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                                                                                                                                                     Air France presents the SAQ Wine and Dine Experience, 11th edition
The MONTREAL HIGH LIGHTS Festival welcomes Portugal, New Orleans and the Eastern Townships

Tickets for Culinary Events Now on Sale

Montreal, Quebec (Thursday, November 26, 2009) — The 11th annual MONTREAL HIGH LIGHTS Festival’s SAQ Wine and Dine Experience presented by Air France, Canada’s largest culinary showcase, is set to take place from Thursday, February 18 to Sunday, February 28, 2010. 

As part of its culinary program each year, the festival celebrates the gastronomy of a different country, a city and a region of Quebec by inviting top chefs, vintners and producers to take part in the many wine and dine events hosted throughout the city. This year the festival honours Portugal as the featured country, New Orleans as the featured city, and the Eastern Townships as the featured Quebec region.

The SAQ Wine and Dine Experience presented by Air France is the only event in the world where a city’s top chefs team with international chefs to design innovative menus and dining experiences. Since 2000, the festival has welcomed over 300 renowned chefs, wine producers and speakers from five continents to taken part in the Festival’s Finest Tables. With up to 50 of Montreal’s most popular restaurants taking part this year, the Festival’s Finest Tables feature theme tasting experiences, gourmet menus and amazing wine and food pairings.

In addition to wine and dine events, the MONTREAL HIGH LIGHTS Festival stages a series of events including the Sun Life Financial Performing Arts, BMO Bank of Montreal Celebration of Light and Nuit Blanche in Montreal Presented by Hydro-Québec. Attracting over 750,000 particpants over 11 days, the festival has grown into one of Canada’s largest winter city celebrations.

Welcome Portugal and the largest delegation ever to attend the Festival

The MONTREAL HIGH LIGHTS Festival is delighted to host a delegation of 39 Portuguese guest chefs and vintners, the largest group ever welcomed by the Festival, with Chef Fausto Airoldi as the Honorary President of the SAQ Wine and Dine Experience presented by Air France. Praised for his contemporary Portuguese cuisine and a major influence in Lisbon’s culinary revival, Airoldi follows in the footsteps of previous festival honorees: Alain Passard (Paris, 2009), Susur Lee (Toronto, 2008), Daniel Boulud (New York, 2007), Émile Jung (Alsace, 2006), Gualtiero Marchesi (Northern Italy, 2005), Georges Blanc (Rhône-Alpes, 2004), Santi Santamaria (Catalonia, 2003), Serge Dansereau (Australia, 2002), Charlie Trotter (Chicago, 2001) and Paul Bocuse (France, 2000). Chef Airoldi heads to Montreal with a dynamic delegation of 20 chefs and 18 wine producers under the banner of Portugal’s Finest Wines.

New Orleans, featured city

The Big Easy, Louisiana’s capital with its jazz, bustling streets and French Quarter, will transport its festive spirit and culinary flavours to the city for the MONTREAL HIGH LIGHTS Festival with guest chefs Michael Farrell (Le Meritage), Brian Landry (Galatoire’s), Donald Link (Cochon), Duke Locicero (Cafe’ Giovanni), Ian Schnoebelen (Iris) and Thomas Wolfe (Wolfe’s in the warehouse).

Eastern Townships, featured Quebec region

The Eastern Townships, the centre of Quebec’s budding wine industry, is known for its exquisite food products and fine restaurants. At Jean Talon Market on February 20 and 21, food and wine producers from the area will showcase the region’s local products with demonstrations, tastings and conferences. Chefs Geneviève Filion (Le Bouchon), Alain Labrie (La Table du Chef), Danny St-Pierre (Restaurant Auguste) and François Tourigny (La Table Tourigny) will also take part in the Festival’s Finest Tables.

Special Events

Honorary President Fausto Airoldi’s Dinners

Opening the Festival, Chef Fausto Airoldi of the chic Spot São Luiz in Lisbon’s Chiado area, will take over Ferreira Café for the much-anticipated Honorary President’s Dinners. Chef Airoldi, whose contemporary style reflects the essence and flavours of Portuguese cuisine, welcomes the collaboration of Chef Marino Tavares to present an inspired six-course menu paired with Portugal’s Finest Wines, including the highly rated Niepoort wines. Two evenings: Friday, February 19 and Saturday, February 20, starting at 6:30 p.m. Reservations: 514 848-0988 (Ferreira Café).

Portuguese Convivial

A decade after his first appearance at the MONTREAL HIGH LIGHTS Festival, Portuguese chef Vítor Sobral returns with an imaginative menu featuring the diverse products of sea and land from his native country. Diners will discover rich, flavourful dishes and an evening of warm Portuguese hospitality. Saturday, February 20, Salle de bal in Marché Bonsecours. Tickets: 514 908‑9090 / 1-866 908-9090, ticketpro.ca.

Crossroads of Flavour

For five days, Complexe Desjardins will be transformed into a huge marketplace with themed venues including a bakery, the mobile dairy Lait à la bouche, a general store and a liquor store, the Cellier de chez nous, along with chefs leading culinary workshops presented by T-Fal. The public will also have the unique opportunity to meet over 30 regional producers and artisans offering tastings, activities and gourmet suggestions. Tuesday, February 23 to Saturday, February 27, Complexe Desjardins. Free access.

The Festival of Quebec Cheeses

Not to be missed, the 5th edition of the Festival of Quebec Cheeses invites the public to taste a wide variety of Quebec’s fine cheeses and wine selections from Portugal’s Finest Wines. Quebec cheese makers will be on hand to discuss the regional qualities and character of their superb cheeses. Presented by Quebec Cheeses. Wednesday, February 17 to Saturday, February 20, Complexe Desjardins. Free admission.

Festival Lunch Menus

Nine restaurants including Byblos Le Petit Café, Kashmir, La Khaïma, Salon Mogador, Prato Pizzeria et Café, Restaurant Douro, Rumi, Ông Câ Cân and Stromboli will offer tantalizing dishes showcasing Montreal’s culinary diversity during the Festival Lunch Menus; three courses at prix fixe, $12.95. Monday, February 22 to Friday, February 26. Reservations: montrealhighlights.com.

New this year: Quebec Chefs and Cheeses

The MONTREAL HIGH LIGHTS Festival will stage the first-ever culinary competition of cheese. Four chef finalists will compete to create original dishes using local cheeses. Dinner guests will taste and judge all four courses paired with Portugal’s Finest Wines and vote for their favourite chef who will be awarded the $5000 grand prize. Presented by Quebec Cheeses, Saturday, February 27, 6:30 p.m., Grand Salon in Hyatt Regency Montreal. Tickets: ticketpro.ca.

About the MONTREAL HIGH LIGHTS Festival

Full details of the SAQ Wine and Dine Experience presented by Air France are available at  <http://www.montrealenlumiere.com/> montrealhighlights.com or by calling the HIGH LIGHTS Info Line (514-288-9955 or toll-free 1-888-477-9955).

The MONTREAL HIGH LIGHTS Festival unveils the Sun Life Financial Performing Arts program on November 30. Details of the BMO Bank of Montreal Celebration of Light and the Nuit Blanche à Montréal will be made public in early 2010. The 11th annual MONTREAL HIGH LIGHTS Festival will run from February 18 to February 28.

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Zürich Tourism Newsletter | November 18, 2009
Content:

ZürichCLASSICS music enjoyment<outbind://290/#1>
New Year’s Eve Magic 2009/2010 in Zürich <outbind://290/#2>
Zürich’s Museum of Fine Arts shows ‘Van Gogh’<outbind://290/#3>
Table reservations on zuerich.com<outbind://290/#4>
Agenda<outbind://290/#agenda>

Unbeatable prices for concert tickets and hotel accommodation

[http://crm.stnet.ch/content/campaign_data//content_149472131/image_149472205.img]<http://crm.stnet.ch/ct/rdc?rtg=http://hotels.zuerich.com/english/view_package.asp%3FIDPackage=171&bpid=125284644&nlid=-1&lid=149472206&paids=310,312,314,316,322,1238,7675959,8062735>
ZürichCLASSICS music enjoyment
Treat yourself to pure musical enjoyment with unforgettable hours in Zürich. Over 2,000 years of history, shopping fun, gourmet delights, and sumptuous symphonies to enjoy. ZürichCLASSICS - Zürich Tourism’s new offer -concert tickets combined with hotel accommodation at unbeatable prices.

Complete information on <http://crm.stnet.ch/ct/rdc?rtg=http://hotels.zuerich.com/english/view_package.asp%3FIDPackage=171&bpid=125284644&nlid=-1&lid=149472206&paids=310,312,314,316,322,1238,7675959,8062735>

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Highlight of the year staged by Zürich hoteliers

[http://crm.stnet.ch/content/campaign_data//content_149472131/image_149472235.img]<http://crm.stnet.ch/ct/rdc?rtg=http://www.zuerich.com/en/event_calendar/event_display.cfm%3Fevent_id=1699489&bpid=125284644&nlid=-1&lid=149472236&paids=360>
New Year’s Eve Magic 2009/2010 in Zürich
The legendary New Year’s Eve fireworks display.staged around Lake Zürich by Zürich hoteliers makes Switzerland’s biggest New Year’s Eve party a truly magical event. The celebrations begin at 8 pm with bars, parties, and culinary treats from around the world. This incredible spectacle is a wonderful experience for all who like to start the New Year in truly celebratory fashion.

Click here to find out more about this top event <http://crm.stnet.ch/ct/rdc?rtg=http://www.zuerich.com/en/event_calendar/event_display.cfm%3Fevent_id=1699489&bpid=125284644&nlid=-1&lid=149472236&paids=360>

[http://www.myswitzerland.com/sites/crm-zurich/top.gif]<outbind://290/#top>

The Stiftung Sammlung E.B. Bührle - the most important private collection

[http://crm.stnet.ch/content/campaign_data//content_149472131/image_149472251.img]<http://crm.stnet.ch/ct/rdc?rtg=http://www.zuerich.com/en/event_calendar/event_display.cfm%3Fevent_id=5344268&bpid=125284644&nlid=-1&lid=149472252&paids=9390700>
Zürich’s Museum of Fine Arts shows ‘Van Gogh’
From February 12 to May 16, 2010, Zürich’s Museum of Fine Arts hosts one of the world’s most important private collections - the Stiftung Sammlung E.G. Bührle. The collection focuses on French Impressionist and Post-Impressionist works and other 19th-century French painters. Visitors from home and abroad have a unique opportunity to discover this valuable private collection.

Complete information on this new offer<http://crm.stnet.ch/ct/rdc?rtg=http://www.zuerich.com/en/event_calendar/event_display.cfm%3Fevent_id=5344268&bpid=125284644&nlid=-1&lid=149472252&paids=9390700>

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Simple online reservations for eating out

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Table reservations on zuerich.com
NEW! The zuerich.com website now offers a facility for easy online reservation of tables at Zürich restaurants to ensure relaxed eating out. Zürich offers around 2,000 fantastic restaurants featuring culinary delicacies from around the world. They range from lifestyle restaurants, trendy gastronomic venues operating in converted factory halls, to Zürich specialty eateries in traditional guild halls. Zürich’s restaurants provide an amazing range of ambiences for you to enjoy. Book your table online now.

Click here for online table reservations for Zürich restaurants<http://crm.stnet.ch/ct/rdc?rtg=http://www.zuerich.com/en/page.cfm/restaurants/restaurants_x&bpid=125284644&nlid=-1&lid=149472310&paids=7656476,7656471,7656474,7656478,7656482,7656490>

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Agenda

Clowns & Calories
November 6, 2009 - January 30, 2010
The heavenly theater and food event ‘Clowns & Kalorien’ combines culinary delicacies with artistic show acts true to the quotation from legendary Charlie Chaplin: ‘A day without laughter is a lost day’.

more<http://crm.stnet.ch/ct/rdc?rtg=http://www.zuerich.com/en/event_calendar/event_display.cfm%3Fevent_id=3002805&bpid=125284644&nlid=-1&lid=149472464>

Salto Natale
November 11, 2009 - January 3, 2010
It’s now or never! Immerse yourself in a different world. In a circus full of memories, with glamor, humor, and breathtaking artistry. As always, this circus with a difference presents displays of the highest artistic and technical level. Everything is different: That’s the true nature of modern art.

more<http://crm.stnet.ch/ct/rdc?rtg=http://www.zuerich.com/en/event_calendar/event_display.cfm%3Fevent_id=1201648&bpid=125284644&nlid=-1&lid=149810499>

6-day race Zürich
December 15 - 20, 2009
A high-caliber team of riders awaits you at the 53rd Zürich 6-day race held at the Hallenstadion on the occasion of Bruno Risi’s retirement from a long career in professional cycling. The main event is accompanied by the ‘Zürich Bike Fashion and Fun Fair.’

more

<http://crm.stnet.ch/ct/rdc?rtg=http://www.zuerich.com/en/event_calendar/event_display.cfm%3Fevent_id=2211203&bpid=125284644&nlid=-1&lid=149472398>

BLUE MAN GROUP
From January 17, 2010
one of the most unusual and successful stage shows is coming to Zürich. The BLUE MAN GROUP will captivate you with its creativity, comedy, and engaging music. The show is unadulterated enjoyment, funny, intelligent - simply different.

more<http://crm.stnet.ch/ct/rdc?rtg=http://www.zuerich.com/en/event_calendar/event_display.cfm%3Fevent_id=4683660&bpid=125284644&nlid=-1&lid=149472348>

Switzerland Salsa Festival 2010
February 26 - 28, 2010
After 88 years of constant development, the Switzerland Salsa Festival is the top Salsa event in Europe and one of the largest and most famous Salsa congresses in the world.

more<http://crm.stnet.ch/ct/rdc?rtg=http://www.zuerich.com/en/event_calendar/event_display.cfm%3Fevent_id=5087516&bpid=125284644&nlid=-1&lid=149472412>

more events<http://crm.stnet.ch/ct/rdc?rtg=http://www.zuerich.com/en/event_calendar/index.cfm&bpid=125284644&nlid=-1&lid=149472330>
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Note:

This Newsletter is sent to you by Zürich Tourism. If you no longer wish to receive this Newsletter, you can unsubscribe by clicking on the link below. Zürich Tourism cannot be held liable for links to third-party websites and their contents.

Published by:

Zürich Tourism
P.O. Box
CH-8021 Zürich
Tel.               +41 44 215 40 00         +41 44 215 40 00

November 18, 2009Regular Ferry Service between Montserrat and Antigua Returns

The Government of Montserrat is pleased to announce the return of a permanent ferry service between Antigua and Montserrat from December 2^nd, 2009. The MV Deluxe out of Anguilla will provide short term ferry service during the December period.  The schedule for the MV deluxe commences on Wednesday December 02, 2009 with service Friday and Saturday for that first week and Mondays to Saturdays thereafter to December 31, 2009.  The expected departure from Montserrat on the MV Deluxe is 7:30 a.m. arriving in Antigua 8:45 a.m. and departing from Antigua approximately 5:30 p.m. arriving in Montserrat 6:45 p.m.

The ferry the MV Fjortof (photo below) will be partially owned by the Government of Antigua & Barbuda and the Government of Montserrat and operated by Twin Island Ferries Services Ltd (TIFS).  It will offer service all year round commencing in the latter half of December and will provide Montserrat with two (2) daily return trips on Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays (see Proposed Ferry Schedule below).  On the other days the ferry will be servicing the Antigua to Barbuda route.  However, additional sailings to Montserrat will be arranged as required for special events and other peak traffic periods.

Docking in Antigua for both ferry services will be at the Nevis Street Ferry Terminal which is next to Heritage Quay ferry and cruise terminal.  Both ferries are each capable of accommodating at least 100 persons comfortably, as well as light cargo and passenger baggage. 

The fares for the ferry service will be EC$150.00 for a one-way-trip (EC$300.00 for a return trip).

Special day trip packages utilising the ferry will also be available through day tour operators based in Antigua and Montserrat.

The Government of Montserrat is thankful to the Department for International Development (DFID) for its role in making the return of the ferry service possible through the provision of additional budgetary support.

PROPOSED FERRY SCHEDULE

NYC & COMPANY ANNOUNCES DETAILS OF NEW YEAR’S EVE CELEBRATION IN NEW
YORK CITY 

Times Square to be Focal Point for Hundreds of Thousands of Revelers and
Television Viewers on December 31

New York City (November 16, 2009)-NYC & Company, the official marketing,
tourism and partnership organization for New York City, today announced
activities surrounding the 2009 New Year’s Eve festivities. The year-end
celebration brings hundreds of thousands of people to Times Square, one
of the most famous gathering spots in the world. As visitors and
residents watch the world-famous New Year’s Eve Ball descend from the
flagpole atop One Times Square at midnight on the last day of the year,
the eyes of the world are squarely on New York City.

“There is no more exciting place to be on New Year’s Eve than Times
Square in New York City-and revelers will find even more space to spread
out, with this year’s closure of Times Square to traffic,” said George
Fertitta, CEO of NYC & Company.

The Times Square New Year’s Eve Ball is a 12-foot geodesic sphere
weighing 11,875 pounds. Covered in 2,668 Waterford crystals and powered
by 32,256 Philips LUXEON Rebel LED lights, the ball is capable of
creating a palette of more than 16 million vibrant colors and billions
of patterns, producing a spectacular kaleidoscopic effect atop One Times
Square. The ball has been on display since Jan. 1, 2009, and is a
year-round attraction for visitors from around the world.

More than 100 million television viewers in the United States and more
than 1 billion worldwide are expected to watch the ball drop, bringing
even more visibility to the Crossroads of the World.

The schedule for the New Year’s Eve festivities is as follows:

4pm

The Revelers

Revelers start arriving late in the afternoon on New Year’s Eve. By
approximately 4pm, the “bow tie” of Times Square (42nd-47th Streets,
between Broadway and Seventh Avenue) becomes a focal point for the
festivities. The NYPD will direct revelers to gather in separate viewing
sections. As one section fills up, police will direct new arrivals to
the next section. As the evening progresses, revelers continue to fill
the Times Square neighborhood along Broadway and Seventh Avenue, and as
far north as Central Park.

6-6:03 pm

Lighting and Raising the Times Square New Year’s Eve Ball

The celebration begins with the lighting and raising of the New Year’s
Eve Ball atop One Times Square.

11:59pm

The 60-Second Countdown

New York City Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg and the Times Square 2010
special guest (to be announced) will push the Waterford crystal button
that signals the descent of the New Year’s Eve Ball, and lead the
60-second countdown to the New Year atop the Countdown Stage at Duffy
Square (the center island from Broadway to Seventh Avenue between 46th
and 47th Streets).

Midnight

2010 Sign

At the stroke of midnight, the lights on the New Year’s Eve Ball are
turned off as the numerals “2010″ are illuminated high above Times
Square.

Several events will take place leading up to the ball drop, including:

Confetti Wishing Wall-The Confetti Wishing Wall will be at the Times
Square Information Center, located at Broadway between 46th and 47th
Streets). New Year’s Eve is a time when people of every background come
together to express a collective hope for renewal; a yearning for a
better personal or global future can sometimes take the form of
resolutions or wishes. With that in mind, visitors to the Information
Center are invited to write their wishes and resolutions for 2010 on
pieces of paper, which will be displayed on the wall. For those who
cannot make it to Times Square to add their wishes, a virtual wall has
been created at timessquarenyc.org <http://www.timessquarenyc.org/> . At
midnight on December 31, the wish papers will become part of the
confetti that rains down on the City. (Note: specific dates of Confetti
Wishing Wall to be posted at timessquarenyc.org)

Good Riddance Day-The co-organizers of New Year’s Eve in Times Square
(Times Square Alliance and Countdown Entertainment) are inviting the
public to say good-bye, once and for all, to those bad memories at the
third annual Good Riddance Day. Shredders will be available for use in
Duffy Square so everyone can discard their distasteful, embarrassing and
downright depressing memories from 2009. (Note: specific date of Good
Riddance Day to be posted at timessquarenyc.org)

For those seeking other New Year’s Eve entertainment options beyond
Times Square, Circle Line Sightseeing Cruises is offering a New Year’s
Eve party cruise, which includes a full open bar, hors d’oeuvres, a
nonstop DJ, party favors and a champagne toast at midnight. Tickets for
the three-hour cruise are $120 (must be 18 for the cruise, and 21 to
drink alcohol). For more information, click on the “special events”
section of circleline42.com.

If a New Year’s Eve run around Central Park appeals to you, check out
the Emerald Nuts Midnight Run, hosted by New York Road Runners. There
will be a DJ and dancing at 10pm, a costume parade and contest at 11pm,
and fireworks and a four-mile race at midnight. More information can be
found at nyrr.org.

Brooklyn residents and visitors can take part in the borough’s largest
New Year’s Eve party at Grand Army Plaza, which will include fireworks
and live music. The best viewing locations for the fireworks are within
Grand Army Plaza, along West Drive in Prospect Park, and along Prospect
Park West between Grand Army Plaza and Ninth Street. For more
information, go to prospectpark.org.

For more information about visiting New York City, check out the City’s
official tourism website at www.nycgo.com <http://www.nycgo.com/>

About NYC & Company:

NYC & Company is the official marketing, tourism and partnership
organization for the City of New York, dedicated to maximizing travel
and tourism opportunities throughout the five boroughs, building
economic prosperity and spreading the positive image of New York City
worldwide. For more information on visiting NYC, visit nycgo.com
<http://www.nycgo.com/> .

NYC & COMPANY ANNOUNCES

NYC RESTAURANT WEEK(r) WINTER DATES

FOR 2010

-Two-Week Program Returns with Same Great Prices-

Toronto (November 16, 2009)- NYC & Company, New York City’s marketing,
tourism and partnership organization, today announced dates for NYC
Restaurant Week Winter 2010. The semiannual event will run from January
25-February 7, 2010, with the same prices charged since 2006. Costs will
remain $24.07 for three-course prix-fixe lunches and $35 for
three-course prix-fixe dinners (excluding beverages, tax and gratuity).
NYC Restaurant Week Winter 2010 will run for two weeks this season,
excluding Saturdays; restaurants have the option to offer the program on
Sundays.

“We are excited to host for the 19th year New York City’s most acclaimed
and well-known dining event,” said NYC & Company CEO George Fertitta.
“New Yorkers and visitors alike look forward to our seasonal culinary
celebration. We encourage everyone to take advantage of the great food
at a great value and continue to support our local businesses.”

The first NYC Restaurant Week dates back to 1992, when it was developed
as a one-time culinary program. Since then, the citywide event has grown
to feature more than 250 participating restaurants, and currently stands
as the largest, oldest and most established restaurant week in the
world.

NYC Restaurant Week Winter 2010 is produced by NYC & Company and
supported by founding sponsor American Express(r) and participating
sponsor JetBlue Airways.

Visit nycgo.com/restaurantweek <http://www.nycgo.com/restaurantweek>
and twitter.com/nycgo <http://www.twitter.com/nycgo>  in the following
weeks for more information on participating restaurants, sample menus,
NYC Restaurant Week alerts and more.

About NYC & Company:

NYC & Company is the official marketing, tourism and partnership
organization for the City of New York, dedicated to maximizing travel
and tourism opportunities throughout the five boroughs, building
economic prosperity and spreading the positive image of New York City
worldwide.

Winter Holiday News 2009-2010
November 16, 2009 — Wanderlusts who are yearning to get away during the upcoming
holidays should look no further and book a trip to one of the many sun or ski destinations
below to ring in the festive season. With special holiday deals and offerings from
Saint Lucia to Switzerland to Jackson Hole and Salt Lake City, travelers have enough
reasons to get away this winter and create lasting memories with family and loved
ones into the New Year.
Saint Lucia

* Cap Maison [http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102825395981&s=8349&e=001vDD7XRlqsn1JZRbWM0A9_UUp3WVem9LhK-oLBi0HtvuUrnTK1-wRx5T68E4izMcycckROEEpYahkQflzkHYIhYHdryJIcCadHK1e7raUTs_uWjyreqlWWQ==]
is offering festive Christmas and New Year’s Eve prix fixe menus at Cliff  [http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102825395981&s=8349&e=001vDD7XRlqsn0lOmSsMeKJq-6ktJFNy8ni7tl5Ylk4dLBdh7CxpWShMdNt8L-FlPMIMazxniDpQncf0Jg-pxVzPMAjjbET8BXL-qtnprf1DjHVmPgEaGIFwA==]Cliff
at Cap [http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102825395981&s=8349&e=001vDD7XRlqsn0lOmSsMeKJq-6ktJFNy8ni7tl5Ylk4dLBdh7CxpWShMdNt8L-FlPMIMazxniDpQncf0Jg-pxVzPMAjjbET8BXL-qtnprf1DjHVmPgEaGIFwA==]at
Cap, the resort’s signature restaurant featuring breathtaking panoramic views of
 the Caribbean Sea. Both available at $135, the Christmas and New Year’s Eve menus
feature an elegant 8-course French West-Indian meal with classic staple dishes including
braised short rib of beef and slow-roasted turkey with herb and onion stuffing,
while giving a St. Lucian twist with its rich pudding dessert topped with island
 rum anglaise. Holiday rates (from December 20, 2009 to January 2, 2010) start at
$565 in a Gardenview Room. Rates are based on double occupancy, per room per night
and include full breakfast. www.capmaison.com [http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102825395981&s=8349&e=001vDD7XRlqsn1JZRbWM0A9_UUp3WVem9LhK-oLBi0HtvuUrnTK1-wRx5T68E4izMcycckROEEpYahkQflzkHYIhYHdryJIcCadHK1e7raUTs_uWjyreqlWWQ==]

* East Winds Inn [http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102825395981&s=8349&e=001vDD7XRlqsn2RAEyqZ3aYlTd2KpodQ989DGpERxrtxYF02_FdAg9xap0os3DfunV7gAci6eW-Nh7RMlx4zM516d_J5clRByXfK2CNfqkw3NqeAmeytCI4-g==]
is offering guests who stay a minimum of seven nights, a free stay on EW Deluxe
[http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102825395981&s=8349&e=001vDD7XRlqsn1w1dps0o-zPbK8W17Zn3NHEUwbA5TzvrZh2b5YtRYMe9wNdh8iqmtZn5QkMNJbJJk_QW42cLV8_gPy4-Xii549swXyAQ7wBvGOSRLNWS2vyg==]Christmas
Day on an all-inclusive basis (7 nights for the price of 6). This is valid for all
new bookings and for arrivals at the hotel between December 19 and 24, 2009. Nestled
between Castries and Rodney Bay on the northwest side of Saint Lucia, East Winds
 is an all-inclusive resort located on the waterfront of LaBrelotte Bay, one of
the most pristine, golden sand beaches on the island. The resort recently debuted
a new Open-Air 3,000 square foot Yoga and Fitness Pavilion this winter. All-inclusive
rates are based per room, per night and start at $950 in a Superior Double (from
 December 21, 2009 to January 3, 2010), and include all meals, wine, bottomless
flutes of champagne and beach activities. www.eastwinds.com [http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102825395981&s=8349&e=001vDD7XRlqsn2RAEyqZ3aYlTd2KpodQ989DGpERxrtxYF02_FdAg9xap0os3DfunV7gAci6eW-Nh7RMlx4zM516d_J5clRByXfK2CNfqkw3NqeAmeytCI4-g==]

* Ladera  [http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102825395981&s=8349&e=001vDD7XRlqsn3gyvq8rvnlI1xZAH3Pu_kqQo-L-emuNnUgYIX-IzveZPCXiiur2MciMqtePZjPifRY8QSxSpaGIixAhMFFIi_PqmjfjZW6HqU=]is
offering a Christmas and New Year’s Eve Program this year, Dasheene [http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102825395981&s=8349&e=001vDD7XRlqsn3JTbc-lw1a99bZq0vKQ9brV7bWR9XTJ4fDKpUnvP0doaJTr8twEdtZINQK3FMPOarlTLCHAgoDBL1jm0pyVigeHg-nHXlmHgDfA9v3Jg4USA==]complete
with a classic Christmas Dinner at the acclaimed Dasheene Restaurant, evening entertainment
performances including local carolers and live bands, the option to attend Christmas
Day Mass at Fond St. Jacques Catholic Church, a cocktail reception with General
Manager Waddy Francis, and festive libations and meals at one of the Caribbean’s
 best restaurants. There’s also a New Year’s Eve Gala Dinner available at $135 per
person where revelers can enjoy a live band, dancers, party favors and celebratory
midnight countdown to ring in the New Year. Reservations are required in advance
 for the New Years Eve Gala. Dress code is smart casual. Holiday winter rates begin
at $680 in a Petit Piton Suite with a plunge pool (from December 21, 2009 to January
4, 2010). Rates include breakfast, afternoon tea, and full use of resort facilities
including warm volcanic mineral water bath, gym, beach shuttles, snorkeling equipment
and WiFi access throughout the resort. www.ladera.com [http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102825395981&s=8349&e=001vDD7XRlqsn3gyvq8rvnlI1xZAH3Pu_kqQo-L-emuNnUgYIX-IzveZPCXiiur2MciMqtePZjPifRY8QSxSpaGIixAhMFFIi_PqmjfjZW6HqU=]
Virgin Gorda

* Aquamare  [http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102825395981&s=8349&e=001vDD7XRlqsn25LZ_FI-hts2w3gj682yfPbSeC3VJ9WTv-0HypvgddrXJekAVNEyHuC-SDxawsl82Y0i7K8vjhKalb-Z1UPvswxxx8vzdUJ8dp8BLdXcwzPw==]offers
the setting for the perfect family beach holiday vacation. Now is the AQ Living
Rm [http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102825395981&s=8349&e=001vDD7XRlqsn3N-Mf8NHB01ltFoKW_crLwusPezKx5-LBY_l747OKI2ONFH5NkolC-hz7K5uijAjZlaArvud2gkYUJMTDGhuvrUgWJ7VXtgGSfv7Te_7SVmg==]time
to think about the holidays in 2010, since the 2009 holiday season is already booked
due to high demand. From the clear, calm, shallow waters that are made for young
 swimmers to its safe and sandy beach just steps that’s perfect for sand castles,
the three villas that overlook the Sir Francis Drake Channel offer comfort, adventure
and luxury. With 8,000 square feet of private living space, five guest rooms, including
three Master Suites each with its own expansive marble bath area, the villas are
 purposely built for large, multi-generational gatherings and comfortably sleep
up to 12 guests. www.villaaquamare.com [http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102825395981&s=8349&e=001vDD7XRlqsn25LZ_FI-hts2w3gj682yfPbSeC3VJ9WTv-0HypvgddrXJekAVNEyHuC-SDxawsl82Y0i7K8vjhKalb-Z1UPvswxxx8vzdUJ8dp8BLdXcwzPw==]
Switzerland

* Lake Geneva Region of Switzerland [http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102825395981&s=8349&e=001vDD7XRlqsn246HoDWo0cmvteh9AR13vZQNUXysUOtpM2WYz-tNRL-6tLhvrT1br_uF9Kdt8BgaZETaG0-nhXhIsUEnvLyk1C8L_ZnVSqklYKvUXPzxZpuw3-543rNKuHpqNcqAIurq0=],
located on the shore of Lac Léman (Lake Montreux Xmas [http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102825395981&s=8349&e=001vDD7XRlqsn33zC7D-a40lkIGHq_bK8tiD3UeaV_ypCuk89ro3EHcOEfQkbpsu5EUH6E3-qfZ11lLDQzuTaFGO3sWHU9Z8T-icS_v407TIgUN_yb-d-wfJA==]Geneva)
in the French-speaking part of Western Switzerland, will feature their annual Christmas
Markets in Montreux and Lausanne from November 25 to December 24, 2009. Both cities
will be transformed into an enchanting holiday fair with over 100 richly decorated
stands resembling small chalets. In addition to the wide selection of holiday crafts
and gifts, the Markets feature classic Swiss cuisine, including roasted chestnuts
and light white wines from the Lavaux vineyards, a UNESCO World Heritage site. www.montreux-vevey.com
[http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102825395981&s=8349&e=001vDD7XRlqsn0ShU6zTgSktDFHPD9GYulCNJIztPMm78GWQns9YZ9r4-3SJNhrPRqfrvhd-kB8ILx4eB_ZCrPmBBV0TGhrmwLVtALZwz7XcSJhjQ1iOM6SAg==]
Jackson Hole, Wyoming

* Hotel Terra [http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102825395981&s=8349&e=001vDD7XRlqsn0zxPnh0Q8A7UZOdWH41pffvAL56xFZSkRPasNPfUsHjzfQatGz8JeBxnoEJ0bhvlALcnhyQz_TWRu16BrW1TG5XxD2ABaOgqmUG6XlcqsQozSTtwTZQvHn],
Jackson Hole’s AAA Four-Diamond LEED Certified hotel, is offering a Ski & Stay Free
Special [http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102825395981&s=8349&e=001vDD7XRlqsn3tZs5UT_ahBXnKeibD1wvCHIoXIe5Q0gGtvKm_6mRZtiAGvs2Sfcx0MoKri9rQgONUdKuZoeYIJMMz0RoVRO0xT5E3L–TBGPFzFutLZdL55GEppOC3_34xd2PS3o4FynIp0F3jnilwpnP0f3VY7uku8FqPJRcZghX2_MYtCJG3g==]
for the holiday season. Available at only $99 per person, per night, the offer provides
a complimentary lift ticket and a stay at Hotel Terra. There is a four night minimum
stay. Full, non-refundable pre-payment is required. Hotel Terra opened in February
2008, landing a spot on Condé Nast Traveler’s “Hot List” and Travel + Leisure’s
“It List” shortly thereafter. The hotel was also named one of the Top Ten Eco-Hotels
by TripAdvisor’s customer reviews. Located slope side to the Jackson Hole Mountain
Resort, just a mile from Grand Teton National Park and just an hour from Yellowstone,
Hotel Terra is ideally situated to bring something new to the luxury mountain lodge
category. Holiday winter rates start at $289 at double occupancy, depending on dates.
www.hotelterrajacksonhole.com [http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102825395981&s=8349&e=001vDD7XRlqsn1vuw_uQqcI6ssMtj0v81k4BAKjVffjzda3ER8KX53MCXFwzxyPGjDiXDwW8NG7xM1S9Y4_OkG0d7LP6c4dWP31i9ztK5v5ZUKKwXZ9WaCsl9P5F7_WcBZj]

* Teton Mountain Lodge [http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102825395981&s=8349&e=001vDD7XRlqsn38kCwrk4Ylgh9rek-9u3P-J3Rbk3sz5FqVRQF7mEE5hHGR8x-f96r7M2gejl8cGuzymlpo9t7TKOV3gOT8tzkBOSMrW3DLlQ-Wkmy37yJk4w==],
Jackson Hole’s AAA Four-Diamond hotel located at the TML Winter [http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102825395981&s=8349&e=001vDD7XRlqsn3AJ00exxHuUrvMHsWlOfWpKyYMy9NoTCaxailyxwVrIH7CW7s8qINjCCfrGDCSureZp03t1xDQxWMV1whep7uZWvo11n8PoYPni198m2bPgA==]entrance
to Grand Teton National Park, is offering a Ski & Stay Free Special [http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102825395981&s=8349&e=001vDD7XRlqsn0GHheECJveUJ09NeIPNkMNFexuMkl_u2v4gykqY5NSNhiZLZfJNLvtK-GwK4mFWndlp3uTO6Ean6l07Nl719xw1I5kZKv6lw5YPnPtfvIoqUhIkBh6WKThyBGxwwcJIUfO4i1ZI2TKyp54EfB_5Wz-]
for the holiday season. Available at only $99 per person, per night, the offer provides
a complimentary lift ticket and a stay at Teton Mountain Lodge. Couples or families
can capture the true spirit of the festive holidays with the luxury lodge, located
only steps from legendary Jackson Hole skiing. There is a four night minimum stay.
Full, non-refundable pre-payment is required. Holiday winter rates start at $289
 at double occupancy, depending on dates. www.tetonlodge.com [http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102825395981&s=8349&e=001vDD7XRlqsn38kCwrk4Ylgh9rek-9u3P-J3Rbk3sz5FqVRQF7mEE5hHGR8x-f96r7M2gejl8cGuzymlpo9t7TKOV3gOT8tzkBOSMrW3DLlQ-Wkmy37yJk4w==]
Salt Lake City

* Salt Lake City [http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102825395981&s=8349&e=001vDD7XRlqsn1G_i16EGoOW8aFInC1h6mpqzGHWzgyo9KsePmLJi_0wC3pm5Xl4EaM-vcNEUxbrG4eE58wyGOEDOOS69qbA7OZRFbVdbr3Z5yHJ5P77gNpyQ==]will
host the 16th Annual New Year’s EVE [http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102825395981&s=8349&e=001vDD7XRlqsn2LvNsOhvJmhnZFQJ7G87hS8f8TUVEhQJlc0rqcoCq7eRZQSXLaROqXakgCVKdy6Lb0VbMWmKZ3h0W47gFJw6-2rz1tgQYeDNbNzckg2IP_-Q==]celebration
from December Ice skating [http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102825395981&s=8349&e=001vDD7XRlqsn38X7uUTCjCYNhPxhTM1SKh4py6KZsHdtHnuDoysPvNexi6Rh8fRh_scu5XnT73zSUHhJxT7S6uBGroepqankYP4a5TM4qE2WN06B_XRzP5p4ivZgZegU68]29
to 31, 2009. Presented by the Downtown Alliance
and hosted in venues throughout downtown Salt
Lake City, tens of thousands of visitors and locals
will gather for EVE, an indoor/outdoor urban extravaganza, complete with live
entertainment and performing arts, winter sports, activities for kids and
families and a festive midnight fireworks show. Over half of Utah’s out-of-state
 visitors opt for staying in Salt Lake, and with good reason. Located just 30 minutes
from SLC International Airport with over 750 daily flights from most major domestic
gateways, the downtown area provides guests with the best of all worlds. Using Salt
Lake as their “base camp,” visitors are less than an hour drive from 11 of Utah’s
14 world-class ski resorts. www.eveslc.com [http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102825395981&s=8349&e=001vDD7XRlqsn2LvNsOhvJmhnZFQJ7G87hS8f8TUVEhQJlc0rqcoCq7eRZQSXLaROqXakgCVKdy6Lb0VbMWmKZ3h0W47gFJw6-2rz1tgQYeDNbNzckg2IP_-Q==]

12^th November 2009FlyMontserrat is proud to announce the launch of its first scheduled flight service between Montserrat and Antigua.The Government of Montserrat has approved the service which offers one return flight per day from the 1^st to the 15 December 2009, and thereafter two return flights every day.   Starting 01 December, FlyMontserrat will offer customers  daily flights leaving Montserrat at 12:30 and returning from Antigua at 17:30.From December 16^th FlyMontserrat will leave Montserrat daily at 0900 and 1230 returning from Antigua at 1000 and 1730.FlyMontserrat  is delighted to announce the acquisition of two further Islander aircraft, bringing  its fleet up to three.  The new aircraft will arrive in time for the Christmas season. It is planned that a Twin Otter will be added to the fleet next year if passenger numbers and frequency of flights increases.Further flight crews have been appointed and two of these will be helping to ferry the new aircraft down to Montserrat next week.FlyMontserrat’s  new online  reservation site for scheduled services will be available by the 30^th November on the company’s website at www.flymontserrat.com.  Until then information on fares, conditions and flight frequency will be posted on the website and reservations can be made by calling 1 664 491 3434 during office hours.Lead-in Fares start at US$55 plus taxes for a one way, advance purchase ticket. The company will not be charging extra for booking online or for paying by credit card.FlyMontserrat will continue to offer its charter services to all islands in the surrounding Caribbean.FlyMontserrat acknowledges the support given by the Government of Montserrat and the Montserrat Tourist Board in the awarding of this contract. It also appreciates the donation of a stretcher kit supplied by the Government which has enabled Flymontserrat to be kitted out for air ambulance flights. Additionally, FlyMontserrat would like to take this opportunity to thank the people of Montserrat for their continued support. Since starting the charter service at the end of May there has been overwhelming enthusiasm for our presence on island. Fly Montserrat’s CEO, Nigel Harris, said: “We hope that Montserratians will appreciate and support their  ‘home-grown’ service which as it grows will provide more employment and training possibilities on island”. *************************************************************************For further information contact:  Nigel Harris    1 664 491 3434

San Francisco’s hotel bars spread the good cheer with Happy Hour specials

Toronto, November 16, 2009 - “Happy hour” in San Francisco isn’t just for office workers marking the end of another day’s work.  At the bars and lounges located in the city’s hotels, it’s a chance for visitors to celebrate their good fortune just to be in San Francisco.  Fortunately for both visitors and locals, several hotels are offering special drink prices and nibbles to make those hours even happier.
 
The San Francisco Convention & Visitors Bureau <http://www.onlyinsanfrancisco.com./>  (SFCVB) has some suggestions:
 
345 Club Lounge / MO Bar at the Mandarin Oriental
222 Sansome St.
www.mandarinoriental.com/sanfrancisco/dining/mo_bar/ <http://www.mandarinoriental.com/sanfrancisco/dining/mo_bar/> 
In the tradition of great hotels, MO Bar is the social center of the Mandarin Oriental, in the heart of the Financial District. The bustle of city streets gives way to an intimate setting perfect for enjoying cocktails with taste.345 Club Lounge offers a “VIP Happy Hour” Mon.-Fri., 4:30-8:30 p.m. with specials that include $3 bottled beers, $5 Sangria and $7 premium wine selections. Guests may enjoy watching sports or joining others for one of the bar’s fun event nights including Poker Night, Ladies Movie Night and more.
Media contact: Gabriela Knubis, gabriela@knubis.com <mailto:gabriela@knubis.com&gt; ,               707-265-7783         707-265-7783
 
Bar 888 at the InterContinental
888 Howard St.at 5th St.
www.grappabar888.com <http://www.grappabar888.com/>   
Bar 888 features in San Francisco’s newest hotel features classic and contemporary cocktails - including specialty grappa-based drinks - and pour fine wines from both the Old and New World. Happy Hour is Mon.- Fri. from 4-8 p.m. with $5 and $6 beer specials, $7 wines, cocktails for $8.88 and delicious bar bites created by Chef Dominique Crenn of newly Michelin-starred Luce restaurant.
Media contact: Connie Perez, connie.perez@ihg.com <mailto:connie.perez@ihg.com&gt; ,               415-616-6633         415-616-6633
 
BAR 1915 Larkspur Hotel
521 Sutter St.
www.larkspurhotelunionsquare.com <http://www.larkspurhotelunionsquare.com/> 
BAR 1915 in the heart of Union Square, offers half-off wines by the glass and draught beer along with specials on pizzetta, panini and hand crafted salumi.  Chef Robert Helstrom of Kuleto’s Restaurant has designed an interesting menu to appeal to visitors and locals alike. Happy hour is 4:30-6:30 p.m. daily. 
Media contact:  Michael Lennon, mlennon@LarkspurHotels.com <mailto:mlennon@LarkspurHotels.com&gt; ,               415-421-2865         415-421-2865
 
Caruso’s at the Westin St. Francis
335 Powell St.
www.westinstfrancis.com/unwind <http://www.westinstfrancis.com/unwind> 
Caruso’s was named after the Caruso the distraught opera singer who moved from The Palace Hotel to the Westin St. Francis after the Great Earthquake and Fire in 1906. He walked over in his bathrobe wit his entire entourage. Caruso’s, located in the historic Westin St. Francis, is offering a new signature social experience, The Unwind Hour, featuring the tastes, sights and sounds of Napa Valley and beyond. Sample premier wines paired with fine hors d’ oeuvres. Tues.-Sat., 5-7 p.m.
Media contact: Gena Egelston, gena.egelston@westin.com <mailto:gena.egelston@westin.com&gt; ,               415-397-7000         415-397-7000
 
cityhouse at Parc 55 Hotel
55 Cyril Magnin St., second floor of Parc 55 Hotel
www.parc55hotel.com <http://www.parc55hotel.com/>   
“Cityhouse” restaurant and bar, located on Parc 55’s renovated second floor, presents a modern take on American Classics, specializing in steaks, chops and seafood flame-seared on the hotel’s signature wood-fired grill, while the lounge provides a hip and convivial setting for relaxing, connecting with friends, sharing small plates, and enjoying selections from the extensive wine and cocktail list. From 3 -7 p.m. Tues.-Sat., buy any drink or bar bite and get a second round for just 55 cents. Media contact: Casey Shaughnessy-Gray, Glodow Nead Communications, casey@glodownead.com <mailto:casey@glodownead.com&gt; ,                415-394-6500         415-394-6500, ext. 212
 
Daffodil Restaurant at the Orchard Hotel   
665 Bush St.
www.thedaffodilrestaurant.com <http://www.thedaffodilrestaurant.com/> 

Daffodil Restaurant, located on the lobby level of the Orchard Hotel, serves hearty meals and delicious desserts that comfort the soul and the budget; its street-level bar is terrific for people watching while sipping on a glass of local wine. Receive a complimentary appetizer with the purchase of any signature cocktail  4-7p.m. daily.

Media contact: Trisha Clayton, t.clayton@sbcglobal.net <mailto:t.clayton@sbcglobal.net&gt; ,               415-346-4565         415-346-4565 
 
Infusion Lounge at the Hotel Fusion 
124 Ellis St.
www.infusionlounge.com <http://www.infusionlounge.com/> 
Infusion Lounge is an Asian-inspired sub-rosa lounge located in the heart of Union Square. Happy Hour Special: Tues.-Fri., 6-8 p.m., $3 beers, $5 wine and $5 mixed drinks. A three-course prix fixe menu is available for $33.
Media contact: Kevin Sanchez,               415-227-1150         415-227-1150, ext. 110
 
Knuckles at the Wharf at the Hyatt at Fisherman’s Wharf
555 Northpoint
www.hyattatthewharf.blogspot.com <http://www.hyattatthewharf.blogspot.com/> 
Knuckle’s Happy Hour (Mon.-Fri.) is 5-7 p.m., with half price draft beers and house wines.  Also featuring Thursday Night $6 House Martinis, as well as themed buffet nights and monthly winemaker events.
Media contact: Molly Blaisdell, mocahill@aol.com <mailto:mocahill@aol.com&gt; ,               925-388-0164         925-388-0164
 
Kyo-ya Restaurant at the Palace Hotel
2 New Montgomery St.
www.sfpalace.com <http://www.sfpalace.com/> 
Located in the heart of downtown San Francisco in one San Francisco’s historic hotels, Kyo-ya is the perfect place to meet friends, relax and unwind - all in a beautiful modern setting. Happy Hour in Kyo-ya is Mon.-Fri., 5-7 p.m., with complimentary Bar Bites, $3 Sapporo beer and $6 specialty cocktails, and award winning sushi at affordable prices.
Media contact:  Renée Roberts, reneerobertsinc@aol.com <mailto:reneerobertsinc@aol.com&gt;                 650-652-9939         650-652-9939
 
La Scene Café & Bar at the Warwick Hotel
490 Geary St. at Taylor
http://www.warwicksf.com <http://www.warwicksf.com/>   
La Scene is a personable yet vibrant bar in the heart of the Theater District, steps away from Union Square. Happy Hour specials Tues.-Sat., 5 -6:30 p.m., with $2.99 beers, $4.99 house wine and $5 well cocktails.
Media contact:  Agnetha Altas, amartensson@warwickhotels.com <mailto:amartensson@warwickhotels.com&gt; ,                415-345-2307         415-345-2307
 
Lobby Lounge at The Ritz-Carlton, San Francisco
600 Stockton St.
www.ritzcarlton.com <http://www.ritzcarlton.com/> 

Located convenient to the hotel entrance and to The Ritz-Carlton Bar and Dining Room, the popular Lobby Lounge offers striking floor-to-ceiling windows with views of the city. The popular gathering spot for guests and locals is set in a landmark Nob Hill building which is currently home to The Ritz-Carlton and recently celebrated its 100th anniversary.The hotel’s weekly Raw Bar menu features a generous selection of fresh oysters and shellfish, complemented by optional paired wines, Wed., 5-7 p.m., and The Lobby Lounge features a new diverse farm-to-bar Bloody Mary menu available daily.

Media contact: Bonnie Crail, Crail Communications, bcrail@crailcommunications.com <mailto:bcrail@crailcommunications.com&gt; , 
              760-732-3500         760-732-3500.
 
Redwood Room at the Clift
495 Geary St.
www.clifthotel.com <http://www.clifthotel.com/>   
The Redwood Room, a haven for San Francisco bon vivants since the 1930s, is now offering a different specialty cocktail each week for $8, available during 5 p.m.- 2 a.m. Sun.-Thurs.;
4 p.m.-2 a.m., Fri.-Sat.
Media contact: Julie Jarratt, Glodow Nead Communications, julie@glodownead.com <mailto:julie@glodownead.com&gt; ,
              415-394-6500         415-394-6500  
 
Roots Restaurant at the Orchard Garden Hotel
466 Bush St. at Grant Ave.
www.therootsrestaurant.com <http://www.therootsrestaurant.com/> 

Roots at the Orchard Garden Hotel serves contemporary American cuisine with a Mediterranean flair and is committed to featuring local produce, naturally raised meats and sustainable seafood whenever possible; its cozy bar is a great spot for enjoying organic cocktails. Happy Hour special: Receive a complimentary appetizer with the purchase of a glass of wine or signature cocktail between 4 -7 p.m. daily.

Media contact: Trisha Clayton, t.clayton@sbcglobal.net <mailto:t.clayton@sbcglobal.net&gt; ,               415-346-4565         415-346-4565
 
Urban Tavern  at the Hilton San Francisco Union Square
333 O’Farrell St.
www.urbantavernsf.com <http://www.urbantavernsf.com/> 
Urban Tavern is a newly transformed modern gastropub serving approachable food in a casual but sleek setting. Happy Hour specials include: half-priced cocktails, wine by the glass and $4 beer 3-5:30 p.m. A food menu of burgers and small bites are also available.
Media contact: Kyle McKibbin, Kyle.McKibbin@hilton.com <mailto:Kyle.McKibbin@hilton.com&gt; ,                415-202-7021         415-202-7021
 
XYZ Lounge + W Café at the W San Francisco
181 Third St.
www.whotels.com/sanfrancisco <http://www.whotels.com/sanfrancisco>  or
www.xyz-sf.com <http://www.xyz-sf.com/> 
Keen to be green? W San Francisco’s eco-licious cocktail menu uses local, organic, sustainable and seasonal ingredients whenever, wherever possible. Five at Five for Five– five days a week. Happy hour includes a selection of handcrafted organic cocktails, micro brew beers and biodynamic wines paired with organic bar bites by executive chef Paul Piscopo, all for $5 each. Mon.-Fri., 5:00-7:00 p.m. at the W Café or  XYZ Lounge.
Media contact:  Allison Fox, Allison.Fox@WHotels.com <mailto:Allison.Fox@WHotels.com&gt; ,               415-817-7813         415-817-7813 
 

For general information on hotel packages and reservations; events; activities and transportation in San Francisco, visit www.onlyinsanfrancisco.com <http://www.onlyinsanfrancisco.com/> .  For lodging reservations, call               800-637-5196         800-637-5196 within North America or               415-391-2000         415-391-2000 or               415-392-0328         415-392-0328 (TTY/TTD) elsewhere.

The San Francisco Visitors Planning Guide is available at the Visitor Information Center, 900 Market St., at the corner of Powell and Market streets, lower level, Hallidie Plaza.  A virtual edition of the guide is also available online: http://www.nxtbook.com/nxtbooks/weaver/sfovg208/ <http://www.nxtbook.com/nxtbooks/weaver/sfovg208/>   A visitor’s kit may also be ordered online at www.onlyinsanfrancisco.com <http://www.onlyinsanfrancisco.com/> , by phone at               415-391-2000         415-391-2000 or               415-392-0328         415-392-0328 (TTY/TTD), by written request to the San Francisco Convention & Visitors Bureau, 900 Market St., San Francisco, CA 94102, or via email to vic1@sanfrancisco.travel <mailto:vic1@sanfrancisco.travel&gt; .  Domestic and international shipping charges apply.

San Francisco International Airport (SFO) offers non-stop links with more than 30 international points on 25 international carriers. The Bay Area’s largest airport connects non-stop with more than 65 cities in the U.S. on 20 domestic airlines.  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 <http://www.flysfo.com/> . 

To sign up for the San Francisco Convention & Visitors Bureau’s press release RSS feed, visit www.onlyinsanfrancisco.com/sfnews <http://www.onlyinsanfrancisco.com/sfnews>  and click on the orange RSS feed button on the upper right-hand corner (under “Plan Your Next Trip”).  Each time the site is updated, the information will be sent to your RSS subscriptions. Follow “OnlyinSF” on Twitter at http://twitter.com/onlyinsf <http://twitter.com/onlyinsf> . Only in San Francisco is also on Facebook at www.facebook.com/onlyinsf <http://www.facebook.com/onlyinsf> .

PRIVATE ISLAND RESORT IN ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES

ANNOUNCES 2010 WINTER SPECIAL

NEW YORK, NY, November 10, 2009 – The first quarter of 2010 will see such high profile special events in North America as the 10^th anniversary of Martin Luther King Day’s national observance in the U.S. and the Winter Olympics in Vancouver, Canada.  As for the southern Caribbean, the untrammeled, multi-island nation of St. Vincent and the Grenadines is gearing up for something special of its own sure to delight discerning travelers eager to escape the winter doldrums early next year.  Young Island Resort is offering one free night for every paid night when guests reserve the breakfast plus dinner meal plan.  Couples who book the seven-night “Lover’s” package will only pay for five nights.  These limited-time specials are valid for travel from January 1, 2010 through March 31, 2010.

Young Island Resort is located right off the southern coast of the main island of St. Vincent – an enjoyable three-minute water taxi ride away.  Pampering begins even before check-in, when guests are greeted on the dock with a glass of the resort’s signature rum punch.  When not lounging in their beachfront or hillside cottages with an ocean view, landlubbers can enjoy downtime at the quaint swimming pool amidst lush grounds or on the pristine white sand beach.  Of special note is the floating “Coconut Bar,” jutting ten yards into the ocean in six feet of tranquil Caribbean Sea – an idyllic spot to enjoy refreshing drinks. Watersports enthusiasts can snorkel in crystal clear waters right off shore, embark on a sailing trip to neighboring Grenadine islands, or book a dive excursion to explore St. Vincent’s fascinating underwater world.  A perfect start to an evening is a dinner under a thatched kiosk near the beach, where savory meals are accompanied by the resort’s signature six loaves of bread – white, coconut, banana, raisin, cinnamon, and whole wheat. 

Winter 2010 rates start at $532 per person, per night, and include airport and ferry transfers, non-motorized watersports, day or night tennis, basic laundry, taxes and service charges.  “Lover’s” package starts at $2,792 per couple and also includes three meals per day and a foot massage per couple.  For more information or bookings, please contact Ralph Locke Islands at 1 (800) 223-1108.

St. Vincent and the Grenadines is a string of 32 islands and cays in the unspoiled southern Caribbean, located 1,500 miles southeast of Miami.  For more information on St. Vincent and the Grenadines, please visit www.discoversvg.com.

* Note to Editors: High-resolution photos are available upon request.

Contact: Ulku Erucar / David Kleinman
             Spring, O’Brien & Company
             Ph: (212) 620-7100

 New hotels in Prague Prague, November 2009 They offer every comfort, are situated at attractive locations in the centre of Prague – and they are brand new. We are pleased to introduce you to hotels which have welcomed their first guests just this year.  Kings CourtThe five-star Kings Court opened in October and occupies a neo-renaissance building on Náměstí Republiky (Republic Square) in the centre of the metropolis. In revitalising the building, they discovered here remnants of a Roman house, which are now visible in the space occupied by the Zen Asian Spa & Wellness centre. The hotel also boasts a unique ballroom with natural light and extensive conference facilities. www.hotelkingscourt.cz Elephant PragueAnother hotel that was opened in October is to be found on the street Na Florenci, just a short walk from Náměstí Republiky. Named the Designhotel Elephant Prague, it is a member of the Design Hotels network. As regards design, in the four-star Elephant they are putting their bets mainly on contrasts, but which are aesthetically combined to strike a harmony. Just as a point of interest, the hotel is situated in a building that in Baroque times was used as an aristocratic residence. www.designhotel-elephant.com Grand Majestic PlazaOpen since September is the four-star design hotel Grand Majestic Plaza, a member of the Worldhotels chain. This hotel, too, is situated only a few steps from Náměstí Republiky. The dominant feature of the hotel is its untraditional coloured fountain in the lobby. In addition to modern rooms, you will find on offer luxury suites with balconies. Among other enticements perhaps one should mention the summer garden terrace. www.hotel-grandmajestic.cz Jurys Inn Prague The four-star Jurys Inn Prague, which is located in the centre of the city next to the Florenc Metro station, welcomed its first guests in September. This is the first hotel outside of Ireland and Great Britain to be opened by the leading Irish hotel chain. In its restaurant, guests will savour both Irish and Czech cuisines. The hotel building’s architect is Andreas Degn, who already shared in, for example, the architectonic look of Prague’s Four Seasons hotel and Yasmin. http://prahahotels.jurysinns.com/ The Augustine The Augustine is a five-star hotel belonging to The Rocco Forte Collection. It is situated in Prague’s Malá Strana quarter and has been in operation since May. Among others, it especially attracts wedding tourists. A practical aspect is that from the hotel one enters directly onto the grounds of the monastery, where St. Thomas Church is also located. Weddings may be organised directly in the church. www.theaugustine.com  Park Inn PragueSince April, guests have also been able to lodge in the four-star Park Inn Prague, which is to be found not far from Vyšehrad and the Prague Congress Centre. There is also an extensive congress centre in the hotel itself, offering a total of five modern, naturally lighted meeting spaces. www.prague.parkinn.cz Sheraton Prague HotelIn March, the five-star Sheraton Prague Hotel welcomed its first guests. It is the first hotel opened in the Czech Republic by the company Starwood. The hotel is located in four interconnected buildings from the 19th Century and sits upon the boundary between Prague’s Old Town and New Town quarters. The rooftop terrace offers a breathtaking view of Prague Castle. One more interesting note is that in Diamond’s Bar you can taste a specialty of the house: the Sheratini cocktail. www.sheratonpraha.cz Buddha-Bar Hotel Prague Not far from Old Town Square lies the five-star Buddha-Bar Hotel Prague, which offers lodging in an Oriental and French Colonial style. The boutique hotel opened its doors this year in January and one of the attractions here, too, is its cuisine. Guests will enjoy Asian and world cooking in the Buddha-Bar restaurant and Siddharta Café. www.buddha-bar-hotel.cz.  Eva TajanovskáCzechTourism, tajanovska@czechtourism.cz                 .