Sister cities San Francisco and Zurich get closer (part 2), we’re talkintravel

Sister cities San Francisco and Zurich get closer (part 2), we’re talkintravel.

NEW ZEALAND OFFERS GOLF ENTHUSIASTS MORE THAN JUST GREAT COURSES WITH ALL-AROUND GOLF PACKAGES

NEW ZEALAND OFFERS GOLF ENTHUSIASTS MORE THAN JUST GREAT COURSES
WITH ALL-AROUND GOLF PACKAGES

Luxury Golf Tour Packages (Land Only) From $1,644 Per Person

Combine Rounds of Golf with Wine Tours, Soft Adventure Activities and Much More

SANTA MONICA, CA, March 17, 2009 – For golf lovers on a personal quest for that “all in one” golf trip, New Zealand has teed up a variety of luxury travel packages combining love of the game and exploration of the destination – both in true Kiwi-style.  With its celebrated wineries, outdoor adventure offerings and famed Kiwi hospitality added to some of the world’s leading golf courses, New Zealand tempts golfers to drive beyond its spectacular fairways and greens.  Top-flight golf on dramatic courses with scenic backdrops is rounded out with car rental, exclusive food and wine experiences, soft adventure activities and more.

Best of New Zealand Golf & Wine: Golfers who want to play at some of New Zealand’s top golf courses as well as get an all-around culinary, wine and soft adventure experience, will appreciate Down Under Answers’ “Unforgettable New Zealand”.  This 10-day trip begins with a guided tour in the charming art deco town of Napier, with visits to the art deco buildings, wineries and art studios.  Enjoy a spectacular round of golf at the award-winning Cape Kidnappers Golf Club, with its championship layout making superb use of the natural countryside and hailed as a marvel of modern golf course design.  After journeying south to the outdoor adventure playground of Queenstown, discover the dramatic landscapes of Milford Sound; enjoy the thrill of a Shotover Jetboat ride before hitting the lush fairways and greens at Millbrook, a championship course nestled in an impressive alpine amphitheater of snow-capped mountains.  Conclude the adventure in Auckland, “City of Sails,” with a day trip to the vineyards of Waiheke Island.

“Unforgettable New Zealand” packages start at $2,359 per person (double occupancy), land only and include: 9-night accommodations (3 nights at The County Hotel, Napier; 4 nights at Browns Boutique Hotel, Queenstown; 2 nights at Hilton Auckland), round of golf (18 holes) at Cape Kidnappers; round of golf (18 holes) at Millbrook Resort; Napier Food & Wine, Artists & Walks Experience; Milford Sounds Nature Cruise including lunch; exclusive tour of Waiheke Island Vineyards including lunch; private roundtrip airport transfers in Queenstown and Auckland; car rental for 3 days in Napier; 10 meals.  Valid for travel until March 31, 2010.  For reservations and information, visit www.duatravel.com or call toll-free 1-800-889-1464.

North Island Golf Retreat: Down Under Answers’ “Discover New Zealand” is a seven-day journey that ushers golfers and sophisticated travelers into the pleasures of Auckland and the Bay of Islands.  The quest begins in Auckland, set in the midst of the sparkling Waitemata Harbour and home to two America’s Cup regattas.  From there take a ferry for an excursion on Waiheke Island, with its spectacular views and boutique wineries holding the secrets to Waiheke’s world-famous red wines.  Enjoy a round of golf on the Gulf Harbour Golf Course – offering challenging holes along the cliffs and overlooking the Hauraki Gulf.  Next drive north to Carrington Resort on the Kari Kari Peninsula in the stunning Bay of Islands, with its subtropical climate and myriad beautiful islands, bays and beaches.  In addition to a round of golf at the resort, travelers can opt to enjoy the resort’s heated swimming pool, spa services, clay targets shooting range, and more.

“Discover New Zealand” packages start at $1,644 per person (double occupancy), land only, and include: 6 nights accommodations (3 at Hilton Auckland and 3 at Carrington Resort, Bay of Islands); exclusive tour of Waiheke Island Vineyards including lunch; round of golf (18 holes) at Gulf Harbour Country Club; round of golf (18 holes) at Carrington Resort Golf Course; private airport transfer to Auckland Hotel; car rental for 4 days; 7 meals.  Valid for travel until March 31, 2010.  For reservations and information, visit www.duatravel.com or call toll-free 1-800-889-1464.

Recently named the “Golf Destination of the Year – Asia & Australasia” by the International Association of Golf Tour Operators (IAGTO), the leading golf tourism trade group, New Zealand prides itself on being the home of some of the world’s leading golf courses, and being able to offer golfers a holistic travel experience.  For more information about New Zealand golf, visit www.bestofgolfnewzealand.com.

For information about New Zealand’s extensive vacation options, log onto the 100% Pure New Zealand website at http://www.newzealand.com.

TRAVEL TO THE 50TH STATE AND DISCOVER 50 WAYS TO LOVE O‘AHU

TRAVEL TO THE 50TH STATE AND DISCOVER 50 WAYS TO LOVE O‘AHU TRAVEL TO THE 50TH STATE AND DISCOVER 50 WAYS TO LOVE O‘AHUy. The island of O‘ahu provides the allure of an exotic destination while still allowing travelers to stay in the U.S., and with low airfare and hotel rates, now is the perfect time to come. To help you commemorate Hawai‘i’s statehood in the heart of Hawai‘i®, O‘ahu hotel, activity and meeting partners are offering special rates and promotions in 2009. The following are special O‘ahu hotel and activity offerings, as well as a list of some of the 50 ways to love O‘ahu in 2009 and beyond. For more information, go to http://www.visit-oahu.com/50ways. Hotels and Resorts Hilton Hawaiian Village’s “50 Years of Aloha” Package In honor of the 50th anniversary of statehood, Hilton Hawaiian Village is offering a “50 Years of Aloha” special. Four nights’ accommodations are priced at $219 per night, with the fifth night at just $50. Guests will have the choice of one $50 spa credit, $50 dining credit, or $50 watercraft rental credit (kayaks, aqua cycles and waterbees), and receive two commemorative State of Hawai‘i quarters in a collector’s case as an anniversary memento. In addition, guests born in 1959 receive a complimentary dinner entrée at one of the resort’s restaurants. The package is bookable now through April 30, 2009 for travel through Dec. 20, 2009. It is based on availability, blackout dates apply and the rate does not include local taxes. To book, visit http://www.hiltonhawaiianvillage.com and use plan code “OX.” Marriott Resorts Hawai‘i’s “Hawai‘i Statehood Package” Marriott Resorts Hawai‘i is offering a “Hawai‘i Statehood Package” at the Waikiki Beach Marriott Resort & Spa and JW Marriott Ihilani Resort & Spa at Ko Olina. The package is available throughout 2009 and includes a free fourth night when guests book three nights, VIP turndown service, daily breakfast for two, one-time $50 resort credit, and a newly minted Hawai‘i state quarter. For reservations, please visit http://www.marriott.com and use rate code “PRO.” Commemorate Statehood with Starwood Hawai‘i In honor of Hawai‘i’s statehood, Starwood Hawai‘i invites guests to enjoy one of its distinct Waikīkī properties – the newly renovated The Royal Hawaiian, A Luxury Collection Resort; Moana Surfrider, A Westin Resort; Sheraton Waikiki; and Sheraton Princess Kaiulani – and save 50 percent off the rack rate for stays from now through June 30, 2009. Reservations must be made by March 5, 2009. This offer cannot be combined with other offers and can be subject to change; blackout dates and other restrictions may apply. To book, visit http://www.starwoodhotelshawaii.com or call (866) 716-8140 and use rate code “SPG50OFF.” Hyatt Regency Waikiki Beach Resort and Spa’s 50th Anniversary Promotion Guests who book at the Hyatt Regency Waikiki Beach Resort and Spa for a minimum of five nights can receive a 50-minute Na Ho‘ola Spa massage for $50 per person. This offer is valid now through Dec. 31, 2009 and can be combined with Three for Free, Sunshine on Sale, Aloha Rates, and Rack Rates. Spa reservations are based on availability. For more information, visit http://www.waikiki.hyatt.com. Hawai‘i Prince Hotel’s “Spring into Summer” Package Hawai‘i Prince Hotel is offering a $50 daily resort credit with its “Spring into Summer” package. With the “Spring into Summer Package,” guests will enjoy discounted luxury accommodations for select room categories, starting at $219 per night. No minimum night stay is required. For reservations, please visit http://www.princeresortshawaii.com or call (888) 977-4623. “Escape” to Hawai‘i with Aston Hotels & Resorts In honor of Hawai‘i’s 50th anniversary of statehood and Aston Hotels & Resorts’ 60 years of hospitality in Hawai‘i, Aston Hotels & Resorts is offering “Aston Escapes,” featuring discounts of up to 40 percent off at select properties for travel between March 1 and June 11, 2009. Guests will also have access to valuable discounts worth $2,000 on gifts, meals, and admissions through Aston’s “Aloha Book.” The book also serves as a guide to some of the best culture, history, cuisine and attractions on the island. For more information, visit http://www.AstonHotels.com or call toll free (866) 774-2924. Castle Hotels & Resorts’ 50 Percent Off Promotion From Feb. 17 to Dec. 31, 2009, guests who book at one of Castle Hotels & Resorts’ O‘ahu properties can enjoy 50 percent off published rack rates. Castle Hotels & Resorts’ properties include the Maile Sky Court, Ocean Resort Hotel Waikiki, Waikiki Shore, Hokele Suites Waikiki, Queen Kapiolani Hotel, Pacific Marina Inn Airport, and the newly acquired Lotus at Diamond Head. For reservations, visit http://www.castleresorts.com or call (800) 367-5004. Meetings and Conventions The Hawai‘i Convention Center’s Hawai‘i 50th Promotion The Hawai‘i Convention Center is offering The Hawai‘i 50th Promotion to qualified meeting groups who confirm their bookings by Dec. 31, 2009. The promotion includes 50 roundtrip airline tickets, $50,000 in destination support, $50,000 in global outreach and attendance/marketing promotional support, $50,000 in hotel credit, and 50 percent off the center’s rental fee. To qualify for this promotion, groups must book a meeting with at least 3,000 attendees or 1,500 room nights peak for one of the following years: 2011, 2012, 2016, and 2017. To take advantage of this offer, interested groups can call (800) 295-6603 or email info@hccsmg.com. 50 Ways to Love O‘ahu In addition to these great hotel and meetings offers, the O‘ahu Visitors Bureau also encourages visitors to experience the 50 ways to love O‘ahu. Below is a small sampling of activities and attractions unique to O‘ahu: · The natural and cultural history of Hawai‘i and the Pacific region are on vivid display at Bishop Museum. Charles Reed Bishop built the museum as a tribute to his late wife, Princess Bernice Pauahi Bishop, the last descendant of the royal Kamehameha dynasty. The Bishop Museum is renowned for its impressive collection of Hawaiian and Pacific region artifacts, royal memorabilia, planetarium, Science Adventure Center, Hawai‘i Sports Hall of Fame, and world-class research facilities. On Aug. 8, 2009, the museum will reopen its acclaimed Hawaiian Hall, designed by Ralph Applebaum, which showcases Native Hawaiian cultural artifacts, many of which have never been publicly displayed before. Hawaiian Hall will also include an interactive resource center providing hands-on children’s activities. · Pay a visit to ‘Iolani Palace, the only royal palace in the United States and the official residence of the last Hawaiian monarchs, King Kalākaua and his sister and successor, Queen Lili‘uokalani. This beautifully restored National Historic Landmark in downtown Honolulu provides visitors with an opportunity to go back to the 19th century and learn much about Hawai‘i’s royal family. · Catch a live show at Hawaii Theatre, a fully restored performing arts showcase dating back to 1922 and situated between Chinatown and Honolulu’s financial district. A year-round calendar of entertainers makes this a lively destination. Before or after the show, enjoy a sumptuous meal at one of the many great restaurants in downtown Honolulu. If it happens to be the First Friday of the month, spend some time walking through the local art galleries during Chinatown’s First Friday gallery walk. This free event draws thousands of locals and visitors of all ages to Chinatown every month. · The annual Honolulu Festival celebrates cultures from across the Pacific. This three-day celebration of art, music, dance, and crafts, held this year from March 13-15, is filled with spectacular sights and sounds, including aboriginal dance performances, cultural demonstrations and a vibrant parade through Waikīkī. · Surf’s up this winter on O‘ahu’s famed North Shore as men and women compete in Vans Triple Crown of Surfing, the final events on the Association of Surfing Professionals’ 2009 calendar. The competitions, which run from November to December, kick off with the Op Pro at Haleiwa, followed by the O’Neill World Cup of Surfing and women’s Roxy Pro at Sunset Beach, and conclude with the Billabong Pipeline Masters at Banzai Pipeline. · O‘ahu’s farmers’ markets reveal the rich diversity of O‘ahu-grown produce and locally made foods. The Hawai‘i Farm Bureau Federation sponsors farmers’ markets throughout the week at Kapi‘olani Community College and in Kailua, Mililani and Wai‘anae. · Stand up paddleboarding, also known as SUP, has been around for decades, and is growing in popularity around the world. The sport combines surfing and canoe paddling and is best done in calm, flat water. Maneuvering the paddleboard with the paddle requires balance and provides an excellent core workout. The tranquil waters of Waikīkī, Kailua Bay, and the North Shore in summer are ideal for SUP and for travelers who want to stay in shape during their vacation. · Venture to O‘ahu’s Leeward Coast to swim with dolphins and green sea turtles with Wild Side Specialty Tours. A twin-hulled vessel will embark from Wai‘anae Harbor, and before long, dolphins will surround the vessel. An onboard marine biologist will educate guests about O‘ahu’s marine life and adventurous marine lovers can don snorkeling equipment and swim with the dolphins. Later, when the vessel nears the shore, guests can snorkel among green sea turtles and colorful tropical fish. · Located in the heart of Honolulu, Ala Moana Center is the world’s largest open-air shopping center with more than 290 merchants including major department stores, international luxury brands, local specialty shops, fine dining restaurants, and an international food court. Shop for chic apparel and accessories at Tori Richard, Shanghai Tang, Neiman Marcus, and Nordstrom; take home surf wear from Town & Country and Hawaiian Island Creations; and sample ethnic cuisines of Thailand, Korea, Japan, Hawai‘i, Mexico, and Italy at the Makai Market. · Spend a morning strolling the aisles at the Aloha Stadium Swap Meet, a popular outdoor bazaar where local vendors sell a wide range of products at very reasonable prices. Located at Hawai‘i’s largest sports venue, the Aloha Stadium Swap Meet attracts hundreds of vendors, crafters, and artists from across the globe. Come early on a Wednesday, Saturday or Sunday to find everything from souvenirs and plants to t-shirts, handcrafts, art pieces, and collectibles. All packages and events are subject to change without notice. Certain restrictions and additional taxes and fees may apply. # # #

Capital Gate in Abu Dhabi

Capital Gate in Abu Dhabi, which is set to enter the Guinness Book of Records as the ‘world’s most inclined tower.’ It will lean 4 times as far as Leaning Tower of Pisa. Capital Gate will accommodate the 5-star ‘Hyatt at Capital Centre’ hotel and will provide the most exclusive office space in Abu Dhabi.  The tower forms a major part of the Capital Centre development, a $2.2 billion business and residential micro city being constructed around the thriving Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre.

The new 200 room, 5 star hotel to be operated by Hyatt International will open in late 2009 and will be the first Hyatt operated hotel in the UAE capital. In recognition of its significance and its stature, Hyatt

International has named the hotel ‘Hyatt at Capital Centre’. It will be one of the most exclusive business hotels in the world. Hyatt International already operates 3 luxury hotels in Dubai, UAE under the brands Park Hyatt, Grand Hyatt and Hyatt Regency.

 Capital Gate leans westward an astonishing 18 degrees; by comparison the Leaning Tower of Pisa leans less than 4 degrees.  Because of its unique posture, the tower is being constructed on top of an incredibly dense mesh of reinforced steel.  The dense mesh sits above an intensive distribution of 490 piles which have been drilled 30 meters underground to accommodate the gravitational, wind and seismic pressures caused by the lean of the building.

 Its graceful, asymmetric diagonal structure, known as a ‘diagrid’, supports the tilting external load of the building and we believe that this is the first building in the world to use a pre-cambered core. Other diagrid buildings include the Hearst Tower in NYC and the “Gherkin” in London.

Besides being believed to be the ‘world’s most inclined’ building, Capital Gate also features 728 unique custom-made diamond-shaped glazing panels. Due to the structure’s curving shape, each pane of glass is different and each will be fitted at a slightly different angle.

Bowling anyone??

Foto-Op is the photograpic web site for Rich Carlson. It features his images from travels around the world and published photos. All images are available, please contact rich@richcarlson.com for pricing and check out the new travel show call talkintraveltelevision at http://www.talkintravel.com