NYC & Company Appoints New Agency For Australia And New Zealand

NYC & Company, New York City’s official marketing, tourism and partnership organisation, today announced the appointment of The Walshe Group as the representative agency for Australia and New Zealand, handling sales, marketing and public relations in the region.

The Walshe Group, with its head office in Sydney, will work with NYC & Company to strengthen New York City’s reach as a primary brand and destination for travelers from Australia and New Zealand.

“The Walshe Group will be an asset to NYC & Company as we seek to further expand New York City’s share of the growing Australia and New Zealand travel market. We are eager to enhance our work in market with the travel trade as well as the consumer and trade media to promote the five boroughs to travelers from every corner of this important region,” said Fred Dixon, NYC & Company’s President & CEO.

In 2013, New York City welcomed 619,000 visitors from Australia and 26,000 from New Zealand. Australia and New Zealand remain a strong source of international visitors to New York City, ranking within its top five overseas markets.

“The Walshe Group will be instrumental in maximising NYC & Company’s market outreach efforts throughout Australia and New Zealand. Consumers’ needs and their decision making process continues to evolve while at the same time, product distribution channels are increasingly being diversified. To ensure our continued success, we will need to ensure our ever-evolving New York City five-borough products and experiences, are showcased at every touch point of the tourism development process,” said Makiko Matsuda Healy, NYC & Company’s, Senior Vice President, Global Tourism Development.

“I am extremely pleased and proud that The Walshe Group has been selected by such a prestigious tourism organisation. New York City is one of the most exciting destinations in the world and we greatly look forward to growing their brand in Australia and New Zealand,” said Jacqui Walshe, The Walshe Group’s Managing Director.

“New York City is one of the world’s most recognised brands and we look forward to exposing the exciting new product as well as the iconic experiences to our audience of intrepid Australia and New Zealand travelers,” Chris Heywood, NYC & Company’s, Senior Vice President, Global Communications.

Tourism Development and Marketing queries in the Australia/New Zealand region should be directed to Jane Wilsonnycgo@walshegroup.com; Public Relations and Media enquiries should be forwarded to Sarah Stevenson at Sarah.Stevenson@walshegroup.com.

Yoga and Mother's Room Open at Midway International Airport Chicago

The Chicago Department of Aviation (CDA) is pleased to announce the official opening of two new amenities for travelers at Midway International Airport - a Yoga Room and a Mother's Room. Both rooms are conveniently located on Concourse C.

"On behalf of Mayor Rahm Emanuel, we are excited to offer these two new spaces for travelers passing through Midway," said CDA Commissioner Rosemarie S. Andolino. "The Yoga Room provides a space for yoga practice, relaxation and meditation. And the Mother's Room will allow nursing mothers some privacy while traveling with infants. We believe these rooms will help elevate the travel experience at Midway."

Yoga practitioners Corey Kelly, Michael Sokolowske and Coleen Taylor make use of the Midway Yoga Room

The Yoga Room features a sustainable bamboo wood floor, floor to ceiling mirrors on one wall, exercise mats and an area to place personal articles and garments. Frosted windows on one side of the room let in natural light while providing discretion from adjacent public spaces. A wall-mounted video monitor in the room displays yoga exercise techniques and imagery of nature, and the audio plays soothing sounds. A public restroom nearby is available for changing clothes.

The Mother's Room at Midway

The Mother's Room, which is next to the Yoga Room, will provide a tranquil location for travelers who are breastfeeding their children and would prefer to do so in a private setting.

As with all new developments at Chicago's airports, sustainable elements, such as LED lighting and paint, were incorporated in the design and construction of each room.

The CDA opened a Yoga Room at O'Hare International Airport in December 2013.

Summer Activities Heat Up in Fort Worth, Texas

Multiple outdoor concerts and events are making a splash on the Fort Worth entertainment scene, now through August 2014. Activities include Willie Nelson's Fourth of July Picnic at Billy Bob's Texas, safari rides at Fossil Rim Wildlife Center and a special exhibition at the Fort Worth Museum of Science and History.

Head to the Stockyards National Historic District this Fourth of July and visitCowtown Wakepark, where newbie wakeboarders are welcome and no boat is required. Afterwards, join the crowd at Willie Nelson's 4th of July Picnic at Billy Bob's Texas – the world's largest honky-tonk. The highly anticipated, all-day outdoor concert that originated long before the days of Lollapalooza and Coachella Music Festival welcomes the following acts: Willie Nelson, Dierks Bently, Ryan Bingham and Josh Abbott Band. General admission tickets for the 41st annual festival are on sale now. Gates open at 11 a.m. and the music ends at midnight.

Cool off at Panther Island Pavilion (PIP) – the only waterfront stage in Texas every Thursday evening, June 5 through August 7, for Rockin' the River – Live on the Trinity. Concert-goers can float up to the best seat in the house during the free summer music and tubing series or stayed docked on land with a blanket and brew in hand. Six pack coolers are available to help keep beverages cold during the float, making it the perfect place to cool off during the hot, Texas summer. PIP is also home to a variety of watersports, including Standup Paddle Boarding (SUP), wakeboarding, kayaking and more.

Visit the Fort Worth Museum of Science and History with the family, where Indiana Jones™ and the Adventure of Archaeology: The Exhibition is on display through August. Showcasing items from four different movie collections while educating museum-goers on the exciting field of archaeology, the museum is the perfect place to bring the family during vacation. Admission tickets are $21 for adults and $17 for children.

Gear up for the safari of a lifetime at Fossil Rim Wildlife Center! Located one hour southwest of Fort Worth, animal lovers will find a sprawling 1,800-acre preserve, with over 1,100 endangered animals roaming free in their herds. Stay in the car or reserve a spot on a leisurely guided tour along the 9.5 mile scenic drive as giraffes, ostriches, bison and more walk alongside. Fossil Rim is open from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. in the summer. Admission for family guided tours is $32 per person, with multiple guided tours available to choose from.

Reminiscent of an early Fort Worth, the Fort Worth Nature Center & Refuge boasts over 3,600 acres, 20 miles of hiking trails and is one of the largest city-owned nature centers in the United States. Take a hike with the family while experiencing the area's natural vegetation and wildlife, including alligators and lizards, butterflies and bison. *Known as the original Fort Worth Herd – not to be confused with the Fort Worth Herd's twice-daily cattle drive of longhorns in the Stockyards National Historic District – the center's bison herd of 31 celebrated its 40th year in Fort Worth last November. Bison hayrides are offered periodically throughout the year, allowing riders an up-close-and-personal experience.

#DiscoverFortWorth this summer, and find your inner cowboy. For additional information on Fort Worth, summer events and attractions or high-resolution photography, please email jessicadowdy@fortworth.com.

“Dine About Town” returns to San Francisco June 1-15, 2014

 “Dine About Town” – San Francisco's own Restaurant Week – returns for a second helping on June 1-15, 2014.

Now in its 13th year, this popular program presents more than 100 of San Francisco's best restaurants offering two or three-course lunch menus for $18.95 and/or three-course dinner menus for $36.95, prices representing up to

25 percent off  regularly priced a la carte items. 

“'Dine About Town' restaurants are located in 21 different neighborhoods of San Francisco.  This is such a good value, you could eat your way across the city,” explains Joe D'Alessandro, president and CEO of the San Francisco Travel Association which has produced “Dine About Town” since it began in January of 2002. 

“Most 'Restaurant Weeks' happen in January but San Francisco's 'Dine About Town' is so big that it actually happens twice a year and last for two weeks each time,” D'Alessandro said.

The participating restaurants include two with Michelin stars (Luce and Spruce) and twelve others that are Michelin rated (Absinthe, Café de la Presse, Chapeau!, Chaya Brasserie, Dosa on Fillmore, Fringale, Georges, Marlowe, One Market, Skool, Sociale and Waterbar).

The complete restaurant list for “Dine About Town San Francisco” and reservations are available beginning May 1 at www.dineabouttown.com, a website of the San Francisco Travel Association.   The list can be searched by neighborhood, cuisine, vegetarian options and lunch or dinner offerings.   Through a partnership with Open Table, reservations (strongly recommended) can be made directly from the “Dine About Town” pages.  

Dates and times of participation vary by restaurant. A la carte menus will also be available.  Information is also available by calling 415-391-2000. American Express is the preferred method of payment for Dine About Town.

The San Francisco Travel Association is the official tourism marketing organization for the City and County of San Francisco. For information on reservations, packages, activities and more, visit www.sanfrancisco.travel or call 415-391-2000.  The Visitor Information Center is located at 900 Market St. in Hallidie Plaza, lower level, near the Powell Street cable car turnaround.

For an insider's perspective, join more than 555,000 people who follow San Francisco Travel on Facebook at www.facebook.com/onlyinsf and over 100,000 who follow “OnlyinSF” on Twitter at http://twitter.com/onlyinsf. 

American Express® is the official Card partner for the San Francisco Travel Association. 

San Francisco International Airport (SFO) offers non-stop flights to more than 31 international points on 30 international carriers. The Bay Area's largest airport connects non-stop with 76 cities in the U.S. on 15 domestic airlines. For up-to-the-minute departure and arrival information, airport maps and details on shopping, dining, cultural exhibitions, and more, visit www.flysfo.com.  Visit SFO on Facebook at www.facebook.com/flySFO.

It's Lights, Camera, Action for Yosemite Gold Country/Tuolumne County

It's Lights, Camera, Action for Yosemite Gold Country/Tuolumne County, California!  Tuolumne County is located just two and a half hours east of San Francisco and two hours south of Sacramento.  Over half of Yosemite National Park is located in Tuolumne County.  In addition to Yosemite, Tuolumne County is home to Gold Rush towns, two state

parks, eclectic shopping, wine tasting, fun dining, four-season recreation, scenic vistas and a variety of excellent lodging opportunities.  All these wonderful amenities have helped shape Tuolumne County's rich film history and make it a great destination for current film projects.

Tuolumne County is a magnet for film enthusiasts.  Over 300 feature films, television show and commercials have been made in Tuolumne County.  As early as 1919, filmmakers recognized the area as a valuable and convenient source of locations rich in diverse natural features and vintage architectural styles.  They discovered that almost any type of scenery in the United States and beyond could be duplicated in Tuolumne County.

Movies and TV shows filmed here include:  High Noon(Grace Kelly and Gary Cooper), Little House on the Prairie, Bonanza and Highway to Heaven (Michael Landon), The Red Pony (Henry Fonda and Maureen O'Hara), The Great Race(Jack Lemmon), Big Valley (Barbara Stanwyck), Lassie (June Lockhart), Rawhideand Unforgiven (Clint Eastwood) and Back to the Future III (Michael J. Fox).

One of the most popular filming locations, especially for westerns, is Railtown 1897 State Historic Park, which is also known as “The Movie Railroad.”  The State Park is home to one of the most photographed locomotives in the world, Sierra #3.  Perhaps the most famous scene was pushing a DeLorean time machine down the tracks in Back to the Future III.  Visitors to the park can view movie memorabilia and photos and see  Sierra #3 up close and personal.

Another very popular location for filming is Columbia State Historic Park.  Add a little dirt to the streets of this authentic gold rush town and it is suddenly transformed back to the 1800's.  Meticulously preserved buildings have led Columbia to doubling as many cities of the 1800s era including New York and Chicago.  In the television series, Little House on the Prairie, the town became Sleepy Eye, Minnesota and in the classic western, High Noon, it was known as Hadleyville.  The Wilson-McConnell House in Columbia is where Marshall Will Kane (Gary Cooper) tries to recruit Sam Fuller (Henry Morgan, aka Colonel Sherman Potter in  M*A*S*H*).

There are additional filming locations throughout the County and the Tuolumne County Film Map helps visitors to find those locations and take a step with the stars.  The Movie Map is available at both Visitor Center locations:  Sonora and Chinese Camp. 

Tuolumne County also boasts two film festivals:  The ITSA Film Festival which takes place in November and is one of the hottest short film festivals in central California.  Festival goers can attend panels and workshops, watch films and meet industry professionals in historic downtown Sonora venues.  Film Fest Twain Harte takes place over Labor Day Weekend and focuses on western-inspired productions.

The American Adventure is top of the list for Aussie Travellers

STA Travel today revealed the USA has surged in popularity among Australian travellers, with the number of people journeying across the Pacific jumping 17.5% in 2013.

This comes on top of 11.9% rise in 2012 which highlights America’s ever-growing appeal to Australians. The US Office of Travel and Tourism Industries has also projected almost 1.26 million Australians will travel to the US in 2014. If numbers continue to grow as predicted over 1.5 million Aussies will be making the trip in 2017.

New York also recently snapped up the number one position as the most desirable travel destination in STA Travel’s annual Australian traveller survey of 2,616 Australians. This is no surprise seeing as though the city, which is well-known as being like no other city, lured 8.5% more Australians in 2013 and for the past three years it came in 4^th most popular in departures.

“We are expecting New York to attract even more Aussie tourists in 2014. With world famous tourist attractions, nightlife, events, shopping and cuisine, Australians are increasingly inspired to travel to the USA and experience the city that never sleeps for themselves,” said David Green, Managing Director, STA Travel Australia. “These figures are really exciting and make our partnership with Brand USA all the more important in 2014.”

The rising popularity may also have been spurred by Australians enjoying less expensive travel to the USA; return flights to Los Angeles are currently at record lows with return prices dropping as low as $829. While the Australian dollar has dipped since its all-time high of $1.10 in July 2011, it is currently sitting just above 90 cents. This is still a strong exchange rate compared to historical averages of around 76 cents and continues to encourage those Australians who like to hit the shops in the USA to stock up on retail goods that are generally available at cheaper prices than in Australia.

More Australians than ever before are also shunning the hordes of tourists and higher prices that characterise the peak summer months by getting hot for cold American destinations. This is reflected in figures showing a 63% increase in the number of STA Travel customers going on a tour during the USA winter, including popular seasonal trips like New Years in New York.

Another emerging trend is for Australians to stay in the USA for longer, sometimes for a month or more, and this has resulted in STA Travel seeing a rise of 57% in bookings for trips that span the massive country from coast to coast.

“Many Aussie travellers are realising that America is very large and diverse and has much more than just its sprawling and famous metropolis’ to offer,” added Green. “They are travelling to the U.S for longer so they can explore further afield than the big cities in order to discover the many National Parks, small towns and road tripping all those long roads.”

STA Travel works with Brand USA to encourage travellers to journey to the United States and recently held a competition which sent three groups of winners from around the globe on a 43 day Uncover Discover USA Road Trip. The lucky travellers were accompanied by a professional film crew who recorded their journey. You can follow their road trip at youtube.com/statravel.

For more information about STA Travel and Brand USA visit: http://www.statravel.com.

Get Inspired! Santa Barbara Celebrates Public Gardens in May: Santa Barbara Public Gardens Group Offers County-Wide Activities Throughout May 2014

“Get inspired!” is the rallying cry heard from Santa Barbara's many public gardens, who have collaborated to offer special tours, free admission, exhibits, lectures, and other activities in conjunction with not only National Public Gardens Day on Friday, May 9, 2014, but also for the whole month of May at various locations in Santa Barbara County.

There's So Much to Do and See for FREE in May!As part of Santa Barbara Public Gardens Appreciation Month, the public is invited to attend a myriad of activities which encourage the community to explore the diverse gardens Santa Barbara is lucky to have in its county.  There is something for everyone!  Including:

• Docent-led garden tours, flowers shows, and special exhibits
• Special “garden design” tour of Casa del Herrero
• Once-in-a-lifetime events such as “Cacti & Cocktails” at Lotusland
• Garden Talks - learn about everything from bees to water conservation to historical presentations
• Hands-on activities such as the Bonsai Workshop at Santa Barbara Botanic Garden
• Family friendly activities - craft projects, bird-watching, tree walks and other fun
  

For a complete list of activities please visit www.sbpublicgardens.org.

National Public Gardens Day is Friday, May 9, 2014
Get outside and celebrate!  Sponsored nationally by American Public Gardens Association (APGA), National Public Gardens Day showcases the contributions of these incredible spaces with special events throughout our community. Admission to locations is available by downloading a coupon at:http://nationalpublicgardensday.org/

“Garden City, USA”With the support of Santa Barbara Beautiful and Visit Santa Barbara the collaboration hopes the effort will ultimately become a year-round marketing vehicle for promoting Santa Barbara County as an elite garden destination for horticultural tourism.

“Santa Barbara Public Gardens Partnership is a county-wide collaboration whose mission is to promote awareness of our unique and inspiring public gardens, celebrate their beauty and benefits, and encourage their year-round enjoyment by visitors and residents of the Santa Barbara community.”

Santa Barbara Public Gardens Partnership includes: Casa del Herrero, City of Santa Barbara Parks & Recreation, Ganna Walska Lotusland, Rancho La Patera & Stow House, Santa Barbara Botanic Garden, Santa Barbara Chamber of Commerce, City of Santa Barbara Water Conservation Program, Santa Barbara Visitors Center, Santa Barbara Zoological Gardens, Visit Santa Barbara, Simpson House Inn, Cactus & Succulent Society, Santa Barbara Garden Club, Old Mission Santa Barbara, and UCCE Master Gardeners of Santa Barbara County.  Sponsors include: KEYT, Montecito Journal, Santa Barbara Sentinel, Santa Barbara Independent, Santa Barbara News-Press, Noozhawk, Casa Magazine, Parentclick.com, MTD, California Cut Flower Commission, Ocean View Flowers, and PIP Printing.

The Partnership will continue to build on its success for years to come as a grassroots, public gardens collaboration dedicated to the exploration of and connection to nature through community engagement.

A Little History on the CollaborationThe genesis of the future NPGD steering committee was created in 2011 by Molly Barker, Gwen Stauffer, and Steve Windhager, Executive Directors of Casa del Herrero, Ganna Walska Lotusland, and the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden, respectively. Always on the lookout for promotional opportunities to leverage their messages and visibility, and aware that each venue had more to gain by working together than apart, the seed of an idea was born.

As the 2012 NPGD approached, the three brainstormed ways to make the day a multi-garden event. Looking outward into the community, they realized other organizations, (such as City of Santa Barbara Parks and Recreation, and Santa Barbara Zoo) also represented gardens and green spaces and took an inclusive approach with the broadest possible definition of what constitutes a “public garden”.  Like-minded organizations such as UCCE Master Gardeners of Santa Barbara County were also brought into the fray and provided valuable resources in the form of expertise and docent-volunteers. Santa Barbara Foundation, Santa Barbara Beautiful, and the PARC Foundation all came on-board as local sponsors and provided financial support which made the first year possible.

To arrange interviews, request high-res images or broadcast quality B-roll, please call Joni Kelly, 805-682-4726 ext. 132 or 805-886-1869. For more information about National Public Gardens Day, visit www.nationalpublicgardensday.org. Visitwww.sbpublicgardens.org for information on how to participate locally.

New York CityPASS: A Must-have Item for Your Big Apple Vacation Toolkit

For both first-time and repeat visitors, one indispensible item for any Big Apple vacation toolkit is a New York CityPASS® ticket booklet. Not only does the booklet contain prepaid discount admission to the city's most iconic, must-see sights, it gives vacationers front-of-the line access to some of New York City's most popular attractions.

Each New York CityPASS booklet, which saves 41 percent off combined admission to the included attractions, contains tickets to the Empire State Building (day/night entry to the 86th–floor observatory),

American Museum of Natural History, The Metropolitan Museum of Art (includes same-week admission to The Cloisters museum and gardens), The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA), a choice between Top of the Rock observation deck and Guggenheim Museum, and a choice between Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island or a Circle Line Sightseeing Cruise.

For incredible views of the Hudson River and the New Jersey Palisades beyond, visitors should be sure to build in a visit to The Cloisters, the Metropolitan's branch museum dedicated to the art and architecture of medieval Europe. The museum, which recently celebrated its 75th anniversary, incorporates elements of actual medieval buildings to create a harmonious and evocative setting for its renowned collection. The equally stunning gardens reflect gardens and plants represented in works of art from the Middle Ages.

New York CityPASS ticket booklets cost $109 for adults (value $185); $82 for youth, age 6-17. Ticket booklets can be purchased online at CityPASS.com or at any of the participating attractions. Ticket booklets are valid for nine consecutive days, beginning with the first day of use, which leaves plenty of time to enjoy the best of New York City.

For more than 15 years, CityPASS ticket booklets and admission cards have been premier products for travelers who want to visit a destination's top attractions, while enjoying significant savings of up to 50 percent. CityPASS booklets/cards, which have a 95 percent customer recommendation rating, are available for New York, Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Houston, Philadelphia, San Francisco, Seattle, Southern California, Tampa Bay and Toronto. For more information, visit CityPASS.com.

L.A. Tourism Celebrates the One-Year Anniversary of Car Free l.a. With New Car Free Inspired Travel Packages

 L.A. Hotels from Marina Del Rey and Beverly Hills to Hollywood and Mid-City are Encouraging Travelers to Step Out of their Cars to Explore Los Angeles

Earth Day 2014 marks the one-year anniversary of Car Free LA – an eco-tourism initiative designed by The Los Angeles Tourism & Convention Board that offers travelers a variety of free itineraries centered around exploring Los Angeles' various neighborhoods, attractions and hidden gems by walking, biking and taking the METRO. In celebration of this major milestone, L.A. Tourism has partnered with nine hotels across the city to curate exclusive

spring and summer travel packages inspired by the Car Free L.A. program – making it easy for visitors to stay and experience Los Angeles without relying on a car.

W Hollywood Hotel, Hotel Angeleno, The Beverly Garland, Hilton Universal, Kimpton's Hotel Palomar Los Angeles – Westwood and The Hotel Wilshire, Jamaica Bay Inn, Chamberlain West Hollywood and Sportsmen's Lodge Hotel are rolling out Car Free L.A.-inspired packages giving guests the tools they need to plan the perfect car-free vacation. Guests will have the opportunity to explore the city in a new way and experience unique activities that would otherwise be missed from behind the wheel, including museum madness walking tours, stand-up paddle boarding, complimentary bike rentals, and much more. To book a Car Free LA hotel package or download complimentary Car Free LA vacation itineraries, visit www.discoverLosAngeles.com/CarFreeLA.

Car Free LA-inspired hotel packages include:

Westside: Kimpton's The Hotel Wilshire and Hotel Palomar Los Angeles–Westwood – 'Car-free, Carefree!' 
Equal parts hidden escape and city vibe, The Hotel Wilshire is located just minutes from Beverly Hills and Museum Row and boasts unforgettable views of the Hollywood Hills from its rooftop pool and lounge. Venture west on Los Angeles' famed Wilshire Blvd to experience The Hotel Wilshire's sister property, Hotel Palomar Los Angeles–Westwood in swank Westwood Village. No matter what location travelers choose, these properties offer a seamless car free experience with the return of their 'Car-Free, Carefree!' package, including:
• Welcome Amenity: a pedometer, two bottles of water, a healthy snack and sunscreen
• Car-free map of the neighborhood
• Complimentary valet parking
• Bounce back offer: If guests show the Front Desk they walked at least 10,000 steps per day with their pedometer, they will receive a special code for 20% off of room rate during their next stay. The bounce back offer can be redeemed within one year of a guest's stay.

Availability: now through October 31, 2014
Starting Rates: Hotel Wilshire $299 per night + tax; Hotel Palomar LA: $259 per night + tax

Westside: Hotel Angeleno – 'LA Our Way'
Located at the crossroads of Santa Monica, Beverly Hills and UCLA, Hotel Angeleno offers culture, warmth and unparalleled views of the city. Guests are invited to book the 'LA Our Way' package and enjoy an exclusive insider's guide, titled 'We Are Not Square,' highlighting activities including museum madness tours and a 'how-to bar hop' tip sheet. The package includes:
• 'We Are Not Square' guide
• Fanny pack with the following items: sunglasses, bottled water, protein bar and sunscreen
• Power breakfast at West Restaurant & Lounge
• The hotel will donate 5% of every package booked to the annual Lynne Cohen Foundation Kickin' Cancer Run/Walk
• Complimentary shuttle service within three miles

Availability: Now through December 30, 2014; blackout dates apply, advanced reservations necessary
Starting Rates: $269 per night + tax

The Valley: Hilton Universal – 'Car-Free Getaway' 
Located in the heart of the 'Entertainment Capital of Los Angeles' and just steps away from Universal Studios Hollywood, enjoying the California sunshine has never been more convenient. Hilton Los Angeles/Universal City's 'Car-Free Getaway' package is the perfect eco-friendly vacation for the corporate, family and leisure traveler. The package includes:
• Accommodations for two adults
• Welcome Amenity: a pedometer, two bottles of water and a healthy snack
• Bounce back offer: Guests that present to the Front Desk 10,000 steps on their pedometer during their stay will receive a code for 15% off their next visit

Availability: Now through October 30, 2014
Starting Rates: $169 plus tax

West Hollywood: Chamberlain West Hollywood – 'Urban Eco-Friendly Biking'
Chamberlain West Hollywood's Urban Eco-Friendly Biking package allows guest to save gas and see the sights. Recently voted most walkable city in California, West Hollywood boasts exceptional shopping, dining and entertainment, all located just moments away from this stylish boutique hotel. Package for two includes:
• One night stay in an Executive King Suite, spacious open floor plan with king bed and step down seating area, private balcony and fireplace
• Arrival amenity will be a Chef's surprise 
• Two 21 speed high end hybrid road bikes, helmets, safety vests, locks, self-guided tour map of West Hollywood, Beverly Hills and Bel Air supplied by Bikes and Hikes LA, plus an additional self-guided tour map to Santa Monica Beach
• Complimentary glass of wine at the rooftop pool
• Complimentary overnight valet parking

Availability: Now through October 31, 2014; book via phone at 310.657.7400 or 800.201.9652 or online at www.chamberlainwesthollywood.com 
Starting Rates: $289 per night + tax; based on one night stay

Hollywood: W Hollywood – 'Walk of Fame'
Located at the iconic intersection of Hollywood and Vine, W Hollywood rolls out the red carpet for fabulous parties and celebrity style-mixing. Guests who book the 'Walk of Fame' package are invited to enjoy a car free Hollywood adventure, by stepping outside and catching a show at the famous Art Deco movie house, the Pantages Theatre, reveling in the iconic Hollywood Walk of Fame, or easy access to numerous restaurants, shopping and nightlife. A metro stop is located directly below the hotel, which makes it easy to participate in green transit while also providing convenient access to Hollywood and Downtown Los Angeles. The package includes:
• Bliss Fabulous Feet Pedicure
• $10 TAP card for the METRO station
• “Wonderful” room starting from $279

Availability: Now through October 31, 2014; book now at whollywoodhotel.com/walkoffame or call 877 782 0104 and ask for promo code WLKFAME.
Starting Rates: $279 per night + tax

Beach Cities / LAX: Jamaica Bay Inn – 'Car Free' 
Tucked on the shores of the tranquil Marina del Rey, Jamaica Bay Inn is a refreshing retreat from L.A.'s hustle and bustle. With a design that resembles the colorful and relaxed style of a West Indies resort, vacationers are treated to an authentic vacation vibe. The 'Car Free' package allows guests to enjoy the serene setting as they splash through the Marina and explore popular destinations like Venice Beach and Santa Monica – all through the power of their own energy. The package includes:
• 20% off a two-night stay
• Complimentary daily breakfast for two at the acclaimed Beachside Restaurant & Bar ($50 max daily value)
• Complimentary bottled water
• Complimentary nightly self parking 
• One-hour stand up paddle boarding lesson for two 
• One day complimentary bicycle rentals for two

Availability: Now through October 31, 2014; reservations must be cancelled 72 hours prior to arrival date to avoid charge of one night room and tax charges. PROMO CODE: CARFREE
Starting Rates: $239 per night + tax with a two night minimum

The Valley: The Beverly Garland – 'Car Free, No Worries' 
Walk into The Beverly Garland and be instantly transported to a secluded, urban oasis, yet close to all the action and excitement of Hollywood, Universal Studios and LA's best attractions. Guests booking the 'Car Free, No Worries' package can find their way along the streets of L.A. with a walking map and complimentary trolley service to the METRO station. The package includes:
• One-night stay in standard accommodations
• Walking map of the neighborhood area
• Welcome amenity water bottle & trail mix
• Complimentary shuttle service to METRO line and Universal Studios

Availability: now through October 31, 2014, based on availability; blackout dates may apply
Starting Rates: $179 per night + tax

The Valley: Sportsmen's Lodge Hotel – Car Free L.A. 
The legendary halls at Sportsmen's Lodge pre-date the film industry and have been graced by the likes of Katherine Hepburn and Clark Gable. Today, guests searching for the true Hollywood experience can book this package and enjoy full-service accommodations only minutes from the best San Fernando Valley attractions. Located on Ventura Boulevard, guests are just minutes from Universal Studios, Burbank airport, Hollywood, Beverly Hills, couture L.A. shopping and numerous beaches. The package includes:
• Hotel Accommodations
• American Breakfast
• Complimentary Bicycle use for the day
• Bottle of Water

Availability: Now through October 31, 2014 based on availability, blackout dates may apply
Starting Rates: $199 + tax

For more information about travel experiences in Los Angeles, go to the official visitor information website of the Los Angeles Tourism & Convention Board at www.discoverLosAngeles.com, join the more than one million people who follow LA Tourism's Facebook page at facebook.com/LosAngelesFan or follow @discoverLA on Twitter and Instagram and become a part of the conversation with #CarFreeLA.

San Francisco is never the same, but it's always San Francisco

San Francisco is changing and evolving every day, but the reasons that millions of visitors leave their hearts there never change.   A look at some of the events and attractions available this spring illustrates the San Francisco Travel Association's new theme, “Never the same.  Always San Francisco.”

Through May 25, the Asian Art Museum presents Yoga: The Art of Transformation, the first major art exhibition to explore yoga and its historical transformation over the past 2,500 years through more than 130 rare and compelling artworks. Millions of people around the world practice yoga to find spiritual insight and improved health. While many are aware of yoga's origins in India, few may know about its philosophical underpinnings or its fascinating history over thousands of years. Yoga: The Art of Transformation goes beyond postures and delves into how yoga has evolved into a global phenomenon through an exploration of its visual history. Borrowed from 25 museums and private collections in Europe, the U.S. and India, the artworks featured in the exhibition date from the 2nd to the 20th centuries. Images ranging from benevolent deities and gurus to Tantric goddesses and sinister yogis reveal how yoga practices—and perceptions of them—have transformed over time and across communities.   Learn more athttp://www.asianart.org/exhibitions_index/yoga.

 
Not into yoga?  The Asian Art Museum holds one of the most comprehensive collections of Asian art in the world.   Spanning cultures from Turkey to India and China to the Philippines through 6,000 years, the collection provides a panorama of Asian art and culture. Artworks on view range from tiny jades to monumental sculptures, and include superb paintings, porcelains, arms and armor, furniture, textiles, and bronzes.

 
An architectural masterpiece itself, the de Young Museum in Golden Gate Park never ceases to inspire with it breathtaking views from the ninth-floor observation level or its collection of more than 27,000 works of art.  It is renowned for its holdings in American art of all periods, including painting, sculpture, decorative arts, and works on paper; the art of Africa, Oceania, and the Americas; and costumes and textiles representing a wide variety of Eastern and Western traditions. 

 
The newest exhibition, Modern Nature: Georgia O'Keeffe and Lake George, organized by The Hyde Collection in association with the Georgia O'Keeffe Museum, brings 55 paintings on view only through May 11. This is the first major exhibition to examine the body of work that Georgia O'Keeffe (1887‒1986) created based on her experiences at Lake George in upstate New York. From 1918 until 1934, O'Keeffe lived for part of each year at the 36-acre family estate of Alfred Stieglitz (1864‒1946) on Lake George in New York's Adirondack Park, situated near Lake George Village along the western shoreline.   During this highly productive period she created more than 200 paintings in addition to sketches and pastels, making her Lake George years among the most prolific and transformative of her seven-decade career. This period coincided with O'Keeffe's first critical and popular acclaim as a professional artist, helped define her personal style, and affirmed her passion for natural subject matter prior to her well-known move to the Southwest.  Learn more atwww.deyoungmuseum.org/okeeffe.

 
While most visitors to San Francisco have probably seen the sea lions lounging at PIER 39, the new the Sea Lion Center at the north end puts the playful pinnipeds in a whole new perspective.   The Center is a free nature center where guests can learn about the world famous California sea lions that inhabit the docks on the northwest side of the pier.  Operated and managed by Aquarium of the Bay, the Sea Lion Center overlooks Pier 39's K-Dock, the usual hangout of these charismatic mammals that mysteriously made this their home in January 1990, shortly after the Loma Prieta earthquake. The Sea Lion Center features interactive displays, educational videos, fascinating presentations and one- on-one interactions with naturalists. Guests can touch real sea lion artifacts including pelts and skulls, and size themselves up next to a life-size sea lion skeleton. For information visit www.aquariumofthebay.org.

 
Sea lions aren't the only ones having fun in the water at the pier.   Passengers on  Bay Voyager, a 28-foot custom RIB (rigid-hulled inflatable boat), get a unique tour of historic landmarks, ecological sights and sounds, and stunning landscapes of San Francisco Bay.  Learn more at http://bayvoyager.com.

 
Additionally, Blue & Gold Fleet's popular Bay Cruise Adventure and Escape from the Rock cruises will feature a new multi-language audio tour, available mid-July 2014. Tours will be offered in English, Spanish, Mandarin, Italian, French, Japanese, Korean, German and Taiwanese.  Learn more atwww.blueandgoldfleet.com.

 
Seeing the city's landmarks and neighborhoods from the open top deck of Bus Tours' hop-on/hop-off tour is almost like seeing them for the first time.  The tour stops at 20 major sites and attractions around the city, including crossing the Golden Gate Bridge. The entire loop is 2.5 hours but passengers can get on and off the bus at any of the stops around the city, explore the personalities of the various neighborhoods and discover hidden gems alongside the city's famous icons.  Learn more at www.bigbustours.com.

 
In May,  a bit of San Francisco will be seen throughout  the most scenic regions on the west coast as Amtrak's Coast Starlight train will be wrapped in a scene of San Francisco's famous cable car on the train traveling its north-south route.  Amtrak is offering a 15% discount from select trains in the west (Coast Starlight, California Zephyr, San Joaquin and Capitol Corridor)  to San Francisco through May 31, 2014. To book a trip, visit www.sanfrancisco.travel/AlwaysSF.

 
In partnership with Booking.com, San Francisco Travel offers special deals on a wide variety of hotels in and around San Francisco.  Reservations can be made with confidence at www.sanfrancisco.travel.

 
The San Francisco Travel Association is the official tourism marketing organization for the City and County of San Francisco. For information on reservations, activities and more, visit www.sanfrancisco.travel or call 415-391-2000.  The Visitor Information Center is located at 900 Market St. in Hallidie Plaza, lower level, near the Powell Street cable car turnaround.

American Express® is the official Card partner of the San Francisco Travel Association.

San Francisco International Airport (SFO) offers non-stop flights to more than 31 international cities on 30 international carriers. The Bay Area's largest airport connects non-stop with 76 cities in the U.S. on 15 domestic airlines. SFO is proud to offer upgraded free Wi-Fi with no advertising. For up-to-the-minute departure and arrival information, airport maps and details on shopping, dining, cultural exhibitions, ground transportation and more, visit www.flysfo.com. Follow us on www.twitter.com/flysfo  and www.facebook.com/flysfo.

TripAdvisor Users Rank Chicago Number Two for Top U.S. Destination in the Sixth Annual Traveler's Choice Destination Awards

 TripAdvisor announced its 2014 top U.S. destinations as voted by traveler reviews, putting Chicago at number two, surpassing San Francisco in this year's ranking.

Travelers' Choice Destinations honor top travel spots worldwide based on the millions of valuable reviews and opinions from TripAdvisor travelers. Award winners were determined using an algorithm that took into account the quantity and quality of reviews and ratings for hotels, attractions and restaurants in destinations worldwide, gathered over a 12-month period.

“The City of Chicago is thrilled to take the second spot on TripAdvisor's Top U.S. Destination in their annual Traveler's Choice Destination Awards. From our hotels and restaurants to festivals and conventions, Chicago is home to some of the best attractions that the country has to offer, and our ranking is a reflection of that. Expanding tourism in Chicago is a key part of creating local jobs and growing the Chicago economy, which is why we have significantly increased our investments in tourism and set a goal of 55 million visitors to the city annually by 2020.”

“This ranking is another indicator that Chicago continues to deliver a memorable experience for visitors,” said Don Welsh, President and CEO of Choose Chicago. “Chicago continues to reinvent and elevate itself as a leading destination for domestic and international travelers.  Our market is responding to the heightened demand in leisure tourism with highly anticipated hotel openings this year, including the world's first Virgin Hotel.”


Here are the top cities from the Travelers' Choice U.S. list:


1. New York, New York
2. Chicago, Illinois
3. San Francisco, California
4. Las Vegas, Nevada
5. New Orleans, Louisiana
6. Los Angeles, California
7. San Diego, California
8. Seattle, Washington
9. Washington, D.C.
10. Orlando, Florida
11. Honolulu, Hawaii
12. Houston, Texas
13. Charleston, South Carolina
14. Boston, Massachusetts
15. Portland, Oregon
16. San Antonio, Texas
17. Palm Springs, California
18. Austin, Texas
19. Branson, Missouri
20. Atlanta, Georgia
21. Phoenix, Arizona
22. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
23. Saint Louis, Missouri
24. Nashville, Tennessee
25. Miami Beach, Florida

U.S. Travel Hails Bipartisan Move to Extend Brand USA

The U.S. Travel Association today hailed the introduction of Travel Promotion, Enhancement and Modernization Act of 2014, which would reauthorize Brand USA—a non-profit, public-private partnership dedicated to increasing inbound international travel to the United States.

The program, according to Oxford Economics, generates an estimated $47 in economic benefits for every $1 spent on travel promotion. It is funded by international visitor fees and private matching funds, with no costs being

borne by U.S. taxpayers. The bill, co-sponsored by Sens. Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.) and Roy Blunt (R-Mo.) and Reps. Gus Bilirakis (R-Fla.) and Peter Welch (D-Vt.), would reauthorize the program until 2020.

"Through partnerships with America's communities and states, Brand USA has been a powerful force in promoting our nation's destinations around the world and attracting more international visitors and their dollars," said Roger Dow, president and CEO of the U.S. Travel Association. "What's more remarkable, the program delivers these benefits all without costing U.S. taxpayers one dime."

In 2013, Brand USA increased inbound international travel to the United States by 2.3 percent, resulting in 1.1 million additional trips to America. The additional visitation spurred by Brand USA resulted in an estimated $3.4 billion in new visitor spending and $7.4 billion in increased economic output, supported more than 53,000 U.S. jobs and generated $972 million in local, state and federal tax revenue.

The program's impact is especially noteworthy considering that before 2010, the United States was the only major travel destination worldwide that did not have a national travel and tourism marketing organization.

Said Dow: "We have the evidence that states and communities stand to benefit immensely from the renewal of this tested, proven program. Thank you, Senators Klobuchar and Blunt and Representatives Bilirakis and Welch, for sponsoring this common-sense bill to ensure that Brand USA—which works for America—is here to stay. We look forward to working closely with Hill offices to pass this legislation this year."

Click here to learn more about Brand USA.

Contacts: 
Chris Kennedy, (O) 202.218.3603, (C) 202.465.6635
Cathy Keefe, (O) 202.408.2183, (C) 703.899.7031

National Geographic Travel and Brand USA Team Up for Great American Road Trip

The National Geographic Travel group and Brand USA, the nation's destination marketing organization, announced a digital campaign developed to showcase iconic road trips across America to the international travelers. Through the campaign, Andrew Evans, National Geographic Travel's Digital Nomad, will be embarking on five awe-inspiring road trips that showcase the beauty, bounty and unique travel experiences one can expect from the American open road. The partnership was announced today at the Brand USA press conference held at U.S. Travel's annual IPW conference in Chicago.

“I have always been fascinated by road trips and feel that there can be no better way to see the real heart and soul of the United States than by driving cross-country,” said Evans. “I will document my experiences and the people and places that touch me along the way in real-time using various social media channels, so that my followers may embark on this once-in-a-lifetime journey with me.”

“One of the best ways to discover and experience the USA is by car and that's why we've enlisted the support of National Geographic Traveler and Digital Nomad, Andrew Evans to take us along for a ride,” said Christopher Thompson, Brand USA's president and CEO.  “Andrew will help tell the story of the USA by car as he travels along 23 destinations reporting his experience through Brand USA and National Geographic's digital channels.”

 Evans begins his journey today in Chicago traveling the famed Route 66. From now until May 10, Evans will tweet, blog, vlog and “Instagram” on NationalGeographic.com's Digital Nomad blog (http://digitalnomad.nationalgeographic.com), his Twitter feed @WheresAndrew and his Where's Andrew Facebook page throughout his trip through Illinois, Missouri, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona and California. The Digital Nomad site will also feature an interactive map tracking Evans' whereabouts throughout his journey. Evans will also upload videos and photo galleries from each of the cities and states he visits.

Four additional road trips the Digital Nomad will be documenting throughout the year are Rhythms of the South, the Northeast Corridor, Mountains and Prairies, and Western Trails.