City to invite visitors from the world

The third Year of Chengdu, a themed tourism program sponsored by Chengdu municipal government and local government departments, was launched in the city on Wednesday.

A variety of activities will be staged at a large number of venues in the city, including major

tourist attractions in the city such as Xiling Snow Mountains, Jinsha Site Museum, Wuhouci Temple, Wenshu Monastery, China Alley and Du Fus Thatched House, as well as several old towns featuring ancient architecture.

Cultural events will also be conducted on some festive occasions, such as the Lantern Show, the Temple Fair, the South China Snow & Ice Festival and Spring Festival celebrations at some sightseeing sites around the city.

Local government has held promotional programs in other cities in China and several countries in southeastern Asia, including Singapore and Malaysia, to attract more visitors to join local people in celebrating the Spring Festival. It also has signed agreements with Google and MSN to promote the event on the Internet.

The Year of Chengdu of this year has a theme of Share Happiness and will last till early March.

discounted park annual ticket at Stansted airport

A limited edition car park season ticket for rail commuters is being re-launched at Stansted Airport this week.

The updated scheme, available from 6 June, allows people regularly commuting to park their car a short walk from the airport's rail station for a discounted annual price.
The annual ticket allows access to the airport’s short-stay car park and costs £1,999, saving around 75% on a normal roll-up price. The price also includes four free weekend stays in the short stay car park or 12 days in the mid-stay.

Nick Barton, Stansted Airport’s managing director, said:

"We’ve responded to requests from the community, including Sir Alan Haselhurst, and are delighted to reopen the scheme which offers an enhanced product for local people commuting to London by rail from Stansted Airport.”

Uttlesford's MP Sir Alan Haselhurst added:

“I welcome the new season ticket proposals of Stansted Airport Ltd. designed primarily to assist rail commuters to have convenient parking. I am sure that they meet a real need.”
All car parks at Stansted Airport are accredited to 'Park Mark®' standard for safety and security, and approved by Essex Police. Security measures include comprehensive CCTV coverage, security fencing and regular patrols.

Local residents wishing to enquire about the season ticket offer should email customerservice@empark.es or phone 01279 666064.

Colchester/Braintree to Stansted bus service

London Stansted airport transport network will be further boosted next month with improved links on two key bus routes that connect Colchester, Braintree and Bishop’s Stortford to the airport.

Bus operator Tellings Golden Miller (TGM) will merge two existing services creating the new 133 hourly link to the airport from Colchester and Braintree. Meanwhile, the 308 service from Stansted Airport to Bishop’s Stortford will now operate 24 hours a day, including Sundays and Bank Holidays.

Stansted Airport’s Public Transport Manager, Steve Mills, said:“Nearly half of air passengers currently travel to and from the airport by public transport - that’s the highest figure for any major airport in the UK, and one of the highest in Europe. Much of this growth is the result of a highly successful strategy to improve bus and coach services at the airport and supporting companies such as TGM to grow their network.”

Bob Dorr, TGM Group Regional Director East, added: “TGM and Stansted Airport have worked very hard to ensure that a sustainable service between the airport and Colchester continues to be provided to existing customers. The enhancements with buses every hour during most of the day should encourage new bus users too. We are delighted to have such a progressive partner in Stansted Airport sharing our vision to enhance public transport.”

The airport’s bus and coach operation is a real success story with more than 600 departures a day to more than 60 key destinations throughout the UK. Stansted has invested millions into improving local bus and coach services; on average 31p from every airport car park transaction is transferred into a fund that supports public transport routes and initiatives.

Ryanair service London Stansted to Corfu

Ryanair has started direct service between London Stansted and Corfu, the first scheduled flight from the airport to the sun-drenched Greek island.

Starting on July 7, flights will operate twice weekly on Mondays and Thursdays with fares as low as £57.99 one-way, including tax.

This launch follows the recent announcement from Ryanair introducing a new route from Stansted to the Swedish city of Malmo. The daily service will begin on November 2, with fares starting from £27.00 one way inclusive of taxes. Ryanair now offers Stansted passengers a choice of four Swedish airports: Gothenburg, Malmo, Stockholm Skavsta and Stockholm Vasteras.

Speaking about the new route, Stansted’s Managing Director, Nick Barton, said: “Ryanair boosted our range of Greek connections in April with the launch of new services to Rhodes and Thessaloniki, and I’m sure this new connection to Corfu will prove just as popular.

“London Stansted offers more scheduled flights throughout Europe than any other airport in the world, so we’re delighted to add Corfu to our scheduled route network, and wish Ryanair every success.”

Ryanair's Sales and Marketing Executive, Maria Macken, added: “Ryanair is delighted to launch its first service between the Greek island of Corfu and London Stansted this summer. With fares as low as £57.99 one-way including tax, passengers are urged to visit www.ryanair.com to snap up their low fare connection to Corfu.”

For information on other direct flight connections from Stansted this summer visit www.stanstedairport.com/destinations.

Stansted/Visit Essex launch tourism campaign

London Stansted, Visit Essex and London & Partners joined forces this week to launch a new tourism campaign.

The “Hello, Hello” campaign has been launched in the run up to the Olympic Games, it is aimed at raising awareness of the tourist destinations and attractions located within easy travelling distance of the airport.
The campaign was boosted when a Roman soldier visited the airport terminal this week; he distributed flyers and generated some excitement amongst the departing passengers.

Elli Constantatou, Marketing & PR Manager, Visit Essex said:
“Located on the doorstep of London and the Olympic Park, Essex is the ideal place for people to stay and explore our fabulous places to visit, whilst enjoying the greatest show on earth. The undulating Essex countryside with picturesque villages and beautiful gardens, the stunning coastline, over 350 miles long, and our rich heritage will ensure that visitors can have an unforgettable time.”
Outbound passengers are being targeted with leaflets in a bid to encourage them to fly back and make the most of what London and Essex has to offer. The leaflet highlights just some of the many things to discover and enjoy. Colchester, Chelmsford and Southend are featured destinations as well as London providing unrivalled entertainment and culture.

Louisa Myers, Leisure Tourism Marketing Manager UK, London & Partners said:
“We are coming up to an incredibly exciting time for London as we countdown one year to go until the 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games. There is so much to see and do in the capital from culture, entertainment, shopping and eating out which are a great compliment to the fantastic range of attractions across Essex.”

Paul Haynes, Airline Route and Marketing Manager, Stansted Airport said:
“As well as being able to find out about some of the hidden treasures around Essex and London passengers have the chance to win a fantastic Essex and London mini break. With less than a year to go before the Olympics it’s all part of our effort to promote local tourism within our catchment area, ensuring the economic benefits of Stansted are realised.”

For further information on the places to visit in London and Essex please go to www.visitlondon.com and www.visitessex.com.

Stansted Airports tips for liquids luggage rules

As the busy summer getaway begins, a new airport survey reveals many air passengers are still struggling to get to grips with hand luggage rules and what can and can’t be taken onto the plane five years after the current restrictions on liquids were introduced.

A survey of passengers who were stopped for carrying restricted items at Stansted Airport revealed that, despite 87% believing they knew the regulations, there is still widespread confusion amongst the travelling public about how to prepare for airport security checks. Key highlights include:

30% of passengers quizzed said they had forgotten their hand luggage contained liquids.
17% were using the wrong size liquids bag.
16% stated they didn’t know the rejected item was classed as a liquid.
10% didn’t realise it was necessary to take the liquids bag out of their hand luggage.
Each day, an average of 20 household waste bins are filled at security search with prohibited or restricted items contained within passengers hand luggage.

To help ease passengers through the airport, Stansted is reminding passengers to ‘get it right before your flight’ and prepare for security checks before leaving home. Following a few EASY steps should ensure passengers avoid any unnecessary delays and disappointment and have a smooth start to their journey:

Ensure you prepare your luggage correctly before you leave home
All gels, pastes and liquids, no larger than 100ml, must be placed in a re-sealable plastic bag
Separate your liquids bag from your hand luggage before you reach security
Your liquids bag must be no bigger than approximately 20cm x 20cm

John Farrow, Stansted’s Head of Terminal, said,

“We realise many people may only fly once a year on their summer holidays, and can be confused about what they can and can’t take through airport security in hand luggage. While our priority is to ensure we operate a safe and secure airport we also want to help our passengers get it right and avoid unnecessary delays.

“It’s vital they prepare correctly before setting-off for the airport, so I would encourage all passengers using Stansted this summer to take some time to understand the security regulations and follow our EASY tips to enjoy a stress free start to their holidays.”

easyjet Stansted to Bodrum and Dalaman

easyJet, the UK’s largest airline, has today announced four exciting new destinations from Stansted next Spring, further boosting its extensive route network from the airport in 2010.

Popular Turkish holiday resorts, Bodrum and Dalaman, along with Croatian destinations of Dubrovnik and Split will offer passengers excellent value for money as they are all outside the eurozone.
“This announcement is a real positive beginning to 2010, and will offer our passengers great value for money and even more choice to increasingly popular destinations.
“This is excellent news for both Stansted and easyJet,” said Stansted’s Managing Director, David Johnston. “It is a real vote of confidence by easyJet in Stansted, at a time when the economy is still struggling, and the aviation sector in particular is facing a number of challenges.”
“We remain optimistic about the year ahead, and Stansted’s future, and will continue to work hard to attract new airlines and routes to the airport, supporting our existing carriers and further increasing Stansted’s already impressive network of destinations.”

This is the third new route announcement by easyJet at Stansted in just 10 weeks. Other destinations announced by the award-winning airline are the Canary Island of Fueteventura and Cagliari in Sardinia, bringing the total number of routes served by easyJet from Stansted to 29.

No 1 Lounge Stansted airport

A new pay-as-you-visit business lounge for travellers flying with Ryanair opened its doors at Stansted Airport.

The No 1 Lounge, located in satellite three opposite the Ryanair departure gates, costs £17.50 per visit and offers all the traditional benefits of a VIP lounge, as well as free Wi-Fi, a bar, freshly prepared food, business facilities, newspapers and magazines.
It is the second No 1 Lounge to open at Stansted. The first, which opened in September 2009 in satellite one, has spectacular panoramic views of the runway and serves all passengers on international flights except, due to its location, those travelling with Ryanair.

No.1 Lounges, part of the No.1 Group, is the vision of multi-award winning British theatre producer Phil Cameron, who said: “Stansted is a major airport, with discerning passengers, creating their own travel itineraries.

Nick Barton, Stansted Airport’s commercial and development director, said: “No 1 Lounges’ second facility here at Stansted will be an excellent addition to the services we already provide for customers.

“We know that business travellers particularly appreciate the opportunity to work or relax in comfortable surroundings away from the general buzz of a busy airport. I’m sure many of our passengers flying with Ryanair will quickly take up the benefits provided by this new lounge.”

“Low-cost travel often puts pressure on the passenger to arrive in good time and we recognize that many would welcome an opportunity to get the formalities out the way, and head out towards their gates to eat, drink and enjoy our unique service.

“We recognise that 60% of passengers flying from Stansted travel with Ryanair, and we are excited to be the first company to serve these passengers.”

All No.1 lounges can be booked online, in advance, for just £17.50. Book No1 Lounge online.

AirAsia increase Stansted KL flight frequency

AirAsia X, Asia’s leading low cost airline, has celebrated the first anniversary of its launch of operations from London Stansted Airport to Kuala Lumpur.

The service, which links the UK's third busiest airport with the Malaysian Capital, has carried over 221,00 passengers on the route during its first year.

The route out of Stansted has cemented Kuala Lumpur as a regional hub for Asia, with a strong trend of passengers connecting to AirAsia’s comprehensive route network. The top five destinations Brits are heading to with AirAsia are Bali, Bangkok, Phuket, Hong Kong and Singapore with more and more continuing their journey and flying on to Australia.

Unprecedented demand for the route will see the frequency of flights increase from seven times to nine times per week for its peak periods in summer 2010 – July, August and September and winter 2010 - December and January. Other developments include the introduction of lie flat seats in AirAsia’s premium cabin - a world first for a budget airline.
"AirAsia is a multi-award winning airline with a superb reputation for service excellence and value for money, and with very ambitious growth plans for the future. We look forward to working with them for many years to come as they develop their services here at Stansted."

Congratulating the airline was Nick Barton, London Stansted's Commercial & Development Director, who said:

"On behalf of everyone at Stansted, I'd like to offer my congratulations to AirAsia X on a fantastic first year at the airport. As we anticipated, the Stansted-Kuala Lumpur service has proved to be extremely popular with passengers, both in the UK and across Asia. They have helped revolutionise long-haul travel and we are very proud to have them with us here at Stansted.

AirAsia X CEO, Azran Osman-Rani, said: “AirAsia has once again proved those who said it couldn’t be done wrong. We have seen surging demand on the London to Kuala Lumpur route despite 2009 being one the toughest years for the aviation industry. Consumers are switching on to the fact that they can take the holiday of their dreams in exotic destinations across South East Asia and Australia for much less than ever before.”

Germanwings flight Stansted to Hanover

Germanwings today expands its flight connections from Stansted with the launch of a twice daily service to to Hanover. Fares as low as £13.99 one-way including tax
"Germanwings has developed very successful links from Stansted to Cologne and Stuttgart, and we're delighted to be the London connection for their new hub at Hanover opening today. We wish them every success and look forward to supporting them in the expansion of their German connections from Stansted.

Germanwings flights from Stansted to Hanover will depart at 7.50am and 8.15pm Monday to Friday, daily at weekends, with lead-in fares from as low as £13.99 one-way including tax. For further information and flight reservations visit www.germanwings.com.

"It's extremely encouraging to see Germanwings growing its route network, especially at a time when the aviation industry still faces some of its most challenging times," commented Nick Barton, Stansted Airport's Commercial and Development Director.

"With Stansted set to welcome a whole host of new services, including additional flights to Malaysia by AirAsia X, new connections to Croatia and Turkey by easyJet and new routes to Spain and Morocco from Ryanair, we're looking forward to some very exciting developments to our route network in the coming months."

Panalpina selected Stansted Airport for freight operations

Panalpina, world leaders in global freight operations, have selected London Stansted Airport as the base from which they will operate all their UK air freight operations.

Speaking about the launch of operations from Stansted, Nick Barton the airport's Commercial and Development Director said:

"The professionalism and reputation of the cargo partners based here were also major influencing factors in their decision and we're delighted to welcome Panalpina into Stansted."

"We're delighted that one of the worlds largest freight operators has selected the modern, world class cargo facilities at Stansted from which to base their air freight operations in and out of the UK.

The Panalpina Group is one of the world's leading providers of Supply Chain Solutions, combining intercontinental air and ocean freight with comprehensive supply chain services and value-added services in logistics.
The Panalpina Group operates a global network with some 500 branches in more than 80 countries. In a further 80 countries, it cooperates closely with partner companies. Panalpina employs approximately 15,000 people worldwide.

Sun Country Airlines flights Stansted to Minnesota

Sun Country Airlines this weekend launched an exciting new summer service from Stansted to Minnesota, in the State of Minneapolis.
"Since announcing the start of this new service back in March, Sun Country has had great interest from UK travellers keen to take advantage of its exciting travel packages to this part of the USA," said Stansted Airport's Commercial and Development Director, Nick Barton.
The airline has teamed up with Mall of America to offer great value travel packages to one of North America's premier tourist destinations, where visitors can enjoy tax-free shopping and experience the thrill of attractions such as Nickelodeon Universe® and Underwater Adventures® Amusement Park.

"Stansted's prime location on the doorstep of London, with easy connections across the East of England, has also been an attractive offering for American tourists keen to explore the centuries of history found in our capital city and East of England region.

"We're delighted Sun Country chose Stansted as the London gateway through which to operate these exciting travel deals, and we wish them every success with its service from here this Summer."Touching down on the inaugural flight into Stansted was Sun Country Airline's President and CEO, Stan Gadek who commented:

“Stansted Airport is one of the best connected airports in Europe, and our passengers from the USA will not only take advantage of Stansted's proximity to London and East of England region, but also the convenient flight connections across Europe, especially those operated by leading low-cost airlines easyJet and Ryanair.
"Likewise, we're looking forward to welcoming many British travellers onto Sun Country Airlines this summer as they head across the pond to experience the sights and sounds of the Twin Cities of Minnesota."

For further information on Sun Country Airlines services from Stansted Airport visit www.suncountry.co.uk

EY Bangalore to Abu Dhabi nonstop flights

Etihad Airways has launched nonstop flights from Abu Dhabi to its eighth destination in India - the Garden City, Bangalore. Etihad operates four return flights a week to Bangalore, which is the capital of the Indian state of Karnataka and the country's third most populous city.

The airline will increase to a daily service on the route from March 25, 2011, at the commencement of its summer scheduling season.
Etihad operates a two class Airbus A320 on the new Bangalore route configured to carry 140 passengers with 20 in Business class and 120 in Economy class.

Neerja Bhatia, Etihad Airways' Country Manager in India, said: "India is a hugely important market for Etihad - in fact, we operate to more destinations in India than any other country. We are delighted to be able to reach out to our guests in Karnataka through this new direct service - the first to operate between Bangalore and the capital of the United Arab Emirates, Abu Dhabi."

With the addition of Bangalore, Etihad flies to eight Indian destinations including the cities of New Delhi, Chennai, Mumbai, Kozhikode, Thiruvananthapuram, Hyderabad and Kochi with a total of 49 flights to India per week.

earn air NZ Status Points from amex

American Express and Air New Zealand have partnered to launch the Air New Zealand American Express Platinum Card, providing those who love to travel with the fastest way to get their wings.

With an annual fee of $395 the Card gives you an outstanding amount of value. Take a look for yourself: http://www.americanexpress.com/newzealand/campaigns/flyfastestmountain/index.shtml

A Faster way to Status Points

For every $250 you spend on your Card you'll earn 1 Status Point2, which could help you to retain your current Airpoints status or reach a higher Airpoints status, and enjoy exclusive benefits and privileges, faster8.To upgrade or retain Airpoints Tier Status at least half of the required Status Points must come from qualifying flights with Air New Zealand or Star Alliance partners.

Status Points are what determine your tier status. Silver tier 450 points,Gold 900 Gold Elite 1,500 points

Koru joining fee waiver and annual membership discount

Koru offers the discerning traveller many benefits and privileges. You'll receive an individual Koru joining fee waiver of $255 and a reduced annual membership discount of $145 (to just $361)4 for as long as you hold your Card.

The Card also offers the fastest Platinum Card earn rate of $752 = 1 Airpoints Dollar3 to get you flying even faster. Not to mention 1 Status Point for every $250 spent2, to help you retain your Airpoints Status or reach the next one quicker.

Other Card member privileges include a Koru joining fee waiver4 saving new members $255, and a Koru annual individual membership discount4 saving you $145 every year. While you're travelling, know that you're protected with Domestic and International Travel Insurance5. And no matter where you are in the world, we're here to look after you with American Express Platinum Priority Servicing 24/7.

Take advantage of our introductory offer and give your Airpoints Dollars Account a boost. Receive 200 bonus Airpoints Dollars if you apply, are approved by 31 December 2011 and spend $500 on the Card within the first three months6.

Air NZ amex Platinum Card Koru lounge

American Express and Air New Zealand have partnered to launch the Air New Zealand American Express Platinum Card, Take advantage of our introductory offer and give your Airpoints Dollars Account a boost. Receive 200 bonus Airpoints Dollars if you apply, are approved by 31 December 2011 and spend $500 on the Card within the first three months6.
Your complimentary domestic return flight1

To get you flying faster you'll receive a complimentary direct Air New Zealand domestic return flight each membership year.
Other Card member privileges include a Koru joining fee waiver4 saving new members $255, and a Koru annual individual membership discount4 saving you $145 every year.

As a Koru member,you have access to Air New Zealand and partner airline lounges at selected overseas airports such as tokyo narita,LAX,SFO,hongkong beijing,prior to departure on Air New Zealand flights

Koru members are also now able to use Virgin Australia lounges when flying domestically in Australia with the Virgin Australia Group from 26th of July 2011. These lounges are located in Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne, Adelaide, Canberra and Perth.
As a Koru member, you have access to dedicated check-in counters in Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch and Dunedin airports, as well as Business Class check-in facilities when travelling on Air New Zealand operated flights from any other airport.
With an annual fee of $395 the Card gives you an outstanding amount of value. Take a look for yourself:

American Express Cathay Pacific Corporate Card

The American Express Cathay Pacific Corporate Card programme is the first of its kind in Hong Kong, rewarding your Company with Asia MilesTM. You can then use these Asia Miles to redeem your future business trips – effectively returning money to your Company’s bottom line.

For every HK$12 spent on Cathay Pacific and Dragonair flights, charged to the American Express Cathay Pacific Corporate Card or linked Business Travel Accounts, your Company will earn 1 Asia Mile1.

What’s more, your Company will automatically receive 15,000 Asia Miles when you have 3 or more Cardmembers in the Corporate Card programme. That’s equivalent to one round-trip Economy Class ticket between Hong Kong to Taipei.

Plus, your Company will earn an additional 1,000 bonus Asia Miles every time Cardmembers spend HK$20,000 or more in one purchase with Cathay Pacific or Dragonair on their Corporate Cards.

Simply add up all the Asia Miles your Company will earn in a year and you’ll see how easy it is to stretch your travel budget further.

First year Card fee free
We’ll even waive all your Corporate Card annual fees2 for the first year, which means a saving of up to HK$5902 per Cardmember per year. Plus, annual Card fees for the following year will be waived for every Card on which HK$200,0002 is spent – effectively returning money to your Company’s bottom line.

The American Express Cathay Pacific Corporate Card programme is a powerful and flexible tool to maximise the efficiency of your expense management programme.

Enjoy the flexibility of a variety of spending limit options, designed to control high-risk spending and enforce your company’s expense policies. Card restrictions include:
- Overall spending limits
- Industry spending limits
- Cash Access limits
- Individual Cardmember


Extra protection for travellers
When travel tickets are charged to the Corporate Card, Cardmembers automatically enjoy comprehensive protection, including:
• Business Travel Accident Insurance2
• Travel Inconvenience Insurance2
• Accident Medical Expenses Insurance2
• Travel Inconvenience Insurance2

Visa Cards free nights at bali Villas & Spa

Enjoy free nights when you book your Private Luxury Villa with Visa at these favorites destinations - Phuket, Koh Samui, Bali, Lombok and Sri Lanka.

Valid from 1 January till 31 December 2011.

www.privatehomesandvillas.com/visa

Balinese villa& Spa set in the rice paddies of Canggu
Pay for 4 nights and receive 1 free night

Pay for 7 nights and receive 2 free nights

Free airport pick-up
The "free nights" offer is applicable for villa reservations at participating villas up to 14 Dec 2011 (Thailand), 18 Dec 2011 (Sri Lanka) and 19 Dec 2011 (Indonesia) with any Visa Infinite, Signature or Platinum card and booked through Private Homes & Villas Pte Ltd.
Guest must book and pay with a valid Visa Infinite, Signature or Platinum card to be eligible for the Offer. Payments must be made as per Private Homes & Villas Pte Ltd Standard Terms & Conditions.
Offer applicable for villa stays from:

Phuket
8 Jan to 14 Dec 2011
excluding 20 Apr to 30 Apr 2011
(Villa Shanti, Villa Jia, Villa Ananda)
17 Jan to 18 Dec 2011
(Villa Cattleya C5a, C5b and C10; Villa Penda C7; Villa La CigaleC11; Villa Thai B4; Villa Miltonia K12; Villa Suriya B2; Villa Disa B3; Villa Phala A3 and A5; Villa Laelia W8; Villa Aranda X2)
7 Feb to 30 Nov 2011
excluding 18 Apr to 25 Apr 2011
(Villa Benyasiri, Villa Lomchoy, Villa Hale Malia, Villa Fah Sai, Samsara Villa 2, Villa Leelavadee)

Koh Samui
11 Jan to 31 Jul 2011
excluding 28 Jan to 13 Feb 2011, 15 Apr to 1 May 2011

1 Sept to 14 Dec 2011 (all villas)

Bali/Lombok
9 Jan to 30 Jun 2011
excluding 1 Feb to 6 Feb 2011, 22 Apr to 28 Apr 2011
16 Sept to 19 Dec 2011 (all villas except Eden Villas)
1 Sept to 16 Dec 2011 (Eden Villas)
Sri Lanka
9 Jan to 18 Dec 2011 (all villas)
Complimentary nights cannot be redeemed on a separate stay.
For all Koh Samui and Jivana Villas (Ananda, Jia, Shanti), complimentary nights include continental breakfast and maid service but exclude the Thai chef service. Chef service can be arranged (subject to availability) at Baht 1500++/meal or Baht 2500++/day (these rates may change at the discretion of the villa).

Visa Signature hotel room upgrade/Late checkout

the Visa Signature Luxury Hotel Collection is a new premium travel offering enabling Visa Signature cardholders to find, book and enjoy unique benefits at a hand-selected group of prestigious properties throughout the world.

The Visa Signature Luxury Hotel Collection offers cardholders access to a host of perks, which may include the best available rate, a room upgrade, VIP guest status, complimentary valet parking or internet access, a food and beverage voucher, complimentary continental breakfast, and late checkout privileges.
Upon availability at check-in, you will be upgraded to the next highest room class for the duration of your stay.

Late checkout is available upon request, upon availability by the hotel. At the time of check-in, or during the course of your stay, you may contact the front desk and request late checkout up to 3 p.m.

The new program was tailored to appeal to the most desired travel benefits. All perks offered by Visa Signature Luxury Hotel Collection ranked among the top ten important travel benefits in a 2009 survey of Visa Signature cardholders.[2] Complimentary room upgrades (53 percent) and free internet access (51 percent) were identified as the most important travel benefits among respondents.


The Visa Signature Luxury Hotel Collection is available to U.S.-issued Visa Signature cardholders and is the first offering in the new Visa Luxury Hotel Collection, a global travel benefit that will be introduced for premium Visa card programs in other regions around the world, creating Visa's first global premium travel benefit.

"Travel benefits consistently rank at the top of our Visa Signature credit card holders' lists of preferred perks," said Stacey Pinkerd, Head of Global Consumer Products Strategy, Visa Inc. "The Visa Signature Luxury Hotel Collection enhances Visa Signature's ability to meet the lifestyles of today's affluent cardholder with access to the travel perks they value most. Whether planning a weekend getaway or a family vacation, Visa Signature cardholders can have confidence their accommodations will meet their expectations."

The Visa Luxury Hotel Collection is powered by Kiwi Collection, one of the most-selective collections of luxury properties. Hotels available through the new program range from exceptional foreign destinations, such as the Burj al Arab in Dubai and Amanpuri in Thailand to domestic luxury properties, including The Setai in Miami and The Pierre in New York.

For more information on the Visa Signature Luxury Hotel Collection and specific benefits, Visa Signature cardholders can visit www.visasignaturehotels.com.

Visa Marriott weekend room rates discount

Visa - Marriott Global Offer • All Visa Cards

• Receive 20% off weekends when you book and pay in advance with your Visa card for stays at participating Marriott hotels outside the USA
Wherever you wish to spend a weekend, Marriott has more choice, giving you more opportunity in choosing your ideal getaway. With a truly enviable set of locations covering cities, resorts, beaches and even mountains there really is something for everyone. Your ideal weekend is now easier to choose from and more in your grasp than ever before.
Together with Visa, Marriott brings you 20% discount weekend room rates. Book and pay in advance and pay with Visa between 9th June and 29th August 2011, for stays at participating hotels from 16th June to 5th September 2011.


Booking period:
From now till 29 August 2011

Stay period:
For stays at participating hotels outside the USA from 16 June to 5 September 2011

Eligible cards:
Visa Classic, Visa Gold, Visa Platinum, Visa Signature, Visa Infinite
Valid for credit and debit cards

Booking channels:
To redeem this offer, call your country-specific phone number below, or go to your country-specific Marriott website.

Australia: Toll-free 1 800 251259 / Marriott.com.au/Visa
Brazil Toll-free 0800 703 1512 and Sao Paulo - Toll-free 11 3069 2807 / Marriott.com.br/Visa
China: Toll-free 400 132 7900 / Hong Kong SAR - Toll-free 800 932083 / Marriott.com.cn/Visa
Germany: Toll-free 00800 1927 1927 and Austria: Toll-free 0800 296703 / Marriott.de/Visa

Visa Premium Cards Airport SpeedPass

Visa Airport SpeedPass for All Visa Premium Cards
Take the hassle and inconvenience out of your trip by gaining access to the VIP world of fast track through airport security, meet & assist services with Visa SpeedPass. At many leading international airports worldwide Visa SpeedPass can offer you personal in-airport service, beating queues, avoiding inconvenience and being treated as a special passenger. Visa SpeedPass also offers sensible prices and convenient booking for its service in over 130 international airports, so if you are travelling as a family or business group you will be surprised how affordable Visa SpeedPass’s VIP service can be. Visa SpeedPass makes getting in and out of airports a pleasure and not a pain.


As you arrive at the airport to fly to your destination, or touchdown in your chosen location, Visa Airport SpeedPass agents are waiting for you. Meeting you at the air-bridge for arriving passengers, or at the kerbside for departing passengers, our agents will ensure that the stress and strains of the airport are smoothed away along with the queues.

A friendly face escorts you every step of the way, removing language barriers and lengthy queues through customs and immigration and making sure that all your specific requirements are met.

• Visa Infinite cardholders: 16% discount off published rates
• Visa Platinum cardholders: 11% discount off published rates

Valid till 31 December 2011.Travelers also enjoy car rental benefits with Avis and Hertz as well as duty free shopping privileges at airports in Japan, Korea, Bali, Malaysia and Thailand.
Visa Infinite, Visa Signature, Visa Platinum cardholders [3] residing in Asia Pacific, Central Europe, Middle East and Africa are eligible for the program.
Book at www.AirportSpeedPass.com

Diners Club Corporate Card travel insurance

Out-of-town meetings. Complex itineraries. Last-minute schedule changes. Business often means that you shoulder weighty demands. That's why the Diners Club Corporate Card automatically includes a comprehensive travel insurance package that provides protection you can rely on for peace of mind. Let us take care of the details, while you take care of the business at hand.
Every time you charge your airline ticket, train or other common carrier fare to Diners Club, you'll receive automatic Travel Accident Insurance at no extra cost. Diners Club provides $350,000* in travel accident insurance — even when you're traveling on free or frequent flyer tickets. That's more coverage than you'll currently receive from any other corporate charge card provider and one more reason to feel confident in using the Diners Club Card for business travel expenses.
For your added protection, coverage includes direct travel to and from the airport, station or terminal, on any public conveyance, including buses, trains, taxis and hotels/car rental agency courtesy vans if your ticket was charged to your Diners Club Card prior to departure.

All Cardmembers, their legal spouses and dependent children** are covered. Persons traveling at the Cardmember's request whose common carrier tickets are charged to the Cardmember's Diners Club Account are also covered by this insurance.
You have the option of designating a beneficiary of your Travel Accident Insurance.
Travel Accident Insurance is underwritten by National Union Fire Insurance Company of Pittsburgh, Pa. Certain terms, conditions, restrictions and exclusions apply. See applicable Insurance Terms and Conditions (sent with your Card) for details, or call 800-2DINERS (800-234-6377) in U.S. or outside the U.S. call collect: 702-797-5532. Standard coverage. Coverage may vary by organization.
**Unmarried, dependent children under the age of 19 (or age 25 if a full-time student at any accredited institution of higher learning) and primarily dependent on the Cardmember for support and maintenance.
Rest easy when you travel with one of the best Air Travel Accident Insurance values! As a Diners Club Corporate Cardmember in good standing, your acceptance is guaranteed for enrollment in Diners Club Flight Coverage Plus, underwritten and provided by National Union Fire Insurance Company of Pittsburgh, Pa.*
Enrollment in Flight Coverage Plus is free. Once you enroll, you will be billed automatically whenever you travel and charge scheduled airline tickets to your Diners Club Corporate Card. Your coverage starts from the moment you step out your door to go to the airport (provided your scheduled airline ticket is charged in advance) and continues until you return, up to 30 days later.

Citi ThankYou Premier Card Insurance

Your Citi ThankYou credit card has you covered when you travel. Benefit from auto rental insurance coverage and Trip Cancellation

$0 Liability on Unauthorized Charges
Shop anywhere and never lose a penny on unauthorized charges. With $0 Liability you won't pay for any unauthorized charges made with your Citi ThankYou Premier credit Card.

Automatic Travel Accident Insurance
Provides accidental death or dismemberment insurance while traveling on a common carrier (plane, train, ship or bus) when the entire cost of the full common carrier fare is purchased with your card.

Auto Rental Insurance
You're automatically covered when you reserve and rent an eligible vehicle with your Citi® card and decline the car rental company's collision loss/damage waiver insurance.
Lost Luggage Coverage
Charge the entire common carrier fare to your Citi® card and get up to $3,000 in lost luggage coverage for you and your dependents. This benefit covers permanently lost, stolen or damaged baggage or personal articles checked with a common carrier.

Trip Cancellation / Trip Interruption Coverage3
In the event you are prevented from taking or continuing a trip you billed to your Citi card, you are eligible to receive up to $1,500 in Trip Cancellation/Trip Interruption coverage.

Emergency Assistance Services
With medical and legal referrals and translation services, you're protected while on the road or abroad. Included in this service are Pre-Trip Travel Assistance, Medical Assistance and Legal Referral Services.

Retail Purchase Protection
Most items purchased with your Citi Card are eligible for protection against theft, fire or accidental breakage of up to $1,000 for up to 90 days from the date of purchase.

Price Protection
If you buy something with your Citi® card and then see it advertised in print for less within 60 days, you will receive a refund for the difference up to $250 (excludes Internet purchases and certain items).

Extended Warranty
Extends the manufacturer's original U.S. warranty (of one year or less) up to one additional year on most items purchased with your Citi Card.