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ROAD WARRIORS GOING GREEN
(source: The New York Times)
A growing number of business travelers are seeking out hotels that have adopted recycling, energy-efficient lighting and other green practices, according to a recent survey by Deloitte. Of 1,155 business travelers surveyed nationwide, 34% said they purposely looked for environment friendly hotels, while 28% said they would be willing to pay more for green lodgings, the New York-based research firm reported this week.
Most respondents said they expected hotels to have basic green practices, like recycling or energy-efficient lighting. Nearly 60% said they sought out hotels with energy-efficient windows, while nearly half said they expected hotels to use green cleaning products. All told, more than 70% said the lodging industry in general was "only somewhat green" in their opinion.
The survey also found that younger business travelers were less likely to turn off the lights and lower the air conditioner when leaving their hotel rooms, or to request bedding or towels not to be changed.
"We found there is often a discrepancy between what travelers expect of hotels and the green initiatives that hotels ultimately undertake," Neale Redington, a hospitality researcher at Deloitte, said in a statement. "Those that do the best job of delivering on their promises of sustainability will win the day with tomorrow's increasingly discerning business travelers."
STUDY PREDICTS FURTHER FINANCIAL TURBULENCE FOR AIRLINES
(source: Arizona Daily Star)
Major airlines could be in bankruptcy by early next year if oil prices stay where they are, a new study predicts. Other analysts predict the industry is bound to recover at some point and could even evolve into something more friendly for investors and travelers alike.
The grimmest analysis, by the consulting firm AirlineForecasts, was commissioned by the Business Travel Coalition. Its author concludes that the airline industry is in a full-blown crisis.
The AirlineForecasts study found that if fuel prices remain high the top 25 carriers will spend more than $28 billion more for fuel this year and the major airlines could lose up to $9 billion over the next 12 months. Fares would have to increase 20% across the board to compensate for the higher costs, something that "is not possible given the level of uneconomic seat capacity in the system today."
"We're in uncharted territory in terms of the magnitude of this," said the AirlineForecasts report's author, Vaughn Cordle. He pointed out that his analysis was "a snapshot of the current situation," and that things could improve if fuel prices decline or the industry makes moves to stem the red ink.
MILES FOR THE CURE
American Airlines has announced that its “Miles for the Cure” campaign, which ran from April 16 through May 31, will continue until the airline has raised $1 million for Susan G. Komen for the Cure. The fundraising effort, which awards five AAdvantage miles to donors for each dollar they contribute over the $25 mark, reported $600,000 in donations from the initial run alone. Today, that number had already exceeded $630,000.
Roger Frizzell, American’s vice president of corporate communications and advertising, and Katrina McGhee, vice president of marketing for Susan G. Komen for the Cure, expressed their gratitude to the 6,500-plus AAdvantage members who have already contributed to the campaign in a press release. The two organizations have a long-standing history together that spans two decades, during which AA has sponsored various events.
Susan G. Komen for the Cure is the largest source of nonprofit funds dedicated to fighting breast cancer. To make a donation and earn your AAdvantage miles, visit www.aa.com/komen.
E-NEWSLETTER READERS TELL US WHAT THEY LOOK FOR IN HOTELS
In response to Ovation’s recent survey – “What's your top priority when choosing a hotel for business travel?” - 26% of readers told us their top priority is that it’s close in proximity to where they do business. In-room business amenities and staying within budget were equally important to readers, as each got 22% of readers’ votes. Points fanatics make up 18% of readers, and 13% are trying to help the environment by choosing green hotels when traveling for business.
OVATION CLUB E-NEWSLETTER WEEKLY SURVEY!
The Ovation Club E-Newsletter Weekly Survey gives you the opportunity to weigh in by voting your opinion on hot topics in business travel. You can also post comments online on the topic of the week.
Question of the Week: With recent changes to many of the airlines' frequent flyer policies (such as Delta recently implementing a $25-50 fuel surcharge even on award tickets) has your attitude towards frequent flyer programs changed in recent months?
- I'm done! I no longer think it's worth it to stick with a loyalty program. I'm totally over it.
- Where's the loyalty? Frequent flyer downgrades are frustrating and disappointing. What's the point of sticking with a program when the rewards are lackluster?
- Go with the flow. I don't think the recent changes are that big of a deal. The airlines have to do what they can to offset rising fuel costs.
- Small price to pay. I've been true to my program for a long, long time and I still feel my points are valuable and worth earning and redeeming.
- Gimme more! I'm excited about the rewards that are currently being offered and totally enthusiastic to continue participating in my frequent flyer program(s).
To cast your vote go to: https://ovationtravel.com/enewssurvey/
OVATION PREFERRED HOTEL PARTNERS PROGRAM
THE LONDON NYC
151 West 54th Street
New York City
 Announcing the "Luxury Suite Collection" at The London NYC.
The London Sky Suites - Welcome to a luxurious retreat fifty stories above Manhattan. The Sky Suites, generously proportioned from 650 to 950 square feet, occupy the top two floors (53rd and 54th), placing one at the top of the city.
The London Sky Apartments - Located on the top floors of The London Hotel each apartment boasts 1,800 square feet of living space with complimentary high-speed Internet access, including wireless connection. Suites also include separate study area with oversized executive desk, dining room that seats 6-8 for formal or casual in-room dining, Sub-Zero refrigerator and a well-stocked automated personal bar brimming with essentials and indulgences.
The London Atrium Suite - Situated underneath an expansive glass atrium ceiling surrounded by the Manhattan skyline, The London Atrium Suite presents panoramic views of Central Park and the Hudson River, as well as all the stars the eye can see. Designer David Collins has created more than 1,500 square feet of luxurious living in a most rare setting.
The London Penthouse - In addition to this unforgettable setting, guests of the Penthouse enjoy amenities as spectacular as the surroundings they reside in. This experience is complimented by additional amenities such as a personal concierge, an evening Chef's Table in the inner sanctum of Gordon Ramsay's kitchen, breakfast delivered daily to your suite, daily traditional afternoon tea service and access to a private car and driver to take you anywhere you want to go in Manhattan.
OVATION PREFERRED HOTEL PARTNERS PROGRAM
BOSTON HARBOR HOTEL
70 Rowes Wharf
Boston
 Experience Boston’s newest Mobil 5 Star Hotel.
The Boston Harbor Hotel is Boston’s premier waterfront hotel, located steps from the Moakley Federal Courthouse and major law firms and financial companies in Boston’s Financial District. This 230-room hotel features guestrooms with panoramic views of the Boston skyline and Rose Kennedy Greenway, or historic Boston Harbor. A recently completed $12 million renovation guarantees each guest the highest levels of luxury at this Five Star property. The hotel offers a full service health club and spa with 60 foot indoor lap pool, fine dining in Meritage, a Four Diamond awarded restaurant with views of Boston Harbor, as well as complimentary town car service to local offices.
The Ovation Preferred Hotel Partners Program rates at Boston Harbor Hotel start at $290 through November 13, 2008 (compared to a corporate rate of $550) including complimentary wireless and high speed internet access. During the months of July and August, Ovation clients will enjoy a complimentary upgrade to the next available room category.
OVATION PREFERRED HOTEL PARTNERS PROGRAM
INTERCONTINENTAL STEPHEN F. AUSTIN
701 Congress Avenue
Austin
 The InterContinental Stephen F. Austin Hotel is a historic Austin icon located in the heart of one of America’s most culturally vibrant cities. Within the hotel, you’ll find world class dining, health facilities and 6,000 sq. feet of banquet and meeting space. A preferred downtown Austin hotel among the local business community, the InterContinental Stephen F. Austin Hotel is only three blocks from the State Capitol Building and one block from the Austin entertainment district. The Concierge can guide you to the best hidden gems in restaurants, shopping, theatre, sporting and cultural events in this exciting city.
The Ovation Preferred Hotel Partners Program rate at the InterContinental Stephen F. Austin Hotel is $205 (compared to a corporate rate of $299).
OVATION PREFERRED HOTEL PARTNERS PROGRAM
ST. REGIS
923 16th and K Streets NW
Washington DC
 The St. Regis Washington, DC – Open and Unforgettable.
Desirably located just two blocks from the White House and built in the style of an Italian Renaissance palace, the new St. Regis opened in early 2008 after an extensive 16 month renovation of all guest rooms, meeting rooms and public areas. The legendary hotel has introduced an unrivaled standard of hospitality in the nation’s capital. Debuting with the unveiling of 150 Guest Rooms, 25 luxuriously appointed suites featuring the finest Guest Room materials together with the most updated technology. Designed by celebrated designer Sills Huniford, the St. Regis will represent the finest expression of hotel luxury in the nation’s capital including a 2,500 square foot Presidential Suite. Whilst in residence, guests can rely on the ever-attentive, always on call Signature St. Regis Butler to fulfill their personal requests and needs.
The Ovation Preferred Hotel Partners Program rate at the St. Regis Washington DC is $375 (compared to a corporate rate of $495) though September 7.
OVATION PREFERRED HOTEL PARTNERS PROGRAM
HUNTINGTON HOTEL & NOB HILL SPA
1075 California Street
San Francisco
 The Huntington Hotel & Nob Hill Spa has been ranked consistently as not only the most distinguished choice of San Francisco luxury hotels, but as one of the finest places to stay in the world. Withstanding more than three-quarters of a century in the heart of the community, this family-owned and operated San Francisco hotel property is regarded as one of the last bastions of the city's deep historic roots. Recent honors bestowed upon this downtown San Francisco, California hotel include:
*2007 Peter Goldman Hotelier of the Year Award; John Cope, President & CEO
*2007 World Travel Award, California's Leading Spa Resort
*SpaFinder's 2007 Reader's Choice Award, top 10 urban hotel spas in the world
*UltimateHotels.com Top 50 Great Restaurants in San Francisco, Big 4 Restaurant named one of the 50 greatest restaurants in the city for 2007
*Frommer's San Francisco Day by Day, Best Spa - Nob Hill Spa
*Elite Meetings Advisory Board, Elite Meetings Excellence Award
*Wine Spectator Award of Excellence 2006 & 2007, Big 4 Restaurant voted among the most refined restaurants in San Francisco
*Travel and Leisure's 2005 Award, as one of the world's 500 greatest hotels
*Travel and Leisure's 2004 Award, 100 best hotels in North America
*Condé Nast Traveler's 2003 Gold List, as one of the best places to stay worldwide
With its breathtaking perspective of the Bay Area, this San Francisco hotel is one of few remaining places in which the fast pace of city life gives way to understated elegance and discretion. Seated on one of the city's highest hills, this San Francisco luxury hotel provides superlative views of the skyline or Huntington Park. From its unique position atop the prestigious Nob Hill, this elegant San Francisco hotel offers leisure and business travelers the perfect location.
As a full-service, four-diamond property with a strong tradition of hospitality, this San Francisco luxury hotel provides service with the grace of yesteryear – right alongside today's most modern amenities. Treat yourself to the premier choice of San Francisco hotels, where timeless charm meets contemporary style.
The Ovation Preferred Hotel Partners Program rate at Huntington Hotel & Nob Hill Spa is $255 (compared to a corporate rate of $315).
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Ovation Corporate Travel
www.ovationtravel.com
info@ovationtravel.com
800.431.1112 |
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