HEIGHTENED AIRLINE SECURITY UPDATE In response to a failed attack on a Northwest Airlines Detroit flight on Dec. 25, international flights into the US are facing heightened security screenings. Transportation Security Administration (TSA) issued a security directive that applies to all US-bound flights (the directive does not apply to domestic flights within the US, but many airlines are still enforcing increased security). The increased screening has resulted in delays on both international and domestic flights in the US. Airlines and travelers have reported increased security checks, including: • Heightened screening procedures including pat-downs and carry-on checks • A second screening at the gate • Passengers banned from leaving seats during last hour in flight • Passengers banned from using electronic devices while in flight • Carry-on items to remain stowed during last hour in flight, including blankets and pillows • Increased numbers of bomb-sniffing dogs at airports • Carry-on limited to one bag per traveler These heightened measures are largely dependent on the airline and may vary widely from flight to flight and airport to airport. Travelers are advised to allow additional time for check-in procedures and to contact the airline directly to determine any new security restrictions. It is also advisable to minimize the use of carry-on luggage to avoid longer security screening delays. The TSA Has Published Guidelines for Passengers on the Heightened Security Measures. The TSA's guidelines, including a Q&A on the heightened security measures, can be accessed by following this link: http://www.tsa.gov/press/happenings/dec25_guidance.shtm For more information, please contact your dedicated Ovation Account Manager. CANADA BANS MOST US-BOUND CARRY-ON BAGS Canadian officials have banned most carry-on luggage for US-bound passengers. Transport Canada said Monday that passengers may only carry medical devices, small purses, cameras, laptop computers, canes, walkers, diaper bags, musical instruments and bags containing "life-sustaining items." Transport Canada said it is trying to alleviate backlogs at security checkpoints, after passengers complained of chaos and long lines at Pearson International Airport in Toronto earlier this week. Police are now helping with security at four of Canada's biggest airports after Transport Canada requested assistance. Police are performing a secondary search of passengers after they pass the main security check point at airports in Toronto, Montreal, Calgary and Edmonton, Alberta. About 40 Royal Canadian Mounted Police officers are doing searches at Pearson. Transport Canada spokesman Patrick Charette said the measures are expected to remain in place for at least several days. Every US-bound passenger was subjected to a pat-down and luggage was inspected by hand. Getting through the checks took about three hours, with some information boards citing the security measures for several delays and cancelations. DUTCH TO USE FULL BODY SCANS FOR US FLIGHTS Amsterdam's Schiphol Airport will begin using bodyscanners on all passengers taking flights to the United States following the attempted terrorist attack on a US-bound flight on Christmas Day, the Dutch interior minister said Wednesday. The millimeter-wave bodyscanners will be in place in about three weeks, Dutch Interior Minister Guusje ter Horst told a news conference at The Hague. "We've escaped a very serious attack with serious consequences, but unfortunately in this world there are individuals who do not shy away from attacks on innocent people," she said. "The introduction of these bodyscanners would certainly have helped in detecting that something is being carried on a body," she said. "We know that metal detection does not help to detect non-metal explosives, and these millimeter-wave scanners can do this, which would mean that this would be an improvement." The scanners will be permanent at Schiphol, and any passengers bound for the United States who do not go through them will be bodysearched, ter Horst said.
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Elegantly discreet yet boldly contemporary. Grandly romantic yet personally comforting. Expect the unexpected at Hotel ICON, a recipient of Condé Nast Traveler's esteemed Gold List 2007, and the Houston destination of choice for discerning guests seeking a respite from the conventional hotel experience. See and be seen by captains of industry, fashion enthusiasts, well-heeled international travelers and neighborhood locals lured to Hotel ICON for its many charms. An elusive blend of grand Neo-Classical architecture and dynamic contemporary appointments invite lavish comfort, intimacy and modern efficiency at the confluence of downtown Houston's dynamic business, theater, legal and sports districts. Savor mouthwatering dishes at the award-winning VOICE restaurant. Vamp openly in the city's most flirtatious lounge. Relish a relaxing massage or other indulgence at the Balance day spa or in one's own suite's lavish bathroom. Challenge oneself with custom equipment in an expansive 24-hour executive fitness center. Host an exquisite, mesmerizing event, wedding or meeting in the ICON's nearly 7,000 square feet of elegantly appointed meeting and event space. Defy conventional expectations. Expect more from a hotel, not less. Expect Hotel ICON to delight, surprise and reward at every turn.
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The new design is based on the American architect Frank Lloyd Wright's concept of the hearth being the heart and soul of a house. They have created a place that draws its spirit from the bed, a custom-designed piece that becomes the central element of the room. All Deluxe Rooms Include: *Customized Bed with luxurious duvet and 100% cotton, 300-count Egyptian bed linens *Desk and Aeron Chairs *Voice Mail, Data Port, Dual Phone Lines *Direct TV HBO, CNN, ESPN, and SNY *Hi-Speed Internet Access *Laptop-Compatible In-Room Safe *Sony Wega Flat screen TV *CD Player *Digital Alarm Clock Radio *Compact Refrigerator *Microwave *Iron & Board *Essential Elements amenities *Coffee/Tea Maker *Hair Dryer *Shaving and Make-Up Mirror
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The Omni Austin Hotel in downtown Austin, Texas is a magnificently appointed, luxury hotel that surrounds one with comfort and style. Inside, one will find thoughtfully appointed accommodations with spectacular views. Outside, is Texas at its best. With the heart of the thriving downtown business center at the hotel’s doorstep, one is just steps away from the Austin Convention Center and the Texas State Capitol. For pleasure, the lively 6th Street Entertainment District is located nearby. Quite simply, the Omni Austin Hotel Downtown provides the ultimate in luxury, comfort and convenience. Just 11 miles from Austin Bergstrom International Airport.
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* 20 minutes from San Francisco International * Located in the heart of the financial district * On the famous California cable car line Guest Comfort: * 400 square foot guestrooms * Executive desk * 24-hour Room Service * Twice-daily housekeeping * Windows that open * Pillow top mattresses Complimentary Services: * T-1 high speed internet access * 24-hour fitness center * Downtown car service * In-room laptop safes * Wireless in public areas Awards & Recognition: * AAA Four Diamond Award * Conde Nast 2005 Gold List * DiRona Award winning Bob's Steak & Chop House
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