Wednesday 30 April 2008

Important Things to Remember About Hotels and Traveling when Going to Asia

If you are like me, you prefer some of each. On the one hand, because I have found myself someplace unusual to me, I stretch out and travel to some local attractions. On the other hand, if I spend all of my time sprinting from this monument to that amusement park, when I make it home I will have to have a second vacation to heal. No matter what your ideal vacation looks like, this article will help you move in the right direction when planning your trip to Asia.


The first thing which you should do is resolve as much up front as you can. That means stuff like interchanging currency when necessary, memorizing maps of the vicinity, renting a means of transportation (did someone say Harley?), reserving a flight, and finding a hotel that meets your needs. Fortunately, all of these undertakings have become more convenient and cheaper through the internet, so before contacting a travel agent, you might save some cash by examining deals on the internet.


When it comes to getting a hotel, remember to look around cautiously. Some items to consider might be how it ranks; is it a 2 star hotel or a 4 star one? Is it conveniently located? If you are traveling to Disneyland but the hotel you reserved is in San Diego, you will waste a substantial amount of your journey driving. How long are you planning on being at the hotel, and if you are going to be there, what sorts of comforts do they furnish? I'll never forget the time I went out on vacation to relax by the hotel pool, only to discover that the property I was at didn't have one. I am sure that I must have appeared odd walking around the hotel with my inflatable ducky around my waist and no pool to be found.


The next item to consider is what to pack. The general rule-of-thumb is not to go overboard. Keep it simple, traveler. Begin by familiarizing yourself with the average temperature so that you know what your system should pack, but avoid over-packing. Remember, if you forget something, odds are that you can purchase a replacement. I suggest packing older clothing which can be discarded along the way. Depending on where you are, you may discover charities that would be happy to take clothing off of your hands.Besides, this can make additional room for treasures.


When it comes to entertainment, avoid getting too out-of-control. For instance, don't pack more than one book. If you are able to read an entire book, give that one away and go buy another one. It's time to get out and go to the store anyway, you bookworm. Instead, bring something to take notes with and write your own book. This does not necessarily mean the company laptop. Do not use this rule as an excuse to bring your work with you. If at all possible, leave every thought of work behind when you travel. Though it might seem awkward at first, pencil and paper work fine for taking notes.


Two significant items to consider packing are Pepto-Bismol, in case something does not agree with you, and hand sanitizer; the kind that doesn't require water. Remember this, no matter what situation you find yourself of, don't let the sanitizer replace taking a shower.


When you are going to Asia, you and your family should carry lots of what you need for picture taking. If you are old-school and still use 35mm film, consider converting to a digital camera. With a digital camera, I can see what I am taking as I go along. The only things I need are batteries and memory space. Now that you can get a wonderful digital camera for under $200, the excuses you have are dwindling. Most tourist destinations have places that will transfer your photos from your memory card to a CD, allowing for you to take even more pictures to torture family and friends with when you come home.


I cannot stress enough the value in keeping things elementary. Prepare yourself wisely by taking care of all the details you can ahead of time. When planning to travel, remember, the internet is your friend. Pack, plan, and keep entertainment basic to help make sure that your vacation to Asia is a relaxing and memorable one. I hope that these words of advice will become good to you as you prepare to start on your vacation.


http://www.articlecity.com/articles/travel_and_leisure/article_2078.shtml

7 Ways to Save on Hotels

If you're the type of traveler who just wants a decent place to hang your hat and you don't want to spend a fortune to do it, here are seven ways to save on your next hotel room:


Be flexible

Hotel rates are based on supply and demand, so be aware of peak periods. If your destination's high season is from December through April and you're trying to book near the end of April, you might find considerable savings if you change your travel dates by a week or two. Also, keep in mind that at many properties you'll be charged peak-season rates for your entire stay even if you straddle the dates between peak and nonpeak seasons. So ask when rates go down.


Use your frequent-flier miles

If you have a credit card that allows you to earn frequent-flier miles for purchases, contact the company (or visit its Web site) and ask about hotel deals or promotions during the time you'll be traveling. Also check with any airlines for which you have frequent-flier miles. Web sites such as WebFlyer.com track current promotions and offer tips about maximizing your miles.


Check hotel web sites

The large travel-booking Web sites often sell rooms from consolidators who have bought up empty hotel rooms. But the major hotel chains also offer last-minute discounts, and because they're not paying the middleman (the consolidators), they sometimes have better deals than the travel sites.


Don't be afraid to haggle

Most people are so intimidated by know-it-all hotel desk clerks that they don't try bargaining for a better deal. But negotiating for a better deal is often worth the trouble, because most hotel general managers would prefer having a customer paying a lower-than-usual rate to no customer at all. And if you find something on your hotel bill that you feel is unfair -- such as an outrageously high phone charge -- don't be afraid to complain about this either. To keep your goodwill, hotels will often reduce or eliminate such charges.


Look for weekend deals at business hotels

High-end chain properties that cater to businesspeople are often busy only on weekdays. To fill up rooms on weekends, such hotels often drop their rates dramatically on weekends. Because many of these places are in leisure destinations such as San Diego, Palm Springs, and Miami, they're worth considering even if you're not traveling on business.


Make an online bid

Depending on the destination, you can save 30 percent or more off a hotel's regular rates by using bidding sites such as Priceline or Hotwire. You choose one or more levels of quality (e.g., two-star or three-star properties) and one or more neighborhoods or cities and then make your bid. You'll know within minutes if it was accepted (by which time your credit card will have already been charged). One strategy that experienced bidders employ is to target areas on the fringes of popular destinations such as the California Wine Country and Orlando. You can often get a good deal by doing this and still wind up fairly well situated.


Avoid hidden costs

Pricey little extras that hotels never mention can significantly increase the cost of your stay. Don't let this happen. Find out about resort fees, fees for parking, Internet use, safe-deposit boxes and fitness centers before you agree to stay. And don't touch the hotel's phone unless you absolutely have to -- the rates at many large properties can be more than $2 a minute even inside the United States. Also, don't book yourself into a hotel that has amenities, such as business centers or in-room fax machines, you don't need, because the cost of providing them is factored into your room rate.


http://www.articlecity.com/articles/travel_and_leisure/article_2107.shtml

Tuesday 29 April 2008

The Shangri La Hotel in Sydney, Australia


One of the finest hotels in downtown Sydney, Australia is the Shangri La. The hotel is positioned between the gorgeous Sydney Opera House and the Harbor Bridge. Guests can enjoy the Sydney experience in the Shangri La's sumptuous comfort and style in this five star property.

The Shangri La is located in the historic Rocks district which was the colonial birthplace of Sydney. The area offers a huge variety of restaurants, bars and pubs as well as great shopping.

The Central Business district is walking distance from the hotel as well as major shopping facilities and tourist attractions. The ferry and jet cat terminal, Circular Quay, the train and bus stations and the famous Opera House are all near.

The views in all the rooms are stunning. The entire double glazed floor to ceiling windows offers the best of Sydney's picturesque views. These beautiful windows let you watch the bustling of the city, the harbor activity and the iconic Sydney Opera House.

The rooms are equipped with broadband internet access with computer data ports. There are high end telephones with voice mail, an electronic safe, mini bar and coffee making facilities. Each room has a full size executive writing desk with a cable TV and in-house movie channels.

The Shangra La provides each guest with impeccable service and facilities to match. Their principle is that each and every one of their guests experience five star treatments throughout their stay. Their amenities match that goal. There is 24 hour room service, butler service in the suites and a delicatessen and pastry shop. The business traveler is afforded a full functional business center, postal service and conference rooms. You can take advantage of airport transfers, limousine service, and car rentals or city shuttles. For families there is child care services and non smoking rooms. If you need a haircut there is a beauty salon and if you need a bouquet for a special occasion pop into their florists.

Health and beauty are taken seriously at the Shangra La. Both the spa and beauty centers offer a wide arrangement of treatments to pamper and relax you. Their pool is complimentary for all guests. It is a roman style pool and spa that will help you unwind and refresh. The gym has state of the art equipment if you feel the need to work off some steam or just take a walk around the sundeck for a peaceful experience.

The bar at the top of the Shangra La has stunning views of all of Sydney. Take advantage of their close proximity to The Rocks and tour around, stop at a pub or dine in one of their fantastic restaurants. One of the best seafood restaurants in the Rocks is Doyle's on the Beach. They have been serving quality seafood since 1885. It is a family run business located right on Watson's Bay with great views of the water. The atmosphere is casual and the clientele varied. It is a bit expensive but the food and the view is worth it. It is best to make a reservation.

One of the finest hotels in downtown Sydney, Australia is the Shangri La. The hotel is positioned between the Gorgeous Sydney Opera House and the Harbor Bridge. Guests can enjoy the Sydney experience in the Shangri La's sumptuous comfort and style in this five star property.

The Shangri La is located in the historic Rocks district which was the colonial birthplace of Sydney. The area offers a huge variety of restaurants, bars and pubs as well as great shopping.

The Central Business district is walking distance from the hotel as well as major shopping facilities and tourist attractions. The ferry and jet cat terminal, Circular Quay, the train and bus stations and the famous Opera House are all near.

The views in all the rooms in the Shangri La are stunning. The entire double glazed floor to ceiling windows offers the best of Sydney's picturesque views. These beautiful windows let you watch the bustling of the city, the harbor activity and the iconic Sydney Opera House.

The rooms are equipped with broadband internet access with computer data ports. There are high end telephones with voice mail, an electronic safe, mini bar and coffee making facilities Each room has a full size executive writing desk with a cable TV and in-house movie channels.

The Shangri La provides each guest with impeccable service and facilities to match. Their principle is that each and every one of their guests experience five star treatments throughout their stay. Their amenities match that goal. There is 24 hour room service, butler service in suites and a delicatessen and pastry shop.

The business traveler is afforded a full functional business center, postal service and conference rooms. You can take advantage of airport transfers, limousine service, and car rental or city shuttles. For families there is child care services and non smoking rooms. If you need a haircut there is a beauty salon and if you need a bouquet for a special occasion pop into their florists.

Health and beauty are taken seriously at the Shangri La. Both the spa and beauty centers offer a wide arrangement of treatments to pamper and relax you. Their pool is complimentary for all guests. It is a roman style pool and spa that will help you unwind and refresh. The gym has state of the art-of-the-art equipment if you feel the need to work off some steam or just take a walk around the sundeck for a peaceful experience.

The bar at the top of the Shangri La has stunning views of all of Sydney. Take advantage of their close proximity to The Rocks and tour around, stop at a pub or dine in one of their fantastic restaurants. One of the best seafood restaurants in the Rocks is Doyle's on the Beach. They have been serving quality seafood since 1885. It is a family run business located right on Watson's Bay with great views of the water. The atmosphere is casual and the clientele varied. It is a bit expensive but the food and the view is worth it. It is best to make a reservation.

If you are looking for a first class hotel while staying in Sydney, you won't do better than the Shangri La. The hotel is beautifully appointed, with an impeccable staff and a perfect location. Everything that will give you a G'day mate!

Copyright © Mary Hanna, All Rights Reserved.

This article may be distributed freely on your website and in your ezines, as long as this entire article, copyright notice, links and the resource box are unchanged.

http://www.articlecity.com/articles/travel_and_leisure/article_2801.shtml

Why Use the Hotel Safe?

Many of us are not as paranoid as we should be about our belongings while we’re on vacation. Stolen items are a frequent occurrence, however—even in the best of hotels. The good news is that if you’ve picked a good hotel, you should be provided with a private, in-room hotel safe. Here are seven reasons why you should always make use of that safe for your belongings—especially the expensive ones—while you’re on holiday.

Because wages can be low in many countries—and your digital camera can look tempting. Depending on the country you’re travelling in, wages could be very low compared to what we make in the U.K.—as low as a few pounds of less per day. Valuables such as digital cameras and jewellery can occasionally provide a compelling temptation for the odd less honest hotel staff, and this can happen at even the nicest of hotels. If the price they could get for your valuables could provide a few months’ worth of wages its not difficult to see you need to take precautions. If you want to help people in less fortunate countries, research charities and make a healthy donation of your own free will—don’t let your contribution be inadvertent.

Because British passports are valuable on the black market. British passports are at a premium in some countries. Many people who do business in false passports often actually use real ones stolen from travellers. Pickpockets are as much of a problem elsewhere as they are in London, so it’s not necessarily safest to keep your passport on you at all times. It’s vital when you’re in a foreign country to keep your passport under lock and key.

Because you’re not the only one with a key to your room. The cleaning staff has a key. The concierge has a key. With all these extra keys, who knows who could be in your room when you’re out? Knowing this, it’s best to protect your valuables from anyone who comes into your room.

Because you could get the sack if you don’t. If you’re on a business trip, chances are you have along some expensive equipment—a laptop, a BlackBerry, company equipment to demonstrate, etc. If your company’s property comes back damaged—or doesn’t come back at all—you could be the one who gets the blame. Prevent anything so drastic from happening by using the hotel safe to protect your company’s valuables.

Because leaving money on your nightstand is like asking for someone to take it. And not necessarily with the intention of robbing you. Cleaning staff could think you’re leaving them a tip if you leave out a few bills on your nightstand, dresser, or countertop. Tipping is the polite thing to do when you’re staying in a hotel, but make sure you do it intentionally.

When we travel, we often carry more money with us than we would at home—in the form of cash or travellers’ cheques. But you don’t want to carry all that money on you in a new city—it’s too easy to be robbed or pick pocketed. And it’s not safe to leave it sitting out on your dresser, either. Keep your money in the hotel safe, and you’ll have much more peace of mind while you’re out exploring.

Because identity theft can happen anywhere. If you’ve brought credit cards, a social security card, a passport, a cheque book, or any other personal documents with you, don’t leave them where others can see them—including out in plain view in your room. It’s easy for someone to get hold of your room key—there are so many copies floating around the hotel, after all—and copy down your pertinent information without taking a thing. You’ll never know your identity was stolen until you start getting bills for things you didn’t buy. Play it safe and use that hotel safe—it’s there to protect you.

Even the most perfectly planned dream holiday can turn into a nightmare if you get robbed. So don’t make yourself an easy target. Use all the safety precautions at your disposal, including your hotel safe.

http://www.articlecity.com/articles/travel_and_leisure/article_2826.shtml

Monday 28 April 2008

Thailand: homestays and villas vs. hotels


More and more people today seek fulfilling holidays at cheaper rates. The days of booking holidays at a local travel agent and disappearing on a package tour are dwindling, as vacationers turn to the internet to seek alternatives.

Renting a private house is becoming more and more common as visitors seek authenticity, privacy, independence, and originality whilst on holiday. And if such a stay also offers the possibility of direct interaction with the locals and costs less than a hotel stay, the attractions are manifold.

In Thailand,more and more properties are now available for direct rent from their owners on a daily or weekly basis. Thailand’s real estate boom has helped develop the number of villas and holiday homes available. It is in general a pity that these properties still tend to be huddled together in the mass tourism markets of Pattaya, Phuket, and Koh Samui, which somewhat defeats the original attractions of an independent holiday home.

However, looking more closely, it is not difficult to narrow down one’s search and to locate private properties for rent at highly attractive rates in original destinations. And in accordance with the Thais’ legendary hospitality, these villas are even occasionally rented out more as if friends – rather than paying guests - were being accommodated: meals are cooked for you, transport arranged, and invitations made to local ceremonies or festivals. In short, the Thais have realized that, whilst some guests may prefer privacy, others seek a genuine interaction at the local level with the country’s inhabitants, as they seek a memorable local experience instead of a manufactured stay.

Our exploration of Thailand’s holiday home rentals led us to several very different properties, and clearly, whilst the supply is not huge, the attractions of these homes, the hospitality of the Thais, the zing of the delicious food and the promise of sun all make these properties a marvelous holiday alternative.

We particularly enjoyed our stay at “Gecko Villa”. From the outset, their comprehensive website ( http://www.geckovilla.com) gave full details of the property, with numerous photographs and an online availability checker. Our email reservation was responded to rapidly, and helpful suggestions made about getting to the destination.

Upon arrival we were met at the airport by the smiling owners and driven to the large house that was set in the middle of emerald rice paddies, sugar cane plantations and woodlands. The property was set on extensive grounds guaranteeing privacy by our own pool, and the bedrooms and facilities all lived up to or surpassed what we had seen described on the internet. The kitchen showed up our own kitchen at home, and the shower garden in the master bedroom was a delightful touch.

When we said we loved Thai food, we were delighted to be taken off around the grounds to pick our own herbs and spices – including strange plants that we had never considered using in the pot – before being shown how to make genuine Thai and Northeaster dishes. The owners seemed genuinely pleased to be able to impart their knowledge and love of food – and we were equally happy to have this cooking lesson provided at no cost!

The property was fully serviced and the rate we paid covered all our meals and even generous quantities of cool beer and fresh fruit juices. And as we were there in the mango season, we were encouraged to simply help ourselves to the fresh fruit straight from the trees…

It was rare to find a house deep in the Thai countryside, and truly off the beaten tourist track, that offered every comfort for a relaxing stay in the real Thailand. The Visitors’ Book was full of glowing comments and the many repeat guests bore testimony to the visitors’ enjoyment of their stays, not only because of the property itself but because of the genuine welcome they received.

Tips on booking holiday homes:

• Try to book directly with the property site. Searches tend to list global villa rental sites that generally take a commission on your stay, making it more expensive, and in some cases try to prevent you from contacting the owners directly.

• Look for an individual property rather than a house in a villa development. The latter are often managed by hotel groups and simply glorified hotel rooms – at hotel rates!

• Travel in the off season, but book early. Better rates can generally be found for travel out of the tourist seasons, but do make sure you book ahead, as when a standalone villa is booked, it is booked!

• Make sure the property you choose has a telephone and address listed.

• Travel somewhere new! Much of the fun of your own holiday house is the way it can take you out of the tourist centres to enjoy a more authentic holiday.

Airlines

Thai Airways, Thailand’s flag carrier offers numerous domestic flights, but savvy travelers will turn to the local discount airlines. These offer frequent flights at a fraction of the price and in relative comfort. Try Nok Air ( http://www.nokair.com) or Air Asia (http://www.airasia.com).

http://www.articlecity.com/articles/travel_and_leisure/article_2880.shtml

Hotels India are Fantastic


Well known all over the world for its ethnicity and culture the country of India is a dream destination for many foreign visitors and tourists. India is the largest country in the Indian Subcontinent and shares boundaries with China and Nepal to the north, Pakistan to the west, Bhutan to the north-east, Sri Lanka, the Maldives and Indonesia lie to the south-east and Bangladesh and Myanmar to the east. If its land size is anything to go by, India is the seventh largest country in the world. Its multi-lingual and multi-ethnic cultural life is what appeals to the foreign masses. Handicrafts of India are yet another favorite of the foreigners who visit the country. Each state of India has its own distinctive style and specialty and produces myriads of handiwork. Since scores of visitors and tourists pay visits to India every year, Hotels India make sure that they offer the best of lodging experience to their lodgers. Leaving no stone unturned Hotels India makes the best of your holiday.


Taj Mahal, Agra

One of the Seven Wonders of the World the Taj Mahal appeals to the mass for its distinctive charm and the love tale behind it. The Taj was commissioned by Emperor Shah Jahan for his second wife, Mumtaz Mahal, who died in childbirth in the year 1631. Made entirely out of White marble, this famous monument is the pride of India and is visited by millions of tourist and visitors each year.


Khajuraho temples

The temples of Khajuraho were constructed during the Chandela period. The temples are among the best illustration of Indo-Aryan architecture style. The carving and sculptures in and around the temple is what makes it so exquisite. Around the temple walls are masonries depicting different and several aspects of Indian life many ages ago - deities, warriors, and musicians, real and mythological animals among many others.


Backwaters of Kerala

Stupendously beautiful, the backwater of Kerala is basically a network of lakes, lagoons, rivers and canals. A visit to the state of Kerala is incomplete without savoring the beauty of its backwaters. A day spent in the houseboat sailing on the waters will make you feel like royalty.


Ajanta Caves

Dating back to from around 200 B.C, the Buddhist caves of Ajanta is among the best tourist attractions in India. The notable depictions and paintings on the temple walls are so beautiful that it has got this site a place in the UNESCO's World Heritage Site list.


Mountain Railways of India

These offer excellent views of the natural beauty of Indian hill station. A great way to not only travel around but also to admire the mighty mountainous regions these hill passenger railways date back since the British colonial era. The two famous mountain railways are- the Nilgiri Mountain Railway and the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway.


The country of India makes for a great tourist destination. From pretty attractions, exciting places of interest to the amazing festivals... there is a lot to see and experience in India. Accommodation in India is easy to find. Hotels in India fall in many categories like cheap hotels India, amazing, luxurious hotels and mid rage accommodations.


Author is an associate editor of stayresindia.com. The website offers exclusive information of online reservation of Hotel in India We also provide information about reservation of Best Hotels in India


Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Gagan_Makin

Sunday 27 April 2008

Luxury Hotels In Spain


So you are traveling to Spain and planning to visit Barcelona while you are there, but the thought of staying in a noisy, busy, city centre hotel leaves you cold? Don’t worry, there are other options when it comes to Barcelona hotels, and the following couple of suggestions should make for a mush more relaxed trip.

The first suggestion is to try one of the superb four star hotels at the Port Aventura theme park, only a short distance outside the centre, rather than a hotel in Barcelona city itself. It is possible to get a dedicated transfer from Barcelona’s main airport, directly to the theme park, which will drop you right outside your hotel. Of course, you can always hire a car and drive yourself to the theme park, and if you do, remember that Europcar have special arrangements with the Port Aventura hotels to ensure you get the best deal.

The four hotels available each have their own particular character and are decorated and furnished to a very high level. Whichever you choose you will be guaranteed a luxurious visit. If you are looking for classic Mediterranean style you might try the Portaventura hotel, whilst for something a little different, the El Paso hotel has a Mexican theme. If you are after sheer indulgence and the chance to sunbath by the pool on pure white sand, The Hotel Caribe is for you.

As well as bed and breakfast, the very reasonable prices charged by the Port Aventura hotels also include entrance to the theme park and the Caribe Aquatic Centre. Even during the summer months, an expensive period for all hotels in Spain, a night in the hotel with two days in the theme park is just over two hundred euros for a single, and less than one hundred and fifty per person for a double. To reduce the cost even further, you can have a room for up to four people. Out of season, when it is still possible to enjoy good weather in this region, two people could pay less than one hundred euros.

If you want to be a little closer to Barcelona city centre, but are still looking for a luxurious option, away from the crowds of La Rambla, you should check into the Arts Hotle, which offers an incredible sea front location with views over the whole Marina and port area. This is a place to really be pampered, and any of the spacious rooms, suites or split-level apartments, offer an uneatable standard of accommodation. The real gem in this hotel is the Goyescas restaurant, were the extensive menu includes local specialties as well as international cuisine. If you are having trouble deciding between the mouthwatering dishes, a recommendation from the friendly staff may help you make up you mind. They will even tell you the perfect wine to accompany your meal.

So as you can see, it is perfectly possible to enjoy the cultural and historical sights of Barcelona, without having to stay right in the bustling city centre. After a hard day’s sightseeing you return to a calm relaxing oasis, just a short ride away.

http://www.articlecity.com/articles/travel_and_leisure/article_2860.shtml

Liverpool Hotels Review


The hotel market in Liverpool, European Capital of Culture 2008 has come a long way over the past decade. The number of bedrooms in the city has doubled since 1999, and the standard of accommodation has improved considerably.

Many of the cities established properties have been extensively refurbished including the Great George Hotel which was acquired by Centre Island Hotels in 2000 and is now the Holiday inn Liverpool City Centre, and the famous Britannia Adelphi Hotel which is presently undergoing a multimillion pound refurbishment which will see the existing property completely refurbished and the addition of a new conference and banqueting suite with capacity for up to 800 delegates.

In addition to this there has been a raft of new openings in the city across all market sectors, including the Marriott Liverpool City Centre, Crowne Plaza Hotel, Radisson SAS Hotel, Express by Holiday Inn Liverpool Albert Dock, and most recently the Hope Street and Malmaison Hotels in the city centre.

In addition to this, Liverpool John Lennon Airport has seen two new openings in the form of the Marriott Liverpool South which is located in the old airport building and the Express By Holiday Inn Liverpool John Lennon Airport which is located en route to the new airport terminal.

Hotel room rates and occupancy in the city have grown steadily over the previous five years, with hotels in Liverpool now experiencing a Revpar in excess £67.00 across all market segments, with much higher averages been recorded at the top end of the market. Occupancy has also grown steadily and is now in excess of 70%.

2007 will see the launch of a number of exciting new hotel projects in the city, including proposals to build the cities first five star hotel at Princes Dock, and the launch of the much awaited Beatles themed Hard Days Night Hotel. More exciting launches are planned for 2008 and beyond, with global operators including Jurys Doyle, Thistle and Guoman, and BDL Staybridge all currently working on projects in the city.

What is for sure is that the hotel market in Liverpool is constantly evolving into an ever more challenging and rewarding environment for the cities operators, from large chains to independent operators, all of whom are working hard to successfully maintain and develop their market share.

To view an extensive range of the hotels now available in Liverpool please visit Liverpool Hotels at http://www.liverpool-hotels.net/

http://www.articlecity.com/articles/travel_and_leisure/article_1440.shtml

Saturday 26 April 2008

Hotel Safety Tips When Traveling with Babies or Children

In all the excitement of the vacation, make sure you teach your kids some basic safety steps, so your holiday doesn't turn into a nightmare.


* They absolutely cannot open the door on their own, and go traipsing down the hallway.


* They must not open the door without checking with you first.


* The "don't talk to strangers" rule applies to hotels too.


* No matter how safe and friendly the staff seems, don't let anyone to take them get too friendly with them.


Make sure that your room is free from the umpteen hazards that lurk in hotel rooms. Check to make sure curtain cords are tucked safely out of reach. These can pose a danger of strangulation for younger kids.


In the bathroom, keep smaller bottles of shampoos and lotions on a higher shelf.


Remember to test the hot water in the hotel bathroom. Many hotels have very hot water that can burn or scald a child. At the least you will be able to make sure your child doesn't go into the bathroom alone, or for older kids, you can warn them about the water.


If your kids are small enough to be sharing the room with you, make sure you don't take out your prescription medicines, and arrange them on your bathroom shelf right next to the sink like you do at home. New surroundings mean no rules; all medicines go onto a top shelf.


If your kids are older, make sure they know where the fire exits are. It's one of the most important things to do when you're in unfamiliar surroundings. Many parents ignore this vital information, and it can have dangerous consequences.


Make sure your kids don't use the phone to make calls. Hotels are notorious for adding hefty charges to any phone calls you make.


Not all hotels will have safe cribs, especially if you're traveling abroad. Check beforehand to make sure that your hotel crib meets the standard safety requirements of American cribs.


It's easy to ignore safety rules and precautions in all the joy and excitement of a holiday. A little care and some caution will make your trip a safe and hassle free one for the whole family.


This author lives in Flemington, NJ with her husband and 5 month old daughter and is an expert contributing author for a luxury baby shower party favors boutique offering variety of baby shower favors, coffee baby shower favors, handprint footprint kits and more. This author and Babygiftstation is also dedicated to providing valuable and informative articles on childcare, baby safety tips, pregnancy health, parenting, potty training and more.


Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Caroline_Miller

Friday 25 April 2008

Vienna Austria - Good Place To Visit


Vienna is one of the largest city of Austria. Vienna is in the east of the country of the river Dnaube. It is also an administrative district. Many old buildings, churches and museums are there in this city. In Vienna , Classical music and opera are very famous.


Vienna is also the name of the song about the city, by the British group Ultravox. Vienna has lots of things to offer like Art and Culture, Sports and Relaxation, Pleasure and Recreation. Vienna hotels are good for tourists. alla-lenz -This hotel is located in center of Vienna. They offers you luxury, breakfast, apartment’s accommodations and elegant rooms with internet access. Accommodation in Vienna includes everything from low budget to designer hotels.


Atlantis-hotel -This hotel is located in the heart of the city, between the State opera and St. Stephan’s Cathedral.This hotel offers 118 comfortable rooms, all are equipped with a bath or shower, WC, hair dryer, telephone, cable-TV, Pay-TV and minibar. Antique furniture . All hotels provides you best services. If you are looking for a well furnished hotel then go to this hotel Austrotel-hotel -The staff of his hotel is friendly and always offers good recommendations for sightseeing and dining. Vienna atmosphere is so relaxing and friendly . Everyone enjoyed here a lot.


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Seoul Hotels - Service Beyond Expectation


With its beautiful palaces, great food and a hopping nightlife, Seoul, the capital of South Korea, is a popular city and the political, economic and cultural hub of the country. The name of this city means 'Capital' in Korean language and is by far the largest metropolis in South Korea divided in two parts by Han River running across the city. Seoul is connected to the outside world via various airways that land at the Incheon International Airport. Gimpo airport is another port here located centrally and catering mostly to domestic flights. The railways, Buses/Cars and Boats are other options of reaching this urban center for tourists from other cities. Seoul can be visited any time of the year but holiday periods especially from July to August should be avoided as everything becomes very expensive and crowded during this time. This historic city has retained the hidden past of century old temples, palaces, pagodas and pleasure gardens, which the visitors prefer to see. There are numerous good hotels in Seoul that are used for accommodating the visitors every year.


Seoul has some of the interesting sightseeing spots that can not be missed out during your visit to this city. Insa-Dong is one such place where you can experience the traditional culture of Korea in its art galleries, craft stores, antique houses, tea houses, restaurants etc. Gyeongbok-gung Palace, which was the main residence and palace of the royal family during Joseon Dynasty, is another premier attraction of Seoul. Mount Namsan is a symbolic mountain located in the center of Seoul and offer fantastic views of the surrounding areas. Amongst other attractions, Changdeok-gung, Deoksu-gung and ChangGyeong-gung are some of the places to watch out for. The city has a large number of beautiful parks as well, namely, 4.19 Memorial Cemetery, Boramae Park, Olympic Park and so on. Other places to visit include the National Museum of Korea, Seoul Tower, Seodaemun Prison etc. There are a lot of activities that you can enjoy at Seoul like Horse Racing or visit to Everland (the Korean version of Disneyland), Seoul Land Theme Park, or Lotte World Amusement Park. For shopping, there are many street markets and fashion stores including Namdaemun Market, the greatest and an all inclusive market place of South Korea. Dongdaemun Market is another market known as the Mecca of fashion for its huge malls and shopping complexes. Yougsan Electronics Market is an option to shop for electronic goods in Seoul.


Seoul serves its guests with a large number of different hotels including 5 star hotels, boutique hotels, business hotels and so on. Some of the popular luxury hotels in Seoul are namely Park Hyatt, Grand Intercontinental, JW Marriott, Lotte Jamsil, Shilla, Grand Hyatt, Ritz Carlton and Millennium Hilton amongst others. At the same time, there is no scarcity of budget accommodations in this city. Some of the good mid-range and budget hotels available here include President Hotel, Hamilton Hotel, Ibis Hotel Ambassador, Seoul Guest House, and Kims' Guest House etc. Most of the hotels in Seoul are concentrated in different parts of the city like Central Seoul, City Center, Coex, Gimpo Airport Area, Gangseo, Dongdaemun, Jamsil, Suburb and Yeouido amongst other places.


For more details on the Seoul Hotels you can log on to Asiarooms.com, which gives a complete guide on the hotels in Seoul. So go ahead now and reserve your hotel to get the best hotel deal with Asiarooms.


Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Alexs_Albert

Thursday 24 April 2008

Booking New York Hotels As Per Your Pick

It is a known fact that New York is regarded as one of the liveliest and happening destinations of United States. Hence it proves to be one of the most visited places and the most famous tourist destination. Moreover this top attractive tourist spot is also a cosmopolitan in true sense. This is with reference to the multi-ethnicity which is basically composed of people from more than one hundred and eighty different countries. At times, when the season is on, it becomes quite a daunting task to acquire and accommodation at the New York hotels. There is an extensive range of hotels scattered around in different parts of the New York City.


Luxury hotels in New York that surpass customers' expectations are the ones that go about providing them with special recreational facilities where tourists can simply let everything go and have a nice time. The outdoor pool at the luxury hotels is one of the best hang outs. The most visited places in the hotel include a grand tour to shopping arcades and eating joints. The staff at these hotels are extremely helpful and would go beyond their way to help their customers in every way possible. Budget hotels in New York City are simply reasonably priced. Certainly most of the rooms that are done up in the discount hotels in New York come with a centrally placed air-conditioned, attached baths, carpeting and are equipped with direct dial telephone, refrigerator, bars, balcony, rooftop and scenic views.


Simply choose to get online and make prior reservation in order to be left with no option later on. There are several online booking sites that give great discounts as they are directly associated with the hotels and there are no middlemen involved so the extra cost is reduced to a considerable level.


Hotels2Stay.Net welcomes you to book Luxury hotels in New York and Budget hotels in New Yorkdiscount hotels with us. It is an online hotel reservation portal for worldwide hotels. So book hotels at your preferred location and enjoy your stay at Luxury hotels or


Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Megha_Poddar

Top 5 Mistakes to Avoid When Making Hotel Reservation Online

Vigilance, when making online hotel reservation - just like patience - is a virtue and has its own rewards.


How would you react to an online hotel reservation gone wrong that could cause you to wait in the lobby of a hotel, later into the office of the manager, anxiously pass the time for any favorable developments, otherwise you would have no other option but to hail a taxicab that would transport you to yet another hotel? Worse, this could happen to you overseas - 45,000 miles away from home!


Jimmy Craig, a young Computer Engineer from Minnesota, was a frequent flyer and about 80% of his travel arrangements were done online. His job was, without doubt, financially rewarding as his salary and the perks that went with it were the highest in the industry, but his frequent travels, away from his young family were just too much to bear. Worse, not only once, but twice, Jimmy found himself in precarious situations because of his travels. At least one of these misadventures was due to an erroneous online hotel reservation.


How then would you ensure your own hotel reservation, done online, safe from the most common mistakes that Jimmy could have avoided, had he been more vigilant?


Here are top 5 mistakes you should avoid, not only when making hotel reservation online, but every time you prepare for travel:


· Failure to comparison-shop. Unless you deal with a reliable company that has proven track record, you should investigate and compare at least 2-3, or even more options before you send in your details for a hotel reservation.


Compare not just hotel rates, although most frequently, travelers focus on these. Check out hotel amenities as well, including special deals or discounts. Be wary of "hidden costs", such as penalties and taxes.


Most importantly, find out more about the company that provides online hotel reservation service. You may find similar companies on the internet and compare their services, as well as the benefits they provide their online clients.


· Failure to ask details about your hotel accommodation. It is often ironic how simple things can be taken for granted. When you make your hotel reservation online, don't hesitate to inquire about the amenities and service that go with your hotel of choice, including details of your accommodation, such as type of room, airport pick-up assistance, or the total customer care that you could expect from the management and staff of the hotel.


· Failure to check your travel itineraries yourself. Allow at least a day or two before your actual travel date to check on your itinerary to avoid errors on the last minute, just to make sure that you have everything you need for a safer and a more convenient trip.


When you make online hotel reservation, find out the names and telephone numbers of your contact persons as this information can become handy when emergencies arise, as they sometimes do, when you least expect them.


· Failure to check on cancellation and refund policies. Include also change in reservation policy, should there be last minute changes in your trip. Knowing these before you travel can better equip you in what to expect, and how you would respond to problems when they occur.


· Failure to check on security policy. Check on the privacy statement of the website servicing your online hotel reservation. You would want to make sure that your credit card details are secured; ensure that the company's website have security software in place that will shun scammers on the internet.


In conclusion, the internet has helped shorten the queues in hotel lobbies, saved time and cut on costs however vigilance should be maintained to ensure that when online hotel reservation is made, it is facilitated by a secured website, backed by an equally reputable and competent company.


Christiene Villanueva is a professional online marketer and copywriter. She has traveled extensively, and has long used the services of Hotels.bz for all her online travel and hotel reservations, at her utmost satisfaction.


Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Christiene_C_Villanueva

Wednesday 23 April 2008

How To Find A Great Bangkok Hotel


If you are interested in and visiting the city a Bangkok, you know doubt will need someplace to stay. For those that have ever been in the city before, they will be able to tell you that there is so much to do that it is often impossible to do at all within a short vacation time. Other people need to travel there for business as there is a quite a lot of business transactions that take part in the study. Don't let all of the trip be about business, however, as you are sure to find something that will please you in some way or another while you are there.


Finding a Bangkok hotel that fits into exactly with what you need is not going to be too much of a challenge. Because so many people tend to visit this particular city, there is a wide variety of hotels that are available to suit almost any need. From luxury hotels in the downtown area to other hotels that are scattered throughout the city, it is easy for you to get near to the action or to be close to any business that must be taken care of while you're in the city.


Make sure, however, that you don't spend all of your time in your Bangkok hotel sleeping at night. The city offers a nightlife that is fantastic and gives you plenty of options for enjoying your time out in the evenings. From clubs to different bars, Bangkok certainly can excite the senses. As a matter of fact, the city has quite a reputation for being wild and somewhat rowdy as far as the nightlife is concerned. It certainly is not something that you would want to do in a family type environment but by having a Bangkok hotel close to the action, you may be able to enjoy a little bit of this on your own.


Although there are many different places in the world that you can visit, staying in a Bangkok hotel offers used so many different options that it is difficult to choose someplace else. If having plenty of things to do during the day and a nightlife that is exciting and never ends are things that are important to you on a vacation, then this city is exactly what you need in order to get away from it all and enjoy yourself.


To book a hotel in Thailand, Bangkok, Samui, Pattaya, Chiang Mai, Phuket or anywhere around Thailand, please visit http://www.Accommodation-Thailand.com You can view photos of all the hotels, view comments from people who have stayed there and book securely through our website.


Leigh has worked with Fortune 500 companies including EMC, Telstra, OneSteel, BlueScope Steel, I.B.M, Mazda, Toshiba, Ipex, NEC, Ernst Young and Acer as well as working in Australia, United Kingdom, Canada and India.


Leigh has travelled extensively in and around Thailand, and now recommends accommodation options to first-time and seasoned travellers to Thailand.


Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Leigh_Burke

Tokyo's Luxury Hotels - Accommodating You In Tokyo


The craze for Tokyo among tourists seem to be catching on in Japan, for it is a gold mine of intriguing attractions and it accommodates all the passionate visitors in the background of subtle facilities. There are Tokyo's luxury hotels that every now and then keep boasting about their procurements and keep instigating tourists to get their acts together so as to lap up the real splendor of Tokyo. And this can be done only by coming over to this bustling region of Japan.


One can easily observe lots of architectural revamping that has been done in this city and with the effect of that, towering buildings can be spotted gracefully brindled over this city. Hotels in Tokyo receive the much-inspired guests who take every measure not to miss out the encompassing destinations like the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park or the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace. Therefore, you can get freaky to any extent if you want to capture the picture of the Mount Fuji amidst the heartily embracing sights comprising of island as well as lake beauty. And with much fervor, you will certainly remember your heartwarming stroll at the East Gardens. So, the above description suggests that whether you are sheltered by the the compelling Park Hyatt or by the mind-blowing Peninsula, no sight of Tokyo can ever elude you. The specialties of Tokyo's Luxury Hotels make it a point to transform every day of your holiday into an enriching memory.


Being a hotel guest doesn't mean that you have to restrict your entire Tokyo tour to the confines of plush apartments. One can instinctively develop the inclination to throng the hang-outs like restaurants that can deliver you with numerous scrumptious food items. Considering this fact, the place called Roppangi Hills has maintained itself with the overflow of restaurants, entertainment zones as well as plethora of stores that leave all the hotels guests convulsed with loads of satisfaction. Shoppers can also turn their way towards Omotesando, which offers you an exhaustive survey of sophisticated boutiques. And the most captivating area, primarily for foodies is popularly referred as Gizna. One can spot the most happening crowd frequenting this place. Therefore, along with enjoying the fountain at the Imperial Hotel Tokyo or slobbering over the five-star equipments of the Intercontinental Tokyo Bay, you have the truly absorbing scenes that constitute the charm that we relate Tokyo with.


On the other hand, people interested in checking out the holy places will definitely admire the spots like Meiji Shrine or the Sensoji Temple. All the hotels in Tokyo receive a value raise when such sights become the places without which tourists just can't adjust and get satisfied.


Make AsiaRooms your final reference manual to get comprehensible information on all the Tokyo luxury hotels.


Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ritu_Raj_Mishra

Tuesday 22 April 2008

Hotel Near Disney World In Orlando - Making the Most Out Of Your Disney Adventure


You really wanted this Disney World vacation this year but you are in a limited budget. You can save more next year but then you think that you might not get the vacation time from your Boss. You really want it now. But how? You need a little bit planning and resourcefulness to do some saving. One of the big expenses is a hotel room and you can do that by looking at the possibility of looking at hotel near Disney World in Orlando. Offsite-hotels might be the answer to your problem.


What are the available hotels?

There are many hotels near Disney World in Orlando ranging at every level of price and quality. Disney World Park has only fifteen official hotels, which are inside the world park. The rest are operated by private establishments and are located outside the park. Admittedly, Disney hotels are much nicer because they offer high standard amenities and excellent services. Additionally, the theme-oriented designs of the hotels are a showcase in themselves. However, they are more expensive.


Disney does not operate the private and independent hotels near Disney World in Orlando. These are more affordable and they also offer nice amenities and extra services. Most of these hotels are only thirty minutes away from Disney World. As an extra service, the hotels can offer free transportation for you and your family to and from the Disney World.


Hotel near Disney World in Orlando are located in Buena Vista, International Boulevard and route 192 in Kissimmee. They are moderately priced ranging from inexpensive (50 to 100 dollars per night. Others can cost as lower than 50 dollars) and expensive (100 to 300 dollars per night).


How to Save More?

Aside from choosing hotel near Disney World in Orlando, you can also avail of more discounts. Majority of the hotels offer discounts to members of selected associations. This can save you a lot of money. Just check with the hotels if they are offering discounts to what kinds of membership. Then there are also entertainment book discounts, which can be checked, online.


Government employees can also avail of government discounts may you be a local, country, or state government employee. Sometimes, government contractors also qualify for this discounts. There are also military discounts for those in the military services. More hotels offer military discounts. For these kinds of discounts, you need to call the hotel if they offer these discounts because they don't post these in their websites. Be sure, also, to have your government and military identification card with you.


There are endless possibilities in getting a cheap hotel for you. You don't have to stay in the expensive Disney hotels to enjoy Disney World. A cheaper hotel near Disney World in Orlando is more affordable and practical - all you need is a little bit of resourcefulness and patience and you can go to Disney World in a budget.


Learn more about where to find Disney World packages by visiting http://www.godisneyworldvacation.com, a popular Disney vacation planning website that offers tips, advice and resources including information on Disney World discounts and tickets so you can have more fun in the park.


Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Charlie_Lee

Top 5 Luxury Beach Resorts in Dubai


If you're looking for a Dubai beach holiday with your own butler, walls covered in gold, no less than five private pools at your disposal and to be surrounded by no-one but the uber-rich, then your every wish will be granted at these hyper-luxurious beach resorts in Dubai.


1) Mina A' Salam

The Mina was the first Dubai beach hotel completed as part of the Madinat Jumeirah resort. Built around 2 miles of Venetian-style waterways filled with abras that ferry guests around the Dubai beach resort, the Mina aims to marry Dubai's modern-day opulence with its old-world architecture.


The sand-coloured buildings making up this Dubai beach hotel are striking on the outside and palatial inside. Each of the 292 sea-facing rooms are styled in keeping with the Arabian theme: heavy studded doors give way to Moorish arches hung with ornate lanterns, and the beds are piled high with exotic dark blue, red and gold fabrics.


But the real hook for this Dubai beach hotel are the large terraces which jut out towards the water, ideal for sitting and sipping a leisurely G 'n' T as the sun goes down on your Dubai beach holiday. With walkways along the harbour, al fresco restaurant terraces and a souk full of lavish boutiques, Mina has a distinctly village feel to it - albeit a village full of those looking for luxury.


2) Le Royal Meridien

This Dubai beach hotel is situated on a pristine stretch of private beach with a stunning view of the Arabian Gulf. It is set in landscaped gardens overlooking the famous Jumeirah beach.


Roses are a big deal at the Royal Meridien. In the rooms of this Dubai beach hotel are finger bowls of water floating with petals to dip the digits; more rose residue scatters the bed and the bathroom has more blooms than a florist on 13 February. Such opulence is typical of Le Meridien's flagship brand and the pools, gardens and great stretch of sand have been sculpted in a timelessly classic style.


Sexy European clients flitter around the upmarket all-beige coffee spaces and bars, and it is doubtful that the pool has seen a full swimsuit in its life. For more decadence, head to the Roman Spa. This hotel is perfect for an indulgently romantic Dubai beach holiday.


3) Jumeirah Beach Hotel

Jumeirah Beach Hotel is a 5-star hotel which opened in 1997. This wave-shaped hotel complements the sail-shaped Burj Al Arab, which stands opposite in the sea. Beside the hotel is the Wild Wadi Water Park, a fantastic Dubai beach holiday destination, to which all guests in the hotel have unlimited access.


When completed in 1997, the Jumeirah Beach Hotel became the 9th tallest building in Dubai. Today, it is ranked lower than the 100th tallest building. Despite its lower rankings, the hotel remains a Dubai landmark.


4) Le Meridien Mina Seyahi

The Le Méridien Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina is set on Jumeirah Beach, opposite Emirates Golf Club and Montgomery Golf Course. This Dubai beach hotel is a boutique-styled luxury beach resort. Dubai's cultural and tourist venues like the Dubai Museum and Gold and Spice Souks are conveniently accessible from the hotel, excellent for Dubai beach holiday outings.


It is outside where the Mina really comes into its own. With over 2,800ft of golden sands, the hotel boasts more beach than any of the other beach resorts in Dubai, and it utilises every inch of it with excellent water sport facilities.


The hotel is great for guests looking for a more active Dubai beach holiday. It features outdoor facilities for up to 5,000 guests, eight restaurants and bars, five outdoor pools and access to a range of sport activities such as water skiing, kayaking, and windsurfing, and a glass-fronted gym that allows you to look out to sea while working out.


5) Burj Al Arab

The Burj Al Arab is a giant-size beach resort in Dubai and, at 321 metres, the tallest building used exclusively as a hotel. However, another Dubai hotel, the Rose Tower, which has already topped Burj Al Arab's height, will take away its title upon its opening in April 2008.


The Burj Al Arab stands on an artificial island 280 metres out from the coast, and is connected to the mainland by a private curving bridge. This lavish Dubai beach hotel is an iconic structure designed to symbolise Dubai's urban transformation and to mimic the sail of a boat.


The world's first (self-described) seven-star hotel, the Burj certainly goes to extremes - which are often ridiculous for most travellers - to please its über-wealthy Dubai beach holiday clientele. Still, set nearly 900 feet out in the Persian Gulf on a man-made island, this sail-shaped icon has come to signify Dubai's tourism ascent since it opened in 1999. The hotel contains more than 20,000 square feet of real gold leaf.


Rosella Colella is a Dubai expert for key2holidays, an online tour operator specialising in Dubai beach holidays, as well as holidays in Australia, Cuba, the Caribbean, Europe, the Far East, the Maldives, Mauritius and the Seychelles, Egypt and Southern Africa. Key2holidays has a dedicated team of experienced travel consultants to share their knowledge and help you to plan and book your ideal holiday.


Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Rosella_Colella

Monday 21 April 2008

Cheap Hotels - Make an Off Season Trip

There is a huge competition among the hospitality industry and the dynamics have changed a lot in the recent past. Though, traveling and staying in the hotels is an expensive affair but could be minimized by staying in the cheap hotels. 'Cheap Hotels' doesn't mean bad hotels but it can be among some of the best hotels at a lower price. If you make a proper research on the Internet, you may find some of the best cheap hotels.

It also doesn't make a sense to book an expensive hotel where we only have to stay in it only for eight hours in a day i.e. only in the night. However, even if you want to stay in luxurious deluxe suite, then also it is advisable to make an off season trip to your destination. At this time you may find that the lodging would be cheaper in comparison to the normal price.


The best way to look for a cheap hotel is the Internet which has now became an effective medium to help you in this regard. Apart from this, the various travel agencies can also help you to find out the cheap hotels for your trip.


There are few hotels which have collaboration with the online travel agencies and they provide them the clients through the online method. The customers can avail a good discount by booking the reservation online as the promotional tactics of these hotels. People who need hotels at the eleventh hour always search for online booking and the hotels also facilitate them with a room with a discount at this time.


To Know more about Travel Agents visit rupizcompare.co.uk

Adam Jaylin provides you the best and latest info on Cheap Hotels and Last Minute Travel Deals


Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Adam_Jaylin

Airport Hotels vs Luxury Hotels

Many of the airport hotels that exist have been forced into making radical adjustments in the way they are run in order to compete with the luxury hotels. It was estimated that the industry as a whole spent about $5.5 billion in 2007 on capital and the airport hotels ranked second to luxury hotels.


The way these airport hotels have started to fight back is by offering more competitive prices. When customers look for cheap hotels, the airport rates appear alongside those of the luxury hotels. There are better rates and deals available recently and this means that the airport hotels can compete again. The airport hotels main selling point is that you do not have to go far once you have landed, this is especially important if you have just been on a long-haul flight when the last thing you want is more travelling.


The main customer segment for the hotel airports are the frequent flyers, however, in the past some said that they would rather sleep on the sofas in the business lounge than stay in the airport hotel but all this has changed now the quality of these hotels has increased immensely. The question is; can airport hotels attract other segments?


Luxury hotels are usually ideally placed for customers to get the most out of their holidays, normally located in or around the centre of city's they are the usual choice for customers. As the airport hotels fight back, the luxury hotels should be able to offer better deals, simply because they have more capital to do so.


There is another option for customers that, although not as big in the market, still attracts a considerable amount of people and they are holiday cottages. These cottages offer the customers something different and are normally located out of the centres and around the more picturesque places. All 3 types are thriving and it will be interesting to see whether they can maintain this growth.


Cheap hotels can be found and the emergence of airport hotels has seen them compete with the luxury hotels. Whether or not holiday cottages can compete with the big 2 in the market will be interesting to see.


Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Karl_Bantleman

Sunday 20 April 2008

Greece Hotels


Greece is one of the best vacation spots in Europe. Other than the mainland, there are a number of islands where there are excellent hotels. All the islands in Greece have a large choice of hotels, from luxury hotels to moderate ones. Tourists can easily find hotels to fit into every kind of budgets and facilities.


Hotels in Greece can be categorized into six groups: Luxury, A, B, C, D, and E.


A hotel is ranked based on the size of rooms, variety, array of amenities offered and the services provided by the hotel. Factors such as cleanliness, friendliness or comfort are not considered in the classification process.


D and E class hotels have almost the same price range. In both these classes of hotels, there is no guarantee that hot water will be available. Food is not available on the hotel premises. The bathroom is shared in all E class hotels, and in some D class ones, as well.


C class hotels have private bathrooms. Food is available on the hotel premises, and there is hot water, though it may not be available all day long. Luxury, A, and B class hotels have many amenities. They have private bathrooms and provide continuous hot water.


The tourist police of Greece control the rent charges, which is dependant on the class of the hotel. Ideally all hotels are required to post a sign behind the door of each room showing the maximum cost of the room. Prices are subject to changes and it is recommended that a visitor call for an updated price quote just before the arrival dates. Prices are dependant on seasonal fluctuations and the location of the hotel. In July and August, the rate for rooms is high as these are the peak tourism months. In April, May, September and October, the tariffs tend to fall. Most hotels provide transport to and from the hotel.


For travelers planning a long trip, it makes sense to rent a large self-contained space such as an apartment, house, or villa. Apartments are sometimes available within hotels or they can be found from listings, along with houses and villas, in the local newspapers.


Greece provides detailed information on Greece, Ancient Greece, Greece Flights, Greece Hotels and more. Greece is affiliated with Zuid Holland.


Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Steve_Valentino