Group Logos Specially Sculpted In Sand At Velas Resorts

Group Logo Hand-Crafted in Sand for a Personalized Group Experience Puerto Vallarta, Mexico (May 21, 2015) – The “Beyond All Inclusive, Beyond All Compare” Velas Resorts in Puerto Vallarta, Riviera Maya and Riviera Nayarit introduce their new personalized amenity for groups, group logos hand-sculpted in Mexico’s sand. Groups can now send their unique logo to any of the four Velas Resorts – which include Casa Velas, Grand Velas Riviera Maya, Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit, and Velas Vallarta - prior to their trip and arrive to see their customized logo hand-crafted in the sand. Up-lit logos are the ideal accompaniment to nighttime cocktail and beach parties on the sand, in the gardens or on terraces which overlook the beach. The sculptures start at $1000 for 6.5 ft. X 6.4 ft. and must be coordinated in advance. Offering unparalleled all-inclusive experiences for meetings and incentives, Velas Resorts offer spacious luxury accommodations, world-class spas, a la carte gourmet cuisine at a selection of specialty restaurants, and an indefinable hospitality experience. For more information about Velas Resorts and its group events, please call 1-866-847-4609 or visit www.velasmeetingsmexico.com.  About Velas Resorts Meetings: Offering unparalleled all-inclusive experiences for meetings and incentives, the four Velas Resorts in Riviera Maya, Puerto Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit have earned more than 43 AAA Diamonds, including the prestigious Five Diamond Award. Other esteemed international awards for their services and facilities include Virtuoso’s “Best Spa”, Conde Nast Johansens’ “Most Excellent Resort” and “Most Excellent Spa Hotel” and the American Academy of Hospitality Sciences’ 5 Star Diamond Award. Properties include Casa Velas, a boutique adults-only hotel and ocean club located on the Marina Vallarta Golf Course, named the 8th Best Hotel in the World on The Expedia® 2013 Insiders’ Select™ List, and Velas Vallarta, a family-friendly all suites resort and spa located on Banderas Bay, both in Puerto Vallarta; and the AAA Five Diamond Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit located on Mexico’s famed Riviera Nayarit. Completing the group is Grand Velas Riviera Maya, located five minutes from Playa del Carmen, which offers the most sophisticated, ultra luxury all-inclusive resort experience in the Caribbean with jungle and beach settings. State of the art conference centers range up to 91,547 square feet of indoor and outdoor meetings and events space and offer an efficient and versatile canvas for creating scenic events and business gatherings from 10 to 3,000 guests. Outdoor gardens, terraces, protected beach area and gazebo space create beautiful backdrops for special events and meeting receptions, and five-star catering is ensured for any meeting or event and customized or pre-planned themed parties. Velas Resorts also feature spacious accommodations, spas, a unique culinary experience at a selection of restaurants, 24-hour insuite service, fitness centers, Butler service, extensive family programs,  fully stocked mini bar and more. Velas Resorts are operated by Eduardo Vela Ruiz, majority owner, founder and president of Velas Resorts, with brother Juan Vela by his side, vice president of Velas Resorts. ###

Growth In Air Transport Demand For 1st Quarter of 2015

Montréal, 11 May 2015 – According to the latest statistics from Airports Council International (ACI) World, global passenger traffic increased by over 6% for the first quarter of 2015 and by 7% for the month of March as compared to the previous year. International passenger traffic grew by 6.8% year-over-year whereas domestic traffic grew by 5.7% for the period from January to March 2015. While all regions reported gains in passenger traffic, most of the buoyant activity stemmed from the Asia-Pacific and Middle East regions, with respective gains of 11.1% and 10% in passenger traffic for the month of March. Many of the busiest airports in the Asia-Pacific region posted double-digit growth for the first quarter. Shanghai (PVG), Incheon (ICN), Bangkok (BKK) and New Delhi (DEL) increased by 17.7%, 15.6%, 14.8% and 13% respectively. Abu Dhabi (AUH) and Doha (DOH), two of the fastest growing airports in the Middle East, grew by 21.1% and 16.8% respectively. Much of the growth, particularly with respect to the Asia-Pacific region, stems from the remnants of leisure travel during the February Lunar New Year. Air freight experienced more modest growth as volumes increased by 1.4% for the month of March, although the first quarter saw an overall increase of 4.7% year over year. The slowed growth in March comes after the upsurge in February due to the Lunar New Year and the modal shift towards air transport resulting from congestion at sea ports along the western coast of the United States. Growth rates across the globe were mixed for the month of March. Although North America has maintained a solid growth rate of 5.7% year over year in March, results were mixed at the sub-regional level. Memphis (MEM) and Louisville (SDF), two of North America's largest air freight hubs, were in decline by 2% and 0.4% respectively, while West coast and Midwest airports posted solid gains. Chicago (ORD), Los Angeles (LAX) and Anchorage (ANC) had huge jumps of 32.9%, 14.5% and 12.8% respectively for the month of March. Both Asia-Pacific and Europe saw a decline of 1.4% and 1.9% respectively. Hong Kong (HKG), the world's largest air freight hub, declined by 8.2% in March. ACI World Economics Director Rafael Echevarne commented: "The first quarter was largely distorted by external shocks which affected demand. In spite of these distortions, we still witness overall solid growth in both passenger and air freight traffic over the period. After removing all of the noise, we have yet to see the impact that the global business cycle will have on air transport demand. There are two forces at play that are working in opposite directions. On the one hand, we see improved economic conditions in the United States. On the other hand, with a Chinese slowdown and the continued uncertainty in Europe, the net effect on air transport remains to be seen."

The Renaissance Lodge's Meeting Space Renovation

Resort in Sonoma creates the ultimate meeting venue in California Wine Country

Sonoma, CA (May 5, 2015) – The Renaissance Lodge at Sonoma Resort & Spa recently completed a $370,000 renovation of its meeting space, providing the largest and most sophisticated, eco-friendly conference venues in California Wine Country.

The thoughtful blending of new sleek contemporary furnishings with the sophistication and charm of Sonoma Wine country creates a warm, inviting yet refined meeting environment with 23,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor function space.  The resort features 11 bright and airy Sonoma wine country conference rooms all showcasing new flooring, lighting and wall treatments and each with its own personality and functionality.  Among the new offerings:

The Sonoma Ballroom, at 3,080 square feet, is the largest meeting space in the Valley.  Divided into three sections, the Ballroom accommodates up to 400 people for receptions and 252 for banquets.  This sophisticated setting, rich in textures and colors, also offers a dance floor.

The Stone Building features a grand fireplace and high-beamed ceiling, in addition to an in-room bar that can seat 170 guests for dinner and dancing. This venue is perfect for corporate luncheons or receptions with doors leading out to sweeping lawns and gardens and combined square footage of 8,704.

Additionally, the Sonoma luxury hotel supports Marriott’s Green Initiative commitment and carries the Green Leader designation from TripAdvisor.  To further these goals, the renovation also included:

·         Installation of a 7,000 square foot, eco-friendly artificial lawn for outdoor social events, designed by San Francisco Company Heavenly Greens. This installation results in the savings of 15,000 gallons of water for irrigation annually along with erosion reduction and improved drainage capabilities.

·         All of the Sonoma County meeting space has been converted to linen-less furniture, reducing over 300,000 gallons of water and 500 lbs of detergent per year.

·         LED lighting has been installed in meeting rooms and public spaces, saving 36,000 kilowatts of electricity annually.

·         Meeting spaces are converting to the use of more ergonomic chairs and furniture, as well as utilizing more recycled materials.

·         Reducing the quantity of vinyl wall coverings in lieu of more sustainable hard surfaces and painted walls.

“We are delighted to be able to showcase our recent renovations and ongoing work in the field of green initiatives,” says General Manager Suzy Hart. “We remain deeply committed to eco-commerce while providing a stellar wine country experience for all of our guests.”

About The Renaissance Lodge at Sonoma Resort & Spa Showcasing the incredible beauty of the Sonoma Valley, The Renaissance Lodge at Sonoma Resort & Spa expertly combines authentically artisan surroundings with contemporary facilities to create a haven of casual sophistication. A total of 182 guest rooms and suites, multiple dining and entertainment options (including award-winning Carneros Bistro and The Spa at Renaissance Sonoma), provide a great base from which to explore and discover California’s most popular wine country.

The Renaissance Lodge at Sonoma Resort & Spa, a member of the Marriott group, (707) 935-6600, 1325 Broadway, Sonoma, CA 95476. www.marriott.com/sfols. To discover more, like us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter and find us at Pinterest and Foursquare.

About The Renaissance Lodge at Sonoma Resort & Spa Showcasing the incredible beauty of the Sonoma Valley, The Renaissance Lodge at Sonoma Resort & Spa expertly combines authentically artisan surroundings with contemporary facilities to create a haven of casual sophistication. A total of 182 guest rooms and suites, multiple dining and entertainment options (including award-winning Carneros Bistro & Wine Bar and The Spa at Renaissance Sonoma), provide a great base from which to explore California’s most popular wine country.

For information, visit www.marriott.com/SFOLS  or call 1-707-935-6600. To discover more, like The Renaissance Lodge at Sonoma Resort & Spa on Facebook, follow the resort on Twitter  and Instagramand find it on Pinterest and Foursquare.

Scottsdale's Solace For The Summer Solstice

Scottsdale’s luxury resorts offer hot discounts that beat the dry heat www.SummerinScottsdale.com

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. (May 5, 2015) – When you envision Scottsdale during the summer, do you see a dry, barren desert, where weather-worn locals proclaim through parched lips, "At least it's a dry heat"? Well, think again. Locals have a secret weapon that helps them survive May, June, July and August. We’ll let you in on the secret. Scottsdale’s 70 hotels and resorts offer ridiculously hot deals with rates as low as 60 percent off peak season. Take a cue from locals and rise early to hike in the breathtaking, lush Sonoran Desert, hit the golf course during the cool morning hours, soak up sun in your bathing suit while sipping a chilled margarita at a resort pool, and head to the spa for a heavily discounted, relaxing afternoon. After a few days in this warm weather destination, you’ll gleefully proclaim, “It is a dry heat!” KEEP COOL AND CARRY ONBeat the heat this summer at The Saguaro Scottsdale with the “Desert Splash” package. Lounge poolside under a shaded cabana while cooling off with a refreshing complimentary pitcher of Casamigos Tequila Margaritas. Every Saturday afternoon, the brightly-colored boutique hotel in the heart of downtown transforms into one big pool party, complete with DJs and a sunscreen station. Stay at the resort June 1 through Sept. 30 and you’ll also receive Saguaro sunglasses, Chap Stick and a drink cooler. Rates start at $109. Jump into the “Summer Splash” package with rates starting at $129 at We-Ko-Pa Resort and Conference Center. Doubling as an adult playground, the resort boasts a 24-hour casino, seven restaurants and two of the top-rated golf courses in Arizona. We-Ko-Pa has everything you need for a grown-up’s summer getaway. Stay April 30 through June 30 to receive a $50 food and beverage credit valid at the Pool Bar & Grill, Ahnala Restaurant or in-room dining. The package also includes $5 and $10 Casino Slot Play vouchers, so you can test your luck at Fort McDowell Casino. While you’re getting a healthy dose of vitamin D and slathering on the tanning oil, why not enjoy a tasty margarita? With the “Tequila and Tanlines” package at FireSky Resort & Spa, you’ll receive a complimentary pitcher of margaritas from Taggia Bar. The “Tequila and Tanlines” package is available May 19 through Sept. 6 with rates starting at $109 per night. Stay hydrated with summer spirits and ales at these Scottsdale bars and breweries: Partake in a bar experience like no other at Second Story Liquor Bar. Your taste buds will thank you as you sip craft cocktails created by “Whiskey Man” John Christie. His bar menu guides you through a selection of fine spirits and the evolution of cocktail culture, from Sazeracs to mules. Vegas meets South Beach in the heart of downtown’s Entertainment District at Maya Day and Nightclub.This high-end club offers an outdoor beach club with a resort-style pool, VIP cabanas and a floating stage for deejays. At night, the club transforms, bringing in some of the hottest electronic dance music entertainers such as Cedric Gervais, Steve Aoki and Bingo Players. Explore downtown Scottsdale’s suds scene with a day of sipping and inadvertent spilling on Scottsdale’s ale trail. With stops at Sip Coffee & Beer House, Union Barrelhouse, Two Brothers Brewing and Bad Water Brewing, there’s no doubt you’ll cool off in no time. A FAMILY AFFAIRYour entire family will be eager to dive in to summer at Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale at Troon North. Relax poolside with complimentary cabanas and enjoy nighttime entertainment with “Dive-In” movies every Saturday night throughout the summer. While you relax and recharge, the kids will relish in the Kids for All Seasons program open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. with scheduled activities and complimentary access to board games, ping pong and more. Stop by Proof, an American canteen for “Sundaes on Sunday” and treat the family to an old-fashioned ice cream social with “buy one, get one” sundaes. Rates begin at $179 per night, valid June 1 through Aug. 31. Zoom across a zip line, cool down on waterslides and watch fireworks light up the night sky this summer atFairmont Scottsdale Princess. The “Sip, Savor and Splash” package equips guests with a $50 resort credit perfect for sampling any of 240 tequilas at La Hacienda or retreating to Well & Being Spa. Seeking a thrill? Poolside is the place to be with the spinning water adventure, SplashRider X-treme, and 200-foot waterslides. Guests are also able to upgrade to a Casita Signature Jr. Suite with the “Upgrade Your Summer” package. Rates for both packages start at $169 per night, May 22 through Sept. 6. Need to escape the heat? Check out one of these off-site activities to cool off: Bring your flashlights to Desert Botanical Garden Thursdays and Saturdays May 23 through Sept. 5 to explore the Garden’s trails by night. Flashlight Tours run 7 p.m. to 9 p.m., letting you experience the Sonoran Desert’s flora and fauna beneath the stars. Have the need for speed? Octane Raceway has you covered with high speed electric karts, trackside bar and grill, billiards, rock wall and arcade. Test your racing skills at the only full-time indoor- and outdoor- track in the United States. Giddy up, cowboy! Take the kids to the recently unveiled Western Spirit: Scottsdale’s Museum of the Westto browse the museum’s vast collection of paintings, sculptures and artifacts that tell the history of the ever-evolving American West. STAY AND PLAYBoulders Resort & Spa is the perfect destination to de-stress this summer, with two award-winning golf courses and the 33,000-square-foot Spa at The Boulders. If you’re looking to combine the best of golf and spa, the resort is offering the “Two by Fore” package. The package includes private casita accommodations, one round of golf per paying adult with same day replay, a 20 percent spa discount at the spa, as well as complimentary access to spa facilities and unlimited fitness classes. Rates start at $189 per night May 26 through Sept. 10, with a two-night minimum stay. Challenge yourself to two championship, 18-hole golf courses at JW Marriott Scottsdale Camelback Inn Resort & Spa. Stay now through Dec. 31 and receive casita guest room accommodations and a $100 resort credit per night, which can be put toward golf at 36 holes of championship golf at Camelback Golf Club. The “$100 Resort Credit” package rate starts at $229 per night with promo code: P50. Can’t get enough of golf? Keep hitting the links at these spots: Combine competition with entertainment at TopGolf Scottsdale at Riverwalk. Perfect for kids or adults with any range of skill level, this state-of-the-art facility challenges you and your friends to score points by aiming for lit-up targets on an outfield with microchipped golf balls. Celebrate your victory or ease the pain of your loss at TopGolf’s full service bar. Golf enthusiasts, listen up. Prepare to rejoice this summer at TPC Scottsdale as you get your greens fix with unlimited golf on the Champions Course. The offer grants you as many rounds in the same day as you’d like June 1 through Sept. 13 with rates starting at $39 per player. Retreat to Starfire Golf Clubfor a challenging 27 hole-course, designed by legendary golf pro Arnold Palmer. Tee times are available throughout the summer with rates starting at $25 per player Monday through Friday, and $35 on Saturday and Sunday. LAP OF LUXURY Step into a luxurious paradise at Royal Palms Resort & Spa with the “Luxe Lounging” package, offered May 26 through Sept. 30. Enjoy two refreshing welcome cocktails and a room upgrade upon arrival before indulging in a hearty meal at T. Cooks with a $25 dining credit. And restore yourself at the Alvadora Spa with a massage or body therapy compliments of two $40 spa credits. Rates start at $149 per night with promo code: PLL. Channel your inner Monet, Van Gough and O’Keefe with The Hermosa Inn’s “Artist for a Day” summer package. Brush up on your painting skills and retreat to the Inn’s Blue Door Art Studio & Gallery May 1 through Sept. 7 to enjoy a 90-minute private painting lesson with on-property artists, two drink tickets to Last Drop at The Hermosa Inn and accommodations in a luxury casita. Rates start at $355 per night. Continue the indulgence at one of these off-site restaurants: In the heart of the Scottsdale dining scene, Bink’s Scottsdale offers a relaxed atmosphere and a menu crafted by James Beard nominee Chef Kevin Binkley. His dishes feature locally produced organic meats, fruits and vegetables, paired up with an extensive wine list and a cocktail list from master mixologist Richie Moe. Treat your taste buds to Pig & Pickle. This chic gastropub features eclectic comfort food, hand-crafted cocktails, homemade aioli and freshly grown herbs. With dishes like braised duck and wood-oven-roasted bone marrow and old-school cocktails, this Scottsdale gem will leave you more than satisfied. Hand over the culinary reins to Chef Joshua Hebert when you dine at the upscale Posh “Improvisational Cuisine.” Provide Chef Hebert your dining preferences and dietary restrictions, and he’ll whip you up a customized menu on the spot.