clubbing experience should stop off in Zante. Those looking for truly 5 star luxury should head to Kefalonia for some of the most sophisticated spas in Greece. All these fantastic options may just make you want to check the Greece Holidays offers by Cosmos and book your holidays for the years to come.

The articles provide details on the location of these unmissable experiences in relation to local airports and transport links, making it easy for holidaymakers to plan their trips. Cosmos also invites their followers to comment on their recommendations and provide tips of their own, so get over to the Cosmos Holiday Blog and get involved in the debate! The next article introduces prospective travellers to the best Swimming and Sightseeing on offer in Greece, exploring its crystal waters, ancient ruins and everything between. It's an absolute must-read before planning your dream vacation.

For further press information please contact Barbara Kurau on +44(0)20-8466-8199 or bkurau@cosmos.co.uk or Helen McNaught on +44(0)20-8695-4069 hmcnaught@cosmos.co.uk , or visit http://www.cosmos.co.uk.

SOURCE Cosmos Holidays

Celebrate HostelBookers' 8th Birthday. Win a Trip to 8 Cities of Your Choice!

LONDON, April 11, 2012 -- HostelBookers , the budget accommodation specialist, is 8 years old. To celebrate, one lucky customer will win a trip for two to 8 cities of their choice, plus GBP2,000 spending money.

The prize is 8 x 3-night stays in hostels and cheap hotels in any 8 cities in which HostelBookers has availability. The winner can choose to book consecutive nights away, or alternatively, plan a number of weekend breaks. To enter, participants need to answer a simple question about HostelBookers' Awards for Excellence 2012 and submit their email address to be in with a chance of winning.

The competition will run from 11th April 2012 to 8th of May 2012. The lucky winner will be drawn at random by the judges on the 9th May 2011. Accommodation stays must be booked by the 31st of December 2012 and must be completed no later than 31st May 2013.

David Smith, COO at HostelBookers, states: "This is another great opportunity for customers to enjoy free hostels and cheap hotels in 8 cities of their choice plus travel money. We are so proud of how far we have come in the last 8 years and our aim to be the number one budget accommodation provider in the world is soon going to be reached."

For more information about how to enter the competition and full terms and conditions please click here .

HostelBookers is the leading budget accommodation website in the travel industry not to apply a service charge and is, on average, 8.7% cheaper than its nearest competitor. It features over 20,000 hostels, cheap hotels and budget properties on its website in over 3,500 destinations across the world. Follow us on Twitter @PRHostelbookers.

SOURCE  HostelBookers

TripAdvisor Introduces Travel Advice from "Friend of a Friend"

The World's Largest Travel Site Expands Facebook Integration to Provide Dramatically More Personalized Travel Insight

NEWTON, Mass., April 11, 2012 -- TripAdvisor®, the world's largest travel site*, today launched its "Friend of a Friend" feature that highlights trusted reviews and opinions from friends of Facebook friends. Representing the next step in making travel planning more social for the TripAdvisor global community, travelers are now ten times more likely to see personalized travel advice on TripAdvisor.

"Travel advice from friends is incredibly useful, but your inner circle may not have all the answers on a particular hotel or destination you are researching," says Adam Medros, vice president of global product for TripAdvisor. "The Friend of a Friend feature increases the probability of an even greater personalized TripAdvisor experience by highlighting opinions from a larger network of travelers that know the people you trust."

Friendly Advice – And More of It

Every day, Facebook-connected people write one out of four reviews submitted on TripAdvisor. Each of these travelers has an average of 190 people in their friend network[1]. With access to friends of friends, the average network can soar to tens of thousands, making social travel planning exponentially more useful.

How It Works

When researching a hotel, restaurant, or attraction, people will see their friends' reviews first, followed by reviews of their friends' friends. They can use the TripAdvisor private message service to ask anyone in this network for further advice. As always, reviews from the greater TripAdvisor community will also be displayed below friends' reviews so travelers can continue to benefit from the wisdom of the crowds.

Travelers can adjust their privacy settings within their Account Settings on Facebook to limit what their Facebook friends can see on TripAdvisor. Travelers who do not want access to their friends' travel advice, or don't want their friends to see their own reviews, can opt out.

The "Friend of a Friend" feature is now available on TripAdvisor sites worldwide with the exception of China and Egypt. To experience Friend of a Friend, please log in to Facebook via www.tripadvisor.com.

About TripAdvisor

TripAdvisor^® is the world's largest travel site, enabling travelers to plan and have the perfect trip. TripAdvisor offers trusted advice from real travelers and a wide variety of travel choices and planning features with seamless links to booking tools. TripAdvisor-branded sites make up the largest travel community in the world, with more than 50 million unique monthly visitors*, and over 60 million reviews and opinions. The sites operate in 30 countries worldwide, including China under daodao.com. TripAdvisor also includes TripAdvisor for Business, a dedicated division that provides the tourism industry access to TripAdvisor's millions of monthly visitors.

TripAdvisor, Inc. (NASDAQ: TRIP) manages and operates websites under 19 other travel media brands, and together the sites attract more than 69 million unique monthly visitors**. TripAdvisor's travel media brands include www.airfarewatchdog.com, www.bookingbuddy.com, www.cruisecritic.com, www.everytrail.com, www.familyvacationcritic.com, www.flipkey.com, www.holidaylettings.co.uk, www.holidaywatchdog.com, www.independenttraveler.com, www.onetime.com, www.seatguru.com, www.sniqueaway.com, www.smartertravel.com, www.tingo.com, www.travel-library.com, www.travelpod.com, www.virtualtourist.com, www.whereivebeen.com, and www.kuxun.cn.

*Source: comScore Media Metrix for TripAdvisor Sites, Worldwide, January 2012

**Source: comScore Media Metrix for TripAdvisor Inc. and its subsidiaries, Worldwide, January 2012

©2012 TripAdvisor, Inc. All rights reserved.

Facebook^® is a registered trademark of Facebook Inc.

[1] Source: https://www.facebook.com/notes/facebook-data-team/anatomy-of-facebook/10150388519243859

SOURCE TripAdvisor

Celebrity Co-Founder Andy Samberg Unveils CanaryHop.com Viral Video

CanaryHop.com - A Modern Day Classifieds Bringing Local Activities and Travel Experiences to Life

LOS ANGELES, March 23, 2012 -- Andy Samberg, celebrity co-founder of the innovative travel website, CanaryHop.com, debuts his comedic thrill seeking viral video showcasing his worldwide adventures and travel experiences (http://www.canaryhop.com/andy-samberg-video/).

This hilarious video gives viewers a sneak peek of the vast range of potential experiences and activities that CanaryHop.com has to offer. CanaryHop.com is the newest international marketplace that connects travelers with locals in vacation destinations to plan activities, tours, lessons and experiences.

CanaryHop is like a modern day classifieds only its listings connect you to actual experiences. The site caters to two markets: Canaries – local individuals with expertise in an aspect of tourism who wants to market their services and host Hoppers – travelers looking to take part in tours, lessons and experiences with a local connoisseur. Whether Hoppers are visiting from a couple hours away or travelling from halfway around the world, they are sure to find some local flavor in their destination locations.

CanaryHop.com is the one-stop activity site for things to do around the world, whether you are exploring your own city or visiting somewhere for the first time! The process of planning an experience is as simple as typing in a destination and finding activities such as a personalized hiking tour in Vancouver, spending a day with a winemaker in New Zealand, paddle boarding down the coastline with a local Malibu surfer or taking a tuk tuk ride in downtown Bangkok. Other local activities can also be included such as food tours, sports instruction, cooking lessons, learning a foreign language, or ballroom dancing classes.

CanaryHop.com co-founder and Serial Entrepreneur, Damon Spiegel says, "CanaryHop.com is a fusion of culture, travel, and social networking. I am thrilled to be a part of such a forward thinking venture that allows us to make such a momentous impact on the next generation of booking travel."

Currently, CanaryHop.com is the only company that offers the opportunity to be your own travel agent. This new technology allows vacationers to find tours, travel destinations, activities and guides instantly. CanaryHop's user-friendly website boasts a database with thousands of activities uploaded daily, resulting in an up-to-date online search engine. The website adds 300 activities a week in over 350 cities worldwide including London, New York, Los Angeles, Rome, Chicago, San Francisco and Hong Kong.

Co-founder Brad Finefrock explains, "Our goal is to fill a fundamental need for both travelers and locals who are seeking exciting activities in the city they live or somewhere they are traveling to."

About CanaryHop.com
Exploring the world one hop at a time, CanaryHop.com hosts a marketplace for tours, lessons, and travel experiences. The website allows hoppers to discover and explore an endless option of adventure and guarantees an authentic user-based travel experience. This innovative travel website is the first of its kind and a groundbreaking opportunity for users everywhere. For more information on CanaryHop.com visit www.canaryhop.com .

SOURCE CanaryHop.com

Holland America Line Makes Summer Cruising in Alaska And Europe an Affordable Family Vacation

Limited-time savings include free upgrades, kids sail free and air credits

SEATTLE, March 14, 2012 -- Holland America Line is making an Alaska CruiseTour or European cruise a more affordable vacation option this summer with limited-time savings and special offers.

Guests who book select 2012 Alaska CruiseTours or European itineraries by March 31, 2012, are eligible to receive up to a $500 air credit per stateroom or a shipboard credit of up to $200 per suite, as well as complimentary stateroom upgrades from an inside stateroom to an oceanview or from an oceanview stateroom to a verandah. Families looking to take a summer vacation can take advantage of an exclusive offer that lets kids between the ages of two and 17 cruise free on select Europe itineraries when sailing as a third or fourth guest in a stateroom.

"Savvy travelers know that cruising is an incredible value when it comes to vacation options," said Richard Meadows, executive vice president, marketing, sales and guest programs for Holland America Line. "But when you add these extra incentives it makes it possible for more guests and families on summer holiday to enjoy an unforgettable cruise experience."

For the summer Europe season, seven Holland America Line ships sail 44 unique itineraries that span from the northern tip of Norway to the Black Sea and eastern and western Mediterranean. Five new maiden ports of call and four new itineraries make their debut, and guests can enjoy overnight visits in 17 cities, including Hamburg, Germany; Istanbul, Turkey; St. Petersburg, Russia; Stockholm, Sweden; Dublin, Ireland; Amsterdam, Netherlands; Venice, Italy; and Bordeaux, France.

Families with less time who are looking for a cultural and scenic adventure can opt for a seven-day sailing to the fjords of Norway or a Mediterranean adventure. Roundtrip cruises sail from Dover (London), England; Barcelona, Spain; Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy; and Rotterdam and Amsterdam, Netherlands. Additional Holland America Line Europe itineraries enable guests to be among the few to cross the Arctic Circle, transit Germany's Kiel Canal, explore the ancient pyramids of Giza, and take a dip in the famous "Blue Lagoon," Iceland's unique geothermal seawater.

In summer 2012, the line will have seven ships sailing three different Alaska itineraries, as well as nine CruiseTours that combine a three-, four- or seven-day Inside Passage Holland America Line cruise with in-depth overland tours. Ranging in total length from 10 to 20 days. CruiseTours are designed to highlight the best of Alaska's wilderness, wildlife, native culture and history.

New for 2012, three new CruiseTours highlight Denali National Park with the only three-night Denali experience available; the line's first-ever round-trip Seattle, Wash., CruiseTour departures; and one-night Denali adventures. Six tours also feature Canada's Yukon Territory with its Klondike Gold Rush heritage and pristine national parks such as Kluane National Park and Tombstone Park.

Europe cruise fares begin at $699 per person, double occupancy. Alaska CruiseTours start at $999 per person.

For cruise brochures or for more information on the Alaska CruiseTours and European itineraries, consult a travel professional, call 1-877-SAIL-HAL (877-724-5425) or visit www.hollandamerica.com.

Find Holland America Line on Twitter, Facebook and the Holland America Blog. Access all social media outlets via the Online Communities quick link on the home page at www.hollandamerica.com.

About Holland America Line [a division of Carnival Corporation and plc (NYSE: CCL and CUK)]

Holland America Line's fleet of 15 ships offers more than 500 cruises to 350 ports in more than 100 countries, territories or dependencies. Two- to 110-day itineraries visit all seven continents and highlights include Antarctica, South America, Australia/New Zealand and Asia voyages; a Grand World Voyage; and popular sailings to ports in the Caribbean, Bermuda, Alaska, Mexico, Canada/New England, Europe and Panama Canal.

Fleetwide, the company features Signature of Excellence enhancements, a commitment totaling more than $525 million, that showcase the Culinary Arts Center presented by Food & Wine magazine — a state-of-the-art onboard show kitchen where more than 60 celebrated guest chefs and culinary experts provide cooking demonstrations and classes — Explorations Cafe powered by The New York Times, Digital Workshop powered by Windows, teens-only activity areas and all new stateroom amenities highlighted by flat-panel TVs and plush Euro-top Mariner's Dream Beds.

World's Leading Cruise Lines

Holland America Line is a proud member of World's Leading Cruise Lines. Our exclusive alliance also includes Carnival Cruise Lines, Cunard Line, Princess Cruises, Costa Cruises and Seabourn. Sharing a passion to please each guest and a commitment to quality and value, World's Leading Cruise Lines inspires people to discover their best vacation experience. Together, we offer a variety of exciting and enriching cruise vacations to the world's most desirable destinations. Visit us at www.worldsleadingcruiselines.com.

SOURCE Holland America Line

'I LOVE THIS CITY' Festival

SAN FRANCISCO AND SAN DIEGO MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND MAY 25th, MAY 26th and MAY 27th

OVER 40 ARTISTS. TWO CITIES. ONE MASSIVE PARTY.

ARTISTS TO INCLUDE TIESTO, SKRILLEX, LAIDBACK LUKE, STEVE AOKI, CHUCKIE, EXCISION, A-TRAK, R3HAB AND MANY MORE

THREE MAJOR HEADLINERS TO BE ANNOUNCED ON APRIL 23rd

INDIVIDUAL CITY LINEUPS, ADDITIONAL ARTISTS, TICKET AND ON SALE INFORMATION TO BE REVEALED ON FRIDAY, MARCH 16th

SAN FRANCISCO, March 12, 2012 -- If Memorial Day Weekend represents the unofficial start to summer, then this summer will be kicking off in California in a BIG way as I LOVE THIS CITY--a new Electronic Music festival event produced by Live Nation Entertainment--will make its debut as a two-day festival in both San Francisco and San Diego.

The I LOVE THIS CITY festival in San Francisco will take place Friday, May 25 and Saturday, May 26 at The Lot at AT&T Park set on the historic San Francisco waterfront. This event will be for patrons 18 and over.

The I LOVE THIS CITY festival in San Diego will take place Saturday, May 26 and Sunday, May 27 at PETCO Park. This event will be all ages.

Over 40 of electronic music's top artists are confirmed for I LOVE THIS CITY, including TIESTO and SKRILLEX as well as THREE SPECIAL GUEST HEADLINERS (to be announced 4/23), along with Laidback Luke, Steve Aoki, Chuckie, Excision, A-Trak, Crystal Method (DJ Set), R3HAB, Kill The Noise, Brodinski, 12^th Planet, MiMOSA, Felix Cartal, Dirtyphonics, Jaguar Skills, Adventure Club, Holy Ghost!, Holy F***, Cut Chemist, The M Machine, Helicopter Showdown, NiT GriT, Harvard Bass, Shit Robot, FareOh, Picture Plane, AC Slater, Oliver, Sofi and TJR on numerous stages.

Multiple special guests including THREE major headliners will be announced on April 23 ^rd. Visit www.ilovethiscityfestival.com to see if you can guess the special guests.

The San Diego event will be co-produced by Live Nation and LED Presents.

Individual city lineups, additional artists, ticket and on sale information will be posted on Friday, March 16 ^th at www.ilovethiscityfestival.com.

Stay tuned to www.ilovethiscityfestival.com for all the latest details on the festival including ticket prices, artist announcements, on sale information, contests and much more.

Keep up to date with I LOVE THIS CITY information on Facebook at http://www.Facebook.com/ilovethiscityfestival or on Twitter @ILTCFestival.

www.ilovethiscityfestival.com

About Live Nation Entertainment:
Live Nation Entertainment is the world's leading live entertainment and ecommerce company, comprised of four market leaders: Ticketmaster.com, Live Nation Concerts, Front Line Management Group and Live Nation Network. Ticketmaster.com is the global event ticketing leader and one of the world's top five ecommerce sites, with almost 27 million monthly unique visitors. Live Nation Concerts produces over 22,000 shows annually for more than 2,300 artists globally. Front Line is the world's top artist management company, representing over 250 artists. These businesses power Live Nation Network, the leading provider of entertainment marketing solutions, enabling nearly 800 advertisers to tap into the 200 million consumers Live Nation delivers annually through its live event and digital platforms. For additional information, visit www.livenation.com/investors .

SOURCE Live Nation

The Best Season Passes in the Ski Industry Just Got Better for the 2012-2013 Ski and Snowboard Season with the Addition of Kirkwood Mountain Resort at Lake Tahoe and More Perks for Pass Holders

Ski More than Five to Six Days and the Pass Pays for Itself

$49 Down Now Locks in The Best Deals for Winter Ski and Snowboard Vacations with the Epic Pass, Epic 7-Day, Epic Local Pass, Summit Value Pass, Tahoe Value Pass and New Tahoe Local Pass

BROOMFIELD, Colo., March 12, 2012 -- Vail Resorts, Inc. (NYSE: MTN) begins selling its popular ski and snowboard season passes today for the 2012-2013 winter season with the best prices in the industry. Ski or snowboard eight world-class resorts across three states and 24,980 acres, including Vail, Beaver Creek, Breckenridge, Keystone and Arapahoe Basin in Colorado and Heavenly, Northstar and Kirkwood in California/Nevada, more than five to six days in one season and all of the passes pay for themselves.

"With the addition of Kirkwood, this year's season pass lineup offers our guests an epic value with access to the best resorts in Colorado and Lake Tahoe," said Kirsten Lynch, chief marketing officer of Vail Resorts. "The Epic Pass, Epic Local Pass, Epic 7-Day, Summit Value Pass, Tahoe Local Pass and Tahoe Value Pass are designed to provide our guests the flexibility to choose the best pass option for them and the opportunity to experience eight truly iconic resorts next ski and snowboard season."

Following is a guide to help skiers and snowboarders choose the best season pass options for them, based on where they live and how much they plan to ski and ride. All passes are available for purchase at www.epicpass.com.

• The Epic Pass™, the best season pass deal in the ski industry offering unlimited, unrestricted skiing at Vail, Beaver Creek, Breckenridge, Keystone, Heavenly, Northstar, Kirkwood and Arapahoe Basin is available for $659. It pays for itself in less than six days.
• Epic 7-Day™ pays for itself in less than five days and is ideal for people who don't plan to ski more than seven days. The Epic 7-Day gives skiers and snowboarders a total of seven unrestricted days of skiing at Vail, Beaver Creek, Breckenridge, Keystone, Heavenly and Northstar, plus Arapahoe Basin anytime during the season for a price of $509.
• The Epic Local Pass™, for $509, pays for itself in less than five days and is perfect for locals who can navigate a few more restrictions. The Epic Local Pass offers unlimited and unrestricted skiing or riding at Breckenridge, Keystone and Arapahoe Basin with limited holiday restrictions at Heavenly and Northstar. It also includes a total of 10 days at Vail or Beaver Creek with holiday restrictions. $50 pass holder tickets are also available for purchase during blackout dates at Heavenly, Northstar and Kirkwood.
• Summit Value Pass™ pays for itself in less than four days and is a great option for people who only plan to ski Summit County. The Summit Value Pass is available for $419 and provides unlimited and unrestricted lift access to Keystone and Arapahoe Basin, as well as access to Breckenridge with limited holiday restrictions. Pass holders can purchase access to Breckenridge on restricted days for $50 per day.
• New for 2012-2013, the Tahoe Local Pass™ offers skiing and riding seven days a week to Heavenly, Northstar and Kirkwood resorts. It includes access on Saturdays at all three resorts with limited holidays restrictions. $50 pass holder tickets are also available for purchase during blackout dates at Heavenly, Northstar and Kirkwood all for $419. The Tahoe Local Pass pays for itself in just over four days.
• Tahoe Value Pass™, available for $379, pays for itself in less than four days and is ideal for people who plan to ski or ride seven days a week at Heavenly and six days a week at Northstar and Kirkwood. The Tahoe Value Pass has holiday restrictions to Heavenly, Northstar and Kirkwood with Saturdays excluded at Northstar and Kirkwood. Pass holders can purchase access to Heavenly, Northstar and Kirkwood Resorts on restricted days for $50 per day.

Skiers and riders should purchase their pass for next year now as these prices and spring benefits are only guaranteed through April 15, 2012. Vail Resorts is giving guests the option to lock in these prices with a $49 down payment now and the remainder of the balance due in mid-September 2012. All passes are available for purchase on www.epicpass.com starting today, March 12, 2012.

Season Pass Insurance Option: Protect Your Pass Investment in the Event of an Unexpected Circumstance
Vail Resorts encourages its guests to purchase pass insurance. All of its pass products are non-refundable. However, pass insurance covers pass holders in the event of unexpected circumstances including sickness, injury and job loss. Pass insurance is $20 for adults and $10 for children (ages 5-12). Coverage applies for all season passes and the Epic 7-Day valid for the 2012-2013 ski and snowboard season. For more information, visit www.epicpass.com.

New This Year: Season Pass Auto Renewal Program
The Vail Resorts Season Pass Auto Renewal Program is the most convenient way to automatically renew your season pass every year, while guaranteeing next season's lowest price. Valid on all Vail Resorts season passes excluding college and certain senior passes. The program automatically charges $49 down to a credit card each spring, with the remainder charged in the fall for the same product pass holders purchased when initially enrolling in the Auto Renewal Program. Customers must opt-in to the Auto Renewal program and they may cancel their enrollment at any time, prior to the following spring when the $49 down payment is charged. For more information, visit www.epicpass.com.

Special Pass holder Benefits
The Epic Season Pass, Epic 7-Day, Epic Local Pass, Summit Value Pass, Tahoe Local Pass and Tahoe Value Pass purchasers will receive exclusive offers and promotions on lodging, dining, ski rentals, equipment, ski school and special events for the 2012-2013 ski and snowboard season.

Summer 2012 Benefits
Skiers and snowboarders who purchase their passes this spring will also receive special benefits for this summer 2012, including access for sightseeing and gondola rides. All season pass products are non-transferable and non-refundable.

For more information about Vail Resorts season passes or to purchase a pass online, visit www.epicpass.com.

For more information, visit www.epicpass.com or visit www.snow.com to book your trip to visit this spring.

For broadcast-quality video footage and more photos, visit: http://public.me.com/vail.resorts. Please credit Vail Resorts for the photos and video.

About Vail Resorts
Vail Resorts, Inc., through its subsidiaries, is the leading mountain resort operator in the United States. The Company's subsidiaries operate the mountain resorts of Vail, Beaver Creek, Breckenridge and Keystone in Colorado, and Heavenly and Northstar in the Lake Tahoe area of California and Nevada, and the Grand Teton Lodge Company in Jackson Hole, Wyoming. The Company's subsidiary, RockResorts, a luxury resort hotel company, manages casually elegant properties. Vail Resorts Development Company is the real estate planning, development and construction subsidiary of Vail Resorts, Inc. Vail Resorts is a publicly held company traded on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE: MTN). The Vail Resorts company website is www.vailresorts.com and consumer website is www.snow.com.

SOURCE Vail Resorts, Inc.

Wondershare(TM) Wants You to Share Your Spring Break Memories and Enter to Win the New iPad(R)

Show Your Spring Break Highlights in Wondershare's "Spring Break" Promotion and be entered to Win the Grand Prize as well as be 1 of 20 Lucky Daily Recipients of Wondershare Video Editor 3 Software

SAN FRANCISCO, March 12, 2012 /PRNewswire-Asia/ -- Wondershare Software Co., Ltd., a world-class software developer of multimedia, business productivity, and system utility applications, today announced the kickoff of its "Spring Break" promotion and invites participants to share their Spring Break memories in exchange for a chance to win the new iPad, as well as be 1 of 20 daily winners to receive a free copy of Wondershare's recently released Video Editor 3 video editing and movie making software. Everyone gets to enjoy substantial discounts on quality Wondershare software titles during the Spring Break promotion.

To enter the Spring Break promotion, participants simply visit http://www.wondershare.com/topic/springbreak/ between March 12th and April 16th, 2012. Participants will be asked to identify their origin and Spring Break destination, upload 1 or 2 of their most memorable pictures, and write a sentence or two about their trip and tell us what made the trip great. The final winner will be decided according to the Facebook Likes they get for their highlights. The post that gets the most Likes will win the new iPad. The winner will be notified via email and have a choice of prize; a new iPad or $500.00 cash.

Additionally, each day of the Spring Break promotion, Wondershare will give away 20 copies of its acclaimed Video Editor 3 (Windows & Macintosh version all together) movie making software; which makes it a snap to assemble fun home movies from video clips, camcorder footage, digital pictures, and music files; complete with special effects, titles, and voice-over capability. Easily share finished movies via YouTube, Facebook, or create a DVD to watch on the big screen. To get one of the 20 free copies of Video Editor 3, participants must re-visit the Spring Break web page and enter to be one of the daily winners. First come, first serve; a $39.95 value!

About Wondershare

Wondershare Software Co., Ltd., an IDG invested company, is an innovative software developer dedicated to delivering the very best in software products and services to the worldwide consumer and business market segments. Headquartered in Shenzhen, China, Wondershare has branch offices in the United States, Germany and Japan. Wondershare has been named to Deloitte Technology Fast 500 Asia Pacific in 2009 and 2010. For more information about Wondershare and its products, please visit http://www.wondershare.com.

Wondershare is a registered trademark of Wondershare Software Co. Ltd. Other names may be trademarks of their respective owners.

SOURCE Wondershare Software Co., Ltd.

KISS® By Monster Mini Golf® Grand Opening Set for Multi-faceted Rock 'n Roll Themed Amusement Attraction in Las Vegas

Legendary KISS® Band Members to Inaugurate First-of-its-kind Property at Opening Event in Las Vegas on March 15

LAS VEGAS, March 7, 2012 -- KISS® By Monster Mini Golf®, a unique rock 'n roll themed amusement attraction based around the legendary band KISS® is set to open on Thursday, March 15 with co- founding members Paul Stanley and Gene Simmons , as well as band members Tommy Thayer and Eric Singer in attendance. As part of the celebration, Paul Stanley and Gene Simmons will slash through the ceremonial ribbon with their guitars and walk the "Black Carpet" with other notable guests.

 

"Our challenge is to continue to find ways to weave KISS into the very fabric of Americana. We'll be there to celebrate the first ever KISS® By Monster Mini Golf® grand opening in Las Vegas. This is miniature golf KISS style and another part of our KISS world. We've big plans for this and in this case what happens in Vegas won't stay in Vegas," said Paul Stanley.

Gene Simmons added, "This venue is perfect for Las Vegas. Where else can you go play a round of KISS® By Monster Mini Golf® and then renew your wedding vows in an official KISS "Hotter Than Hell" Wedding chapel, only in Vegas."

KISS® By Monster Mini Golf® is the first-of-its-kind indoor glow-in-the-dark custom-designed, rockin' 18-hole miniature golf course and will also host a state-of-the-art arcade, the largest KISS gift shop in the world, A KISS Gallery, the "Hotter Than Hell" Wedding Chapel, a private VIP Room, FANtastic KISS® themed event rooms and the "Rock 'n Roll All Nite" Cafe. KISS® By Monster Mini Golf® is located at 4503 Paradise Rd. Las Vegas, NV 89169 in the Shoppes at Harmon Square across from the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino.

"KISS® By Monster Mini Golf® has been in development for more than two years and it is destined to become a must see when anyone comes to visit Las Vegas," said Christina Vitagliano, Founder of KISS® By Monster Mini Golf®.

"The Kiss brand just keeps getting bigger and bigger around the world. KISS® By Monster Mini Golf® will be a favorite for the Kiss Army legion of loyal fans as well as new Kiss fans," said Dell Furano, CEO of Live Nation Merchandise, Kiss longtime worldwide exclusive licensing and merchandising partner.

About Monster Mini Golf

Monster Mini Golf is the leader in cutting-edge indoor glow-in-the-dark themed entertainment. Founded in 2004, the company boasts 30 (and counting) 18-hole miniature golf courses across the country. Each custom-designed course features an arcade game area, private event rooms, in-house DJ, and entertainment for the whole family. Updates/information visit www.monsterminigolf.com, or www.facebook.com/MonsterMiniGolfKISS .

About KISS

KISS, the legendary American rock band was founded in 1972. Four decades later KISS remains one of the most influential bands in the history of Rock and Roll. Achievements include the release of approximately 44 albums, sales of over 100 million albums, sold out concerts tours around the world and the incredible support of over 6 million Facebook fans worldwide. KISS has performed at the Super Bowl, 2002 Winter Olympics, 2009 Finale of American Idol, 2005 Rockin' The Corps Concert. In 2009, KISS was nominated for induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. KISS is currently recording their 2012 Album "Monster".

SOURCE KISS By Monster Mini Golf

Brasstown Valley Resort is Ready for Spring with Great Deals & Great Adventures Priced from $99 per night!

YOUNG HARRIS, Ga., March 8, 2012  -- Brasstown Valley Resort & Spa, North Georgia's premier mountain resort, is offering several great ways to celebrate spring throughout March & April.

• March 24th-25th enjoy the Seventh Annual Georgia Winegrowers Association Wine Highway Weekend from the comfort of Brasstown Valley Resort & Spa. The VIP Wine Weekend Package includes one night's lodging at the Resort in a Traditional Lodge Guestroom, a full hot southern style breakfast for two, and an exclusive private tour, including transportation, to: Crane Creek Vineyards, Cavender Creek Vineyards, Frogtown Cellars, Blackstock Vineyards and Habersham Winery. The Wine Weekend is priced from $284 per couple.* For more information and reservations visit www.brasstownvalley.com or call 800.201.3205.
• Spring Break Family Specials Available April 1st – April 12th. Take the family to the beautiful North Georgia Mountains and enjoy a Traditional Lodge Guestroom that can comfortably accommodate two adults and up to two children, 12 and under for free. Enjoy a 20% discount on all resort amenities including spa services at the Equani Spa, golf on the Dennis Griffths 18-hole championship course, horse riding from the Resort's stables, geo-caching and guided hikes. Spring Break and Easter Holiday mountain getaways start from only $99* per night, Sunday through Thursday, and $129* Friday-Saturday nights. For information and reservations visit www.BrasstownValley.com or call 800.201.3205.
• Easter Sunday Brunch & Easter Egg Hunt. Join us as a Resort Guest or for Brunch on Easter Sunday and participate in Brasstown Valley Resort's traditional Easter Egg Hunt with more than 2,000 eggs whimsically hidden around the resort's beautiful trails. There is also an inter-denominational worship service.

And to complete the Easter experience reserve your spot at the Resort's highly acclaimed Easter Brunch served from noon to 3 p.m. Priced at $39.95 per adult and $19.95 per child 6 – 12 (children under six are free). The Easter Brunch includes a sumptuous buffet with unique serving stations for salads, seafood, vegetables, brunch items and a hot carving station with fresh spring lamb as well as other roasted meats. Desserts include traditional Easter treats and the resort's signature Warm Bourbon Bread Pudding. For brunch reservations call: 706-379-4617.

*All guestroom and package rates do not include taxes, gratuities and a $10 per guestroom resort fee.

SOURCE Brasstown Valley Resort & Spa

The Happiest Place on Earth Is About to Get Happier

Disneyland Resort Announces June 15 Grand Opening of Cars Land, Buena Vista Street and Carthay Circle Theatre in Expanded Disney California Adventure Park

Engines Start Revving at Cars Land this Summer, Adding More Magic than Ever and Completing Five-Year Expansion of Disneyland Resort

ANAHEIM, Calif., March 7, 2012 -- The Happiest Place on Earth will get even happier June 15, 2012, with the grand opening of Cars Land , Buena Vista Street and the Carthay Circle Theatre at Disney California Adventure park. The exciting, new additions will complete the five-year expansion of Disneyland Resort, a premier, multi-day vacation destination in Southern California with two theme parks, three hotels and the Downtown Disney shopping and dining district.

 

 

With four new attractions opening at Disney California Adventure park, full day-to-night experiences at both parks, and the magical transformation of the Disneyland Hotel with new pools, themed suites and remodeled rooms, guests of all ages will enjoy more fun and adventure than ever before at the Disneyland Resort.

Cars Land expands Disney California Adventure by 12 acres and immerses guests in the thrilling world of the Disney•Pixar blockbuster "Cars." Guests will feel as if they have stepped into the town of Radiator Springs as they enjoy three family attractions showcasing characters and settings from the movie, plus "Cars"-themed dining and shopping locations such as Flo's V8 Cafe, Ramone's House of Body Art and Radiator Springs Curios.

One of the largest and most elaborate attractions ever created for a Disney park, Radiator Springs Racers is a twisting, turning, high-speed adventure through Ornament Valley and the town of Radiator Springs. Luigi's Flying Tires invites guests to glide on air aboard special tires, whirling around with their pals. At Mater's Junkyard Jamboree , guests will whip around behind a baby tractor and enjoy tunes from a giant jukebox built from Mater's most prized possessions.

Starting June 15, guests will enter Disney California Adventure along Buena Vista Street, a place that transports them to an era when Walt Disney arrived in California with new dreams: 1920s Los Angeles. Buena Vista Street features Red Car Trolleys , inspired by the transportation system that once served Southern California, and the Carthay Circle Theatre, modeled after the site of the 1937 world premiere of "Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs." Carthay Circle Theatre will include a lounge and the elegant Carthay Circle Restaurant, designed to be the premier dining location in Disney California Adventure.

Adding to the fun at Disney California Adventure this summer will be the new Mad T Party in Hollywood Land, the return of Pixar Play Parade, and the new Ghirardelli Soda Fountain and Chocolate Shop at Pacific Wharf. Mad T Party will feature nighttime, family fun inspired by the wild and whimsical world of Tim Burton's "Alice in Wonderland."

The summer debuts of Cars Land, Buena Vista Street and Carthay Circle Theatre complement previous additions to the park, including the 4D fun of Toy Story Mania; the spectacular after-dark "World of Color" show; The Little Mermaid ~ Ariel's Undersea Adventure; Boardwalk Pizza & Pasta and Paradise Garden Grill restaurants, plus the re-themed attractions Mickey's Fun Wheel, Silly Symphony Swings and Goofy's Sky School.

To accommodate a media preview and make final preparations for the exciting debuts, Disney California Adventure will be closed June 14. The fun, new attractions, locations and entertainment will open to the public June 15.

About the Disneyland Resort

The Disneyland Resort features two spectacular theme parks – Disneyland (the original Disney theme park) and Disney California Adventure park – plus three hotels and the Downtown Disney District, comprised of unique dining, entertainment and shopping experiences. The Resort's hotels are the luxurious, 948-room Disney's Grand Californian Hotel & Spa, which also features 50 two-bedroom equivalent DVC units; the magical, newly renovated, 969-room Disneyland Hotel – both AAA Four Diamond properties – and the 481-room Disney's Paradise Pier Hotel with its "day-at-the-beach" fun. For information on attractions and vacations at Disneyland Resort, visit www.disneyland.com, call (866) 43-DISNEY or contact local travel agents.

SOURCE Disneyland

Personalized Map Search Makes it Easy to Add Nearby Places to a Trip Itinerary on TripIt.com

Travelers Can Instantly Create Trip Plans from a Map that Displays Everything in One Place

SAN FRANCISCO, March 7, 2012 -- TripIt, the leading mobile trip organizer from Concur (Nasdaq: CNQR), today announced a whole new way to for travelers to instantly add plans to their itinerary by searching a personalized map for nearby restaurants or meeting places on TripIt.com.

In seconds, any new places from the traveler's map search can be added to their itinerary on TripIt.com. With everything from hotels to car reservations in one place, TripIt's mobile apps for iPhone, Android, BlackBerry and Windows Phone make it easier to know where to go while on-the-go.

"Just in time for the annual flock to Austin, we're excited to expand the ways trip plans can be instantly added to your itinerary using the convenience of a map," said Gregg Brockway, EVP and General Manager of TripIt. "Now, it's much easier to find a BBQ joint or coffee shop near your hotel and set up a meeting before you get to town. Plus, you'll have all the info on hand while you're traveling."

Map-based search is the latest way to instantly add trip plans to a TripIt itinerary. Other ways include:

• Send an email: Forward an email reservation from virtually any travel site to plans@tripit.com
• Automatically from the inbox: TripIt can automatically recognize travel confirmations in Gmail
• Click a button: Look for a "Send to TripIt" button on travel booking sites like Hotwire and Avis
• Online or on-the-go: Log on to TripIt.com or TripIt's mobile apps to manually add or edit plans

To learn more, visit www.tripit.com.

About TripIt
TripIt®, the leading mobile travel organizer from Concur® (Nasdaq: CNQR), makes it easy for millions of travelers to organize and share their trips. Simply forward confirmation emails from anywhere you book to plans@tripit.com and TripIt automagically creates one simple, smart itinerary to access on a smartphone, calendar, or anywhere online.

For even greater peace of mind while traveling, TripIt Pro acts like a personal travel assistant that keeps travelers in the know regarding flight status, alternate flights, and more; tracks all frequent traveler points in one place; and monitors eligible flights for fare refunds. TripIt for Business is an easier way for companies to organize office travel; keep track of who's traveling when and where, and whether travel dollars are being spent wisely.

For more information, please visit www.tripit.com and follow @TripIt at http://twitter.com/tripit.

About Concur
Concur® is a leading provider of integrated travel and expense management solutions for companies of all sizes. Concur's easy-to-use web-based and mobile solutions help companies and their employees control costs and save time. Learn more at www.concur.com.

SOURCE TripIt

The Beverly Hills Hotel and Bungalows Turns 100 and Introduces a Variety of Offerings to Mark its Milestone Birthday Year

Beloved by entertainment royalty, a haven for the world's famous, and now a century-old landmark

BEVERLY HILLS, Calif., March 6, 2012 -- When The Beverly Hills Hotel opened its doors on May 12, 1912, two years before the city of Beverly Hills was officially incorporated, it signaled the birth of the community and became a cherished second home to generations of entertainment names. Known to insiders as "The Pink Palace," and featuring not only the luxury hotel and iconic Polo Lounge restaurant but also a collection of Bungalows which have welcomed the likes of Marilyn Monroe, Elizabeth Taylor, John Lennon and more, The Beverly Hills Hotel remains one of our nation's most enduring icons.

"Over the past century, The Beverly Hills Hotel has become a second home to celebrity icons, community leaders, social dignitaries and industry tycoons," said Edward A. Mady, regional director of West Coast USA and general manager of Dorchester Collection. "As we turn 100 this year, a variety of special offerings have been created to capture the mystique of Hollywood's past and present, and pay homage to our coveted heritage," he adds.

In addition to a life-size lobby photo gallery showcasing its glamorous history, dining surprises, a trove of packages and red carpet experiences will highlight the hotel's celebration. Following are planned highlights for the year:

Dining and Entertainment

• "These Walls Are Talking" Cocktail Menu at The Polo Lounge and Bar Nineteen12, featuring anecdotal potables including a 100-year cocktail priced at $100 and served in an engraved collectible keepsake glass coupe with 100-year design. Cocktail favorites include The Rebel, inspired by the pants-wearing Marlene Dietrich; The Recluse, a nod to Bungalow long-timer Howard Hughes, who left his Cadillac parked next to the hotel for two years – long enough for the tires to go flat and for plants to begin growing in and out of the car; and The Norma Jean, featuring Dom Perignon by the glass presented in loving memory of Bungalow resident Marilyn Monroe.
• "Pop-Up 1912 Pricing" selected once a week in each dining venue, one lucky weekly table will be randomly selected to have their check amount converted to 1912 dollars.
• Food and beverage delights throughout the year, including a 100-Year Anniversary label Champagne; vintage menu covers sharing historic photos taken at The Polo Lounge, Fountain Coffee Shop and Cabana Cafe; and a Happy Birthday cake in the Polo Lounge.

Specialty Packages

• The Centennial Celebration, offering luxury accommodations, two complimentary cocktails from the "These Walls Are Talking" cocktail menu, keepsake 100-Year candle and chocolate truffle box, and daily American breakfast for two. Price begins at $660.
• The Little Legends Family Package for young guests, featuring a kids' red carpet arrival with photo shoot and an autograph seeker, and complete with boa, sunglasses and top hat. Little Legends also receive a VVIP welcome card, a choice of milk shake or ice cream sundae at The Fountain Coffee Shop, a personalized chocolate star "Walk of Fame" amenity, and an "I'm a Little Legend" 100-year tee-shirt. Price begins at $610.

Spa

• Celebration Spa Services, each priced at $100, including The Pink Palace Manicure and Pedicure, Diamond Anniversary Facial, and the Caviar Express Massage.

"The Beverly Hills Hotel and Bungalows - The First 100 Years"

• The long-anticipated book launch of Robert S. Anderson's "The Beverly Hills Hotel and Bungalows - The First 100 Years." The great grandson of the hotel's original owner Margaret Anderson, Mr. Anderson is also the official historian for The Beverly Hills Hotel. He has exclusive access to cherished images, historical documents and colorful anecdotes related to the hotel's fabled history -- and he tells his story with complete accuracy. A labor of love, "The Beverly Hills Hotel and Bungalows - The First 100 Years" offers never-been-seen-before photos along with celebrated images of the hotel's many illustrious guests, and will be unveiled at the launch party slated for May at the hotel. Mr. Anderson's book will be available for purchase via the hotel's website and in the Logo Shop, and will also be placed in hotel guest rooms and other high end stores. For additional information, please contact Diane Shader Smith, 310.386.6803; dianeshadersmith@gmail.com; or visit TheBeverlyHillsCollection.com.

The Time Capsule Revealed

• Opening of a historic Beverly Hills Hotel time capsule, placed at the property's front red-carpet entrance in 1993 and to be opened this year in honor of the City of Beverly Hills. While its contents are reportedly "unknown," artifacts including a cigar from frequent guest George Burns and a daily newspaper are rumored to be revealed.

The significance of this centennial year includes a look ahead to the future with the start of a thoughtful refurbishment program in March of 2012 to enhance the vibrancy of the hotel. "Through this loving and careful process, we plan to maintain much of the building's originality while adding elegant and sophisticated new touches," says Mr. Mady. "The hotel's signature banana leaves, green and white stripes and famous pink exterior will remain a constant, while the lobby, Polo Lounge, guestrooms, and famed pool and cabanas will be stylishly refreshed to make us internationally relevant with today's luxury traveler," he adds.

For more information or to make reservations, please contact 310.276.2251 or 800.283.8885 or visit www.beverlyhillshotel.com.

SOURCE Dorchester Collection

Fort Bragg, California Boasts Some Of The World's Best Beaches

Seven Beautiful Beaches Just Minutes From The City's Downtown

FORT BRAGG, Calif., Feb. 29, 2012 -- Are Fort Bragg beaches the best in the world? We think so.

Over a 12-mile stretch of Northern California's Mendocino Coast, our beaches offer more things to do, more rugged coastline, more hidden coves and sea caves, more interesting rocks, more birds, more clear water and more solitude than anyplace else we know of.

You can picnic, run, beach comb, explore tide pools, watch whales, go birding, ride horses, or photograph big waves … and even bigger sunsets. Three of our beaches are world renown for colorful frosted sea glass, tumbled into myriad fanciful shapes by majestic waves.

Although our beaches are enjoyed by surfers, abalone divers, sea kayakers, families, couples, adventure seekers, equestrians and pet lovers, you'll rarely see a crowd.

Fort Bragg also is proud to be the official "Gateway" to the California Coastal National Monument along the Mendocino Coast. Located off the 1,100 miles of California coastline, the California Coastal National Monument comprises more than 20,000 small islands, rocks, exposed reefs, and pinnacles between Mexico and Oregon. All those beautiful rocks are home to sea lions, harbor seals, pelicans, gulls and abundant marine life.

In addition to our Coastal National Monument, here are seven great Fort Bragg beaches to explore:

• Ten Mile Beach
• Virgin Creek Beach
• Glass Beach
• Pudding Creek Beach
• Hare Creek Beach
• Jug Handle Beach
• Caspar Beach

Safety Reminder:
As with beaches everywhere, beware of possible hazards, including slippery rocks, crumbling cliffs, and sneaker waves (large waves that seemingly surge out of nowhere). Our clean clear waters are cold (52-54 degrees Fahrenheit) so wetsuits are essential for swimming, surfing, or diving. Keeping children (and dogs) out of the water during big surf days is just good commonsense.

"Be Swept Away by the Beauty Not By the Waves" – Mendocino Coast Water Safety Coalition

SOURCE City of Fort Bragg Promotion Committee

I Need a Vacation!

MILWAUKEE, Feb. 28, 2012 -- Think about that headline, if only for just a second.

Now, ask yourself a question: How many times do you hear that phrase in any given week?

Chances are you hear it a lot. You hear it around the office water cooler, you hear it at the dinner table, you hear it as you pick up the kids from school, at the 19th hole after a round of golf and you hear it (from that little voice inside your head) after clearing your 118th email of the day. Fact is, you hear it almost every time you socially integrate and it's not accidental.

Let's be realistic; we live in a pressure cooker of a world. Forget about the normal responsibilities that come with day-to-day living. The information intensity that our society has experienced (over a relatively short period of time) has rendered many of us to monitoring at least 4 channels of information daily. Social Media, Professional Social Media, business emails, personal emails, voice mails, text messaging, land lines, newspapers, magazines, blogs - just pick your 4 favorites and feel free to add snail mail and faxes to the list.

Is it any wonder we could all use a vacation? Take heart, gentle readers, because there's never been a better time to start planning your next, much needed, vacation.

Circle your calendars because National Plan A Vacation Week is right around the corner, March 18th - 24th: http://www.planavacationweek.com .

This powerful and broad-reaching initiative will showcase a world of vacation options with something for everyone's tastes, budget and time constraints. From American Discoveries to Extraordinary Europe; Family Fun, Pacific Paradises, Tropical Adventures, Viva Mexico and Occasions for Amazement, National Plan A Vacation Week promises to bring value for your dollar and things far more important.

Those things are re-connecting with family, loved ones and friends or just going solo on a sojourn of self-discovery. It's about rejuvenation, revitalization and experiencing the things that enrich our lives, our souls.

It's about making memories - the kind of memories that last longer than your hard drive after it's fried and your picture folder goes to cyber sanitation heaven. It's about taking care of you.

When it comes to planning a getaway there's nobody better to turn to than a Professional Travel Agent. Like lawyers, accountants and hairdressers/barbers, you want to find a good one and hang on for dear life. While their demise was trumpeted by many (all of the pundits, as it happens, had no fundamental understanding of their role, skill sets and value) Professional Agents have adapted, are thriving and generating more business than ever before.

Professional Agents have endured because they add value. They have the expertise, the skill sets and an appreciation for not only what to do, where to go and what to see. They can offer counsel on the things that an individual who isn't a Travel Professional would never know - the types of things that could quite possibly result in a less than great experience.

Remember - Without a Travel Agent, You're on Your Own.

National Plan A Vacation Week would even suggest that you look at a Professional Travel Agent as your personal GPS on the highway to vacation happiness.

Now get out and make some memories - and while you're at it, have the time of your life!

SOURCE National Plan A Vacation Week