Luxury Air Jets Meets and Greets at the Rainbow Room

Luxury Air Jets Meets and Greets at the Rainbow Room
Luxury Air Jets joined NYCBTA at the luxurious Rainbow Room on top of NYC Rockefeller Plaza to meet with some of the most prominent folks in the business travel industry. The discussions covered a full array of business and corporate travel issues such as homeland security, international trade, and technology. As expected, all the speakers touched upon the issue of private jet charter. Peter Greeenberg – travel editor for NBC's The Today Show, spoke over lunch and moderated the final discussion.

Mr. Greenberg agreed that in many cases there is an economic justification for using private jets, especially if flying multiple executives together. The taxi service, he said, is a good idea. David Neeleman - founder and Chairman of JetBlue Airways, shared his thoughts and opinions around the rules and regulations governing the nation's air transportation industry. Mr. Neeleman stressed the fact that a lot of the over crowding of the runways in New York City is caused by private jets. He did not offer a solution but just stated a fact.

NY Assemblyman Michael Gianaris who was part of the “Airline Passengers’ Bill of Rights,” in August of this year, spoke about the groundbreaking legislation and how New York is dealing with the intolerable delays at its airports, suggesting that it is not surprising that more and more people look for private aviation as a solution. C. Stewart Verdery Jr who served as the first assistant secretary for policy and planning at the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS), following his unanimous confirmation by the U.S. Senate, discussed legislation affecting the business traveler and his current work of delivering public policy results in business travel.

Mr. Verdery emphasized the urgency of arriving on time when traveling on business and how private aviation is better at it. Bill DeCota - Port Authority Director of Airports discussed his responsibility for Kennedy, Newark and LaGuardia airports and the $15 billion public-private redevelopment programs and initiatives presently underway at these airports. Mr. DeCota said that one of the reasons people pursue private aviation is because today private jets receive equal “landing opportunities” on the runways. “This is good news to our industry” says Rodney Kadymir, Luxury Air Jets Managing Director. ***

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For more information:
Luxury Air Jets™ is the premier air charter services broker, delivering a new and unparalleled way to experience private travel: the “Full Luxury Jet Experience”. This begins with a personal Aviation Concierge who handles each and every aspect of your journey. We ensure that no detail is left unaddressed, no expectation left unmet, all at the most competitive pricing in the air charter industry. Visit us for a free quote: http://www.luxuryairjets.com

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CNN Streaming Video Execlusive: New On-Demand Series

CNN Streaming Video Execlusive: New On-Demand Series
The trend for On-Demand television continues to grow as a leading platform in pop culture. With high celebrity profile and entertainment content, On-Demand TV has garnered Nielsen ratings that compete with prime time television. Networks such as MTV, TBS, and CNN along with internet and media giants like AOL™, MSN™ and People Magazine are among hundreds of companies that have embraced the features of On-Demand.

The Comcast Corporation was among the first of major distribution vehicles to become aggressive about making On-Demand television competitive. Today Comcast continues to be a leader in providing original content for various On-Demand footprints, and is now teaming up with a host of awarding winning producers to create a special On-Demand series to be distributed throughout North America. Additionally, an exclusive licensing deal with DirecTV for In-flight television with Delta, Jet Blue, and carriers of the American Airlines connection will also be the included the partnership of distributors that will broadcast the new series.

Artist-In-Residence and Inspiration On-Demand are two original programs for On-Demand subcribers. They are the ideal creations for sincere music lovers who prefer artistry that is not manufactured. Both series will encompass educational forums such as that of the hit panel show “Inside the Actors Studio”. In depth displays of true musicianship as shown on “Control Room Presents & MTV’s Unplugged”, and detailed testimonials & “a-day-in-the-life” segments will also make up a portion of the content for the two series. Artist-In-Residence will feature breakthrough artists in pop culture while Inspiration On-Demand will showcase adult contemporary artists and musicians in the genre of jazz, gospel, and international music. Coca-Cola and American Express will sponsor Artist-In-Residence and Inspiration On-Demand respectively.

On Monday, February 10th, in a live streaming video news release distributed on CNN’s website, Pop singer Kate Voegele, British Gospel group Four Korners, and International Artist Kymani Marley (Son of Bob Marley) were named among the first to be featured. The VNR was hosted by the shows’ producer Krishnar Lewis. Krishnar is most notably known as a supermodel in high-end European Fashion who made a significant transition into television as a red carpet & commentary personality. Krishnar was featured as a debuting music artist in the Rock Your Fashion ad campaign where he caught the attention of Comcast executives who would adopted the music and fashion features of Rock Your Fashion as a creative template for the new On-Demand series.

Production begins on both series in April 2008 and is schedule to begin airing in mid-summer 2008.

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source: http://www.prlog.org/10052511-cnn-streaming-video-execlusive-new-on-demand-series.html

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Golf Digest Joins Forces With The JetBlue Challenge to Provide Tournament Organizers Added Value

Golf Digest Joins Forces With The JetBlue Challenge to Provide Tournament Organizers Added Value
For Information Contact:
Christine Fitzgerald, Colana Sports Group
631.584.9544
cfitzgerald@jetbluechallenge.com

Golf Digest Teams-Up With The JetBlue Challenge To Provide Tournament Organizers Added Value, Designed To Enhance the Golfers’ Experience.
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Charities and Golf Courses Can Now Earn An ROI On Their Hole-In-One Prize Package.
New York, NY – The Golf Digest Company announced a partnership with the Colana Sports Group, operator of the JetBlue Challenge Hole In One prize package. This new twosome will enable charity tournament organizers, who use the JetBlue Challenge as part of their event, to provide participants a FREE one year subscription to either Golf Digest or Golf For Women.
“The Golf Digest partnership is another example of our commitment to provide Tournament
Organizers added value,” said Christine Fitzgerald, Colana Sports Group, “We understand the need
for fundraisers to earn a return on their investment when they choose a Hole In One solution.”

The JetBlue Challenge, for the past seven years, has provided a growing number of golf outings across the USA an opportunity to raise additional funds via the Mulligan and/or Shootout as part of the JetBlue Challenge.

“We are excited to join forces with the Colana Sports Group,” said David Olesnevich, Golf Digest,
“We support their efforts to provide charities an exciting way to raise funds at their golf outings.”

To find out more, visit www.jetbluechallenge.com or call 631.584.9544.
- End -
Colana Sports Group, Inc., 3 Saggese Lane, Nesconset, NY 11767 (631) 584-9544 ***

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source: http://www.prlog.org/10041928-golf-digest-joins-forces-with-the-jetblue-challenge-to-provide-tournament-organizers-added-value.html
About JetBlue Challenge: for the past seven years has helped a growing number of organizations add value and raise more funds via charity golf outings.

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Glenn R. Cusano has been named a Princeton Premier honored member in business.

Glenn R. Cusano has been named a Princeton Premier honored member in business.
Glenn R. Cusano, Vice President of Compliance and Audit for JetBlue Airways Corporation, has been chosen for inclusion in the 2008-2009 Princeton Premier Registry.
Source: Princeton Premier

Glenn R. Cusano studied at Quinnipiac University in Connecticut where he earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting. He was recently promoted to Vice President of Corporate Compliance and Audit for the JetBlue Airways Corporation. Glenn joined JetBlue in 2003 and acted in several Finance roles, including Assistant Controller. He advanced to his current position in April of 2007 and in this capacity, he is responsible for the company's adherence to corporate, governance and ethical standards.

He also acts as a liaison to the Audit Committee of JetBlue's Board of Directors. Glenn’s proficiency in compliance and controls make him well-equipped to espouse the company’s principles of corporate accountability and his extensive experience in Finance provide him with the proper administrative tools to excel in his appointment. He has twelve years of prior experience in Finance and is a Certified Public Accountant. He is a member of the American Institute of CPA’s and the Institution of Management Accounting. Glenn’s philosophy is that corporate accountability will drive the public back to air travel and at the forefront of that movement is the Jet Blue Airways Corp. Glenn’s commitment to JetBlue is representative of the overall diligence he practices in all aspects of his life. He stays abreast of all developments in the industry by reading Compliance Weekly and Smart Money.

Glenn Cusano makes his home in Fairfield, Connecticut. He is a contributor to the Multiple Sclerosis Society charity and a volunteer coach for the local hockey team. He enjoys spending time with his family, traveling and is a New York Rangers fan. Glenn Cusano is an exemplary role-model and a welcome addition to the 2008-2009 Princeton Premier Registry. ***

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Princeton Premier
source: http://www.prlog.org/10048235-glenn-cusano-has-been-named-princeton-premier-honored-member-in-business.html
About Princeton Premier:
Princeton Premier is the publisher of an exclusive registry comprised of business leaders and professionals making an impact in their industry and community. The online network is a large interactive business community where our valued members use the web based service daily as an online channel to assist them in meeting their specific business goals.

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JetBlue Airways launches Buy TrueBlue Points service

JetBlue Airways launches Buy TrueBlue Points service

JetBlue Airways Corporation launched its Buy TrueBlue Points service. Buy TrueBlue Points, a partnership with Points International Ltd, allows members of JetBlue’s customer loyalty program, TrueBlue, to buy points for themselves or give points to other members.
Points International will take a lead role in the operation, marketing and commercial transaction support for the Buy TrueBlue Points service. ***

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source: http://peanuts.aero/low_cost_airline_news/airline/7821/59/JetBlue+Airways+launches+Buy+TrueBlue+Points+service

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Follow Capt. Cook on Cruise Odyssey

Spring forward and look ahead to an island getaway.
If you're planning ahead for a cruise with the kids, consider trading in shuffleboard lessons and card games for a small-ship expedition cruise. Abercrombie & Kent's Polynesian Paradise cruise invites guests on the "Clipper Odyssey," following routes of legendary figures from Capt. Cook to French post-Impressionist painter Paul Gauguin. The Clipper Odyssey visits such locations as Papeete and Bora Bora, filled with tropical birds and lagoons, ancient archaeological sites and white-sand beaches.

The 15-day cruise ($7,395 a person) runs from Oct. 24-Nov. 7. Cruises have a booking window of six months. Visit www.abercrombiekent.com.

Caribbean Getaways
For a tropical paradise a bit closer to home, try the Bahamas. Take advantage of world-class diving, fishing and miles of beaches with a four-day, three-night stay at Nassau/Paradise Island or Grand Bahama Island, starting at $299 per person at participating hotels and resorts. Taxes, gratuities and surcharges aren't included. Book by March 31 for travel April 1-Dec. 15. Visit www.bahamas.com/escape or call 1-800-Bahamas.

Or head to St. Maarten with the "Shake the Blues" JetBlue Getaways package, starting at $769 a person. Enjoy a three-night stay at Sonesta Maho Beach Resort and Casino with an all-inclusive plan featuring a daily buffet breakfast, lunch, dinner, a la carte meals at Palms Grill Restaurant & Bar, unlimited alcoholic and nonalcohol drinks, nonmotorized water sports, a daily $20 casino play coupon and all hotel taxes and gratuities. Book now for stays through March 31. Visit www.jetblue.com or call 1-800-JETBLUE (538-2583), option 3.

Hit-the-Road Rally
Join the nation's largest recreational-vehicle rally, March 14-17 at the Georgia National Fairgrounds & Agricenter in Perry, Ga. Hosted by Affinity, an outdoor-recreation firm, the Rally features the latest in RVs and accessories along with live entertainment featuring Frankie Valli of the Four Seasons, family-friendly activities such as an Oreo Cookie stacking contest, and an attempt to break the world record for "the most couples dancing," at Saturday night's Prom Night.

Attendees can camp on-site for the weekend (prices start at $169 for two adults) or purchase day passes for $10 a person (kids 12 and under are free). For information call (877) 749-7122 or log on to www.therally.com.

Car With Your Room?
Guests at luxury extended-stay properties AKA can now receive a set of car keys upon check-in. Partnering with car-sharing service ZipCar, this division of Korman Communities offers guests in New York, Philadelphia and Washington a free one-year membership to ZipCar and unlimited, on-demand access to a car.

Nightly rates for a 30-day stay at AKA properties start at $245 for New York, $150 for Philadelphia and $175 for the Washington area. For reservations visit www.stay-aka.com or call (866) AKA-9999. ***

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By SHELLY BANJO
Write to Shelly Banjo at shelly.banjo@wsj.com
source: http://online.wsj.com/article/SB120459576573909347.html?mod=googlenews_wsj

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JetBlue Names Joseph Eng Executive Vice President, Systems and Technology

JetBlue Names Joseph Eng Executive Vice President, Systems and Technology
JetBlue Airways (Nasdaq:JBLU) today announces the appointment of Joseph Eng to the position of Executive Vice President, Systems and Technology. In this newly created role, Mr. Eng will be responsible for the New York-based low fare, high value airline's information systems and technology strategy.
"JetBlue has earned a reputation among customers as a technologically advanced and savvy company, from easy-to-use online booking at www.jetblue.com to the introduction last year of onboard e-mail and texting with our BetaBlue aircraft," said Russ Chew, JetBlue's President and COO.

"Technology is incredibly important to our customers, and I'm pleased to welcome Joe to the team. Joe brings a wealth of experience in finding and applying customer-focused solutions, and with his leadership, we will continue to innovate meaningful services for our customers." Mr. Eng will report to Mr. Chew, and will represent Systems and Technology on the airline's Executive Team. Duffy Mees, JetBlue's Chief Information Officer, will report to Mr. Eng.

"The appropriate and strategic use of technology is vital to JetBlue's continued success," said Dave Barger, JetBlue's CEO. "I'm pleased to have Joe join our Executive Team, where he will bring his business experience and leadership to our company."

Mr. Eng was previously President and Chief Executive Officer of Spectrum Systems, a provider of IT solutions and services to the public and private sectors. Mr. Eng was recognized by CIO Magazine as one of the top 100 CIOs in 2005 for bold leadership and in 2006 for innovation. This recognition came when he was CIO, leading product development, technology, and global operations, for SWIFT, a world-wide provider of mission critical financial messaging services. Prior to that, he held leadership positions in the telecommunications industry.

"I'm honored to join the JetBlue team," Mr. Eng said. "As an air traveler, I appreciate the customer orientation of the company, and I look forward to contributing to its continued success. The appropriate use of technology to make the customer experience exceptional will continue to set JetBlue apart from the industry." ***

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source: JetBlue Airways
and http://www.airtransportnews.aero/article.pl?id=9616

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Passenger Bill fo Rights Sought by Consumer Advocates

Talk of a passengers bill of rights began a year ago, after a Jet Blue plane was stuck on the tarmac for 12 hours. Jet Blue later apologized and came up with its own passenger bill of rights, but other airlines haven't, and that's why consumer advocates say the government needs to step in.

"We get some of the most horrifying stories from the Philadelphia airport that I've ever heard. We get people calling with children who are ill and they're begging the pilots to take them back to the gate and the pilots refuse to take them back to the gates," said Kate Hanni of the Coalition for Airline Passengers.

Once a full plane pulls away from the gate, Hanni says things can get very uncomfortable. "They're not given useable toilets, they're not give many times breathable air. Sometimes they're so hot there are people passing out on the planes," said Hanni.

The Coalition for Airline passengers wants a Pennsylvania bill to pass. It would limit the amount of time passengers can be stuck on the taramac to three hours before the plane has to turn around and go back to the gate.

The organization opened a complaint line that has been flooded with calls. "Delta Air has stranded passengers, no air conditioning, children are in distress." "It is now close to 4 hours sitting here on the tarmac." "I am stuck on the tarmac and it is 5 hours and we have not left."

A spokesman for the Air Transport Association, which represents the airlines, told me, "Those stories are greatly exaggerated." He went on to say the airlines have set up their own task force to deal with delays, but says a passenger bill of rights will lead to flight cancellations and then people will not make it to their destinations.

Yet, we found plenty of passengers with their own horror stories. Many believe a passenger bill of rights is a good idea. Jeannie Ann Walls, passenger, "I just moved here from Phoenis and we were stuck 9 hours on the runway. 9 hours. That's awful. What was it like? Awful! You can't move there's kids crying and everyone's miserable and you're hungry."

"It would be very good for a lot of people who are claustrophobic or have trouble sitting especially without the air," said Laura Bell another passenger.

Pilots are often reluctant to turn around and return to the gate because then they loose their place in line for takeoff. The airlines say when that happens crews often time out and can't fly and then the flight has to be cancelled. The Pennsylvania bill was introduced several months ago, but it's stuck in committee. New Jersey lawmakers are also considering a passengers bill of rights. New York is the only state that has passed one. ***

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By Robin Taylor
source: http://www.myfoxphilly.com/myfox/pages/News/Detail?contentId=5929077&version=5&locale=EN-US&layoutCode=TSTY&pageId=3.2.1

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Jet Blue from American Express

Jet Blue from American Express
The American Express card company is one of the most reputed financial service organizations functioning worldwide. Founded in 1850, the credit cards of this company have become synonymous with excellent customer service, immediate purchasing power and amazing benefits to its cardholders. Jet Blue from American Express is one such card and is travel based.

The Main Features of Jet Blue from American Express
The Jet Blue from American Express is ideal for those with good credit and who fly regularly with Jet Blue Airlines thereby taking advantage of the excellent rewards program. The introductory APR for this card is 3.99%, which continues for a period of for six months and applies to purchases and balance transfers submitted with the application. Thereafter, you are introduced to a regular APR, which standing at 18.24%, is above average.

There is also an annual fee of $40, which, however, is much less compared to other airline reward cards from Amex. There is no spending limit on this card. There is a system of rewards in the form of award points for every dollar spent using this card, which can be redeemed for shopping, travel and entertainment.

The Reward Points
The points program for the JetBlue card is that for every dollar spent using the card, cardholders receive 1 Awards Dollar. Two Award Dollars are earned for each dollar spent on JetBlue flights, restaurants, movie theaters, gym memberships, event tickets and golf course fees. Cardholders earn $ 5000 bonus dollars when they make their first purchase with the card.

For every 200 Award Dollars accumulated, cardholders receive 1 trueBlue point and for every 100-trueBlue points, cardholders receive 1 Award Flight. In mathematical terms, this means $200 (real dollars) spent on the card gives you 1 trueBlue point and $20000 spent on the card gives1 Awards Flight. Using the Card or flying JetBlue will extend the life of your points to a full year. There is no limit to the amount of Award Dollars that can be earned but TrueBlue award-points expire 1 year after they are issued.

Redeeming The Award Points
Points can be redeemed against rewards from 21 airlines, hundreds of hotels worldwide, vacation packages, over 50 cruise itineraries, and spa retreats. Members can also transfer points to 11 frequent flyer programs – in most programs you get 1 point for 1 airline mile. Points can also be redeemed for rewards from over 50 of the finest names in shopping and entertainment, including Banana Republic, Saks Fifth Avenue, COACH®, DellTM Computer, Callaway® Golf, and The Sharper Image®.

Who the Card Is Ideal For
Jet Blue from American Express is good for someone who can afford to pay in full after the introductory period expires and will spend at least $20000 on the card and uses JetBlue services frequently. Awards dollars never expire, but points and rewards expire after 1 year. That is what makes it so important to use JetBlue at least once a year. This card is not meant for someone who will need to make large purchases and carry a balance.

Other Benefits
You can receive up to $100 annually if you book your trip with American Express Travel. The purchase protection plan protects purchases made with this card up to 90 days. There is online fraud protection guarantee. While using the card online for shopping, you will not have to pay for unauthorized charges. Also various Internet account related services, auto rental insurance, emergency card replacement, medical and legal referral services and up to $100000 in travel accident insurance are provided for by the Jet Blue from American Express.***

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By Richard Gilliland
Richard Gilliland Provides Expert opinions and reviews to help you Compare and Apply for a Credit Card - Compare Credit Card Offers with Credit-Wisdom.com - Unraveling the best in Personal and Business Credit Cards.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Richard_Gilliland

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Jet Blue | Caribbean Business in Brief

Caribbean Business in Brief
CaribWorldNews, NEW YORK, NY, Fri. Jan. 25, 2008: Dominican officials have confirmed that plans to build an oil refinery with Venezuelan assistance will go ahead, despite objections from local environmentalists. Reginald Austrie, Minister for Housing, Lands & Telecommunications in Dominica, dismissed claims by the local Waitukubuli Ecological Foundation that the refinery will pollute the lush Caribbean country, which markets itself as the region's `Nature Island.`

Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez this month announced his government would build the refinery to process Venezuelan crude for developing islands across the eastern Caribbean, as part of Petrocaribe, a regional initiative that sells 14 Caribbean nations discount fuel. Dominican Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit has said construction will begin as soon as a study of the refinery's environmental impact is completed. The government said that the US$50 million refinery will produce about 10,000 barrels of oil a day.

President Bush among attendees for IDB Meeting
More than 8,000 attendees including President George Bush, the presidents of Mexico and Brazil, pop star Ricky Martin and Microsoft’s Bill Gates are expected for this year’s meeting of the Inter-American Development Bank in Miami. The April 4-8 meeting at the Miami Beach Convention Center is being dubbed as one of the biggest business events ever in South Florida. It's the first time the meeting convenes in Florida since 1987 and the first with a strong business and philanthropic focus.

The host committee aims to provide $7 million in cash and in-kind contributions for the mega-event, and about half of that has been secured from companies in Miami-Dade, Broward and Palm Beach counties, chairman Jorge Arrizurieta said. The meeting comes as the Washington-based bank funded by governments shifts its focus under new leadership. The IDB now seeks to boost the role of business and philanthropy to help develop economies in Latin America and the Caribbean.

The IDB features 47 countries as members, with 26 nations that borrow its funds. In 2007, the bank approved $9 billion in new financing, the largest volume since 1999. It long has ranked as the top source of multilateral finance for the Latin American region.

JetBlue to add St Maarten to its destination
JetBlue has announced that it will offer daily non-stop service between New York’s John F Kennedy International Airport and St Maarten. `We want our customers to travel in style and comfort, whether it's more legroom in our all-leather seats, free snacks, complimentary movies or our award-winning personal and sincere service,` said Dave Barger, CEO of JetBlue Airways. `They also deserve more affordable flights from the Northeast to the Caribbean, and we're excited to offer daily year-round fares that are almost 30 percent lower than pre-JetBlue fares from New York to the beautiful island destination of St. Maarten. Lower fares means you have more of your budget to spend in beautiful St. Maarten or one of our 10 other Caribbean destinations.`

Customers flying JetBlue to and from St. Maarten will travel in style aboard the airline's modern Airbus A320 fleet, which features all-leather seating and the most legroom in coach (based on average fleet-wide seat pitch for U.S. airlines), as well as complimentary first-run movies and bonus features from FOX InFlight on JetBlue's signature seatback televisions. - CaribWorldNews.com ***

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source: http://www.caribbeanworldnews.com/business_one.php?sid=932&a=4&cut=301&ad=business

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Tourcaster: Audio tours, IPOD tours and MP3 tours

Tourcaster: Audio tours, IPOD tours and MP3 tours

Take in your surroundings at your own pace. Forget about the embarrassing tour groups with matching hats. Free yourself of rude tourists pushing past you to hear the guide. Take pictures without waiting your turn and explore the sites you want to see! Tourcaster has the largest database of downloadable audio tours narrated by experienced guides for cities, monuments and historical landmarks spanning the globe. Chances are if you want to go there, Tourcaster can guide you there.
Take the stress out of sightseeing and discover your vacation destination!

Here is how Tourcaster works for consumers:

1. Consumers download our audio tours from www.tourcaster.com, or one of our partner websites.

2. Each downloaded tour comes with multiple mp3 files and a map for each city or tourist destination. The maps are numbered with stopping points that correspond to each audio track.

3. Through programs such as iTunes, Real.com, Napster, etc, individuals save and transfer their downloaded tours to an iPOD or other MP3 listening device.

4. That's it! They are now set to take an informative guided tour of historic sites around the world.

Tourcaster puts the power back in the traveler's hands allowing them the freedom and flexibility to discover the attractions of the world without the frustration. We would love for you to share your thoughts about our site. Please check out www.tourcaster.com and help us spread the word on how travelers can help take back their vacations.***

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by Vanessa Auburn
For more information please contact Vanessa Auburn ph: 310-524-1220 ext. 103 email: vanessa@tourcaster.com
Vanessa Auburn for Tourcaster
source: http://www.getmyarticles.com/
image: http://www.nonstopmac.com/images/ipod-family.jpg

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Oasis in the Air: Oasis Hongkong Airlines

Oasis in the Air: Oasis Hongkong Airlines
Transportation Minister Kevin Falcon had to raise his voice over the hubbub at a lavish launch party for Oasis Hongkong Airlines at Yaletown's Goldfish restaurant recently. "All you people talking by the window there," he said to no apparent effect, "we're going to draw a business-class ticket to Hong Kong. So, if you don't hear your name, you're going to miss it."

Many have heard their names called since May, when airline chair Rev. Raymond Lee, 55, began scattering biz-class tickets like manna among the city's influential. After all, Oasis has 81 such seats, at $1,399 per, on the 747-400 aircraft it has scheduled for six-days-a-week Vancouver-Hong Kong service. There are 278 more in economy class, with tickets from $299.

The airline began daily Hong Kong-London service in 2006.

"For us to introduce a jumbo jet to Vancouver increases [existing] capacity by 40 per cent," Lee said. A Faith Community Church pastor and graduate of Hong Kong's elite Diocesan Boys School and Harvard University, he claimed Oasis will not need to raid other carriers.

That might occur only if transpacific boardings were to remain static. Lee calls that a red ocean strategy, based on analysts and traditional observers seeing no more than 500,000 passengers annually. "But we believe our blue ocean strategy has identified an untapped market we estimate at 1.5 million in five years," he said, meaning those specifically attracted by lower fares as well as the 380,000 ethnic Chinese living in Greater Vancouver and the 250,000 Canadians in Hong Kong.

"The sky's the limit," said wife and Oasis executive director Priscilla Hwang Lee. She's also a New England Conservatory of Music-trained pianist, whose recitals of Rachmaninoff and Shostakovich concertos doubtless accustomed her to thinking big.

The two reportedly own some 60 per cent of Oasis, which has postponed an initial public offering of HK$10 billion ($1.35 billion Cdn) until 2009 or 2020, when it proposes to operate 15 or more aircraft.

As on the London route, economy passengers get reasonable leg room, TV-seatback entertainment and hot meals. But there's no pie in the sky about the Lees' blue-ocean policy for serving non-traditional customers. They've applied it since 1995 to their Oasis Development Enterprises, which is based in Massachusetts' former Boston Stock Exchange building and owns a portfolio of 30 U.S. properties that includes the Wells Fargo & Co's Las Vegas regional headquarters and is rumoured to be worth close to $1 billion.

For that business, the policy is called the 50, 75 and 25 per-cent rule, said Raymond Lee. "At 50 per-cent occupancy, we plan to break even. At 75 per-cent occupancy, we look to making a 25-per-cent return. So, with the remaining 25 per cent, we have the opportunity to do some good."

That means providing low- or no-cost office space for Habitat for Humanity and other non-profit organizations. It also means an average occupancy of 96 per cent, Lee said.

The firm reports 90 per-cent occupancy for its extensive holdings in once-decaying Lynn, a Massachusetts industrial community, once known as Sin City, that began calling itself City of Firsts a decade ago. ODE's policy, Lee said, is "to catalyse prosperity in regions of despair through strategies of public participation and local empowerment,"

As for getting the less financially empowered aboard his aircraft, Lee said: "I really take pleasure in offering superior service. I find that a spiritual undertaking. If I were in church, people might say, Amen."

Started in October 2006, Oasis Hong Kong Airlines pioneers a fresh approach to flying. We are now flying daily flying daily between Hong Kong, London and Vancouver.For more information visit http://www.oasishongkong.com

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Source: Oasis Hong Kong Airlines Limited
http://www.oasishongkong.com

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