Vision Airlines offers $39 one-way fares, introduces discounted vacation packages, adds routes

Suwanee, Ga. – April 28, 2011 -

At a time when gasoline prices continue to soar, Vision Airlines announced today that the company is offering one-way fares starting at $39 on select flights for travel completed by June 30, 2011. These special one-way fares are for flights to and from Florida and Atlanta. These limited-time fares are available beginning April 28, 2011 and can be booked for travel on selected flights and days of the week through June 20, 2011. Vision Airlines’ new Las Vegas routes are excluded from this offer and these limited fares can only be booked on the company’s website at http://www.visionairlines.com.

“Vision Airlines will continue to innovate and seek new ways to bring value to the consumer,” said David Meers, Vision Airlines’ Chief Operating Officer.

The airline is introducing discount vacation packages at the same time as the new promotional fares, in conjunction with its partner, Tourico Holidays.

A traveler can book hotels anywhere in the world, book cruises and rental cars or a variety of other activities at http://www.visionairlines.com.

“Our discounted vacation packages deliver maximum value with some of the lowest prices available anywhere,” Meers said. We urge consumers to check and compare us with other online travel companies. We have the lowest prices and the best values. Our partner, Tourico Holidays, has enabled us to offer these great discounts to consumers.”

Vision Airlines recently introduced several new routes including:

St Louis to Destin/Ft

Walton Beach, Tunica/Memphis to Destin/Ft. Walton Beach, Ft. Lauderdale to Destin/Ft

Walton Beach, Lafayette, LA to Destin/Ft Walton Beach and non-stop flights from both

Baton Rouge and Destin/Ft. Walton Beach to Las Vegas.

“More great news for travelers to Florida’s Emerald Coast” said Mark Bellinger, President of the Emerald Coast Convention & Visitors Bureau. “These amazing low fares will continue to boost travel and economic development along Florida’s Emerald Coast.”

Vision Airlines currently services 23 markets from its hub at Northwest Florida Regional Airport, located in Destin/Ft. Walton Beach, including non-stop flights to Las Vegas andother popular leisure destinations.

Vision Airlines started in 1994 in Las Vegas, NV. The company offered popular tourist flights from Las Vegas to the Grand Canyon. Over the years, the company grew its brand and its operational capabilities. It became one of the prominent charter carriers in the world. Vision Airlines’ clients have included presidential candidates, celebrities,professional sports teams and some of the best-known gaming resorts and tour operators in the US.

VISION AIRLINES CITIES

•Asheville, NC – Atlanta, GA – Baton Rouge, LA – Chattanooga, TN

Columbia, SC – Destin/Ft. Walton Beach, FL – Ft. Lauderdale, FL

•Greenville/Spartanburg, SC – Gulfport/Biloxi, MS – Houston, TX – Huntsville, AL

Knoxville, TN – Lafayette, LA –Las Vegas, NV-Little Rock, AR – Louisville, KY-Punta Gorda/Ft. Myers

•Sanford/Orlando, FL – Savannah, GA – Shreveport, LA -St. Petersburg/Clearwater/Tampa, FL,

•Tunica/Memphis, TN – St Louis, MO

KIDS RIDE FREE AS PART OF AMTRAK 40TH ANNIVERSARY

Amtrak's passenger trains offer a unique travel experience; to celebrate its 40th anniveresary, Amtrak is letting kids ride for free, from May 1 - June 9 but you must book by May 6 (© 2011 Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com)

In celebration of Amtrak’s 40th anniversary on May 1, America’s Railroadsm is offering several ways the public can join in on the fun, including a special fare promotion, an anniversary website, and a commemorative book and documentary DVD. In addition, the initial schedule of the Exhibit Train is posted online so that those interested can plan a visit to experience this unique travelling display showcasing the railroad’s history.

Amtrak 40th Anniversary Kids Ride Free Fare Promotion

As part of the Amtrak 40th anniversary celebration, children, ages 2 to 15, can ride free of charge for 40 days between May 1 and June 9, when traveling on the same itinerary with an adult who purchased a regular adult rail fare.

Families must make reservations in advance between now and May 6, and a minimum of three (3) days prior to travel in order to take advantage of the Kids Ride Free promotion. This offer is valid for sleeping car accommodations upon payment of a full accommodation charge.

To make reservations, visit Amtrak.com or call 1-800-USA-RAIL and use the discount code H859. The discount is not valid in conjunction with any other offers. Some blackout dates and seat restrictions may apply. This offer is valid on all Amtrak service except: Acela Express, Downeaster, Capitol Corridor, and Thruway bus series 7000-8999.

Amtrak 40th Anniversary Exhibit Train and Initial Schedule

The Amtrak Exhibit Train will be touring the country after making its debut at the National Train Day event in Washington, D.C., on May 7. The free exhibit showcases Amtrak

history over the decades, displaying memorabilia like vintage advertising, past menus and

dinnerware, and period uniforms. Most locations also will feature train-themed kids’ activities at Chuggington Kids Depot. In addition, commemorative 40th anniversary merchandise will be available for purchase onboard the train.

The initial three-month schedule of the Exhibit Train for May through July is as follows. Information about each stop can be found on the official website at Amtrak40th.com where upcoming locations and dates also will be posted.

May 7 Washington Union Station*

May 14 – 15 Lorton Auto Train Terminal

May 21 – 22 Baltimore Penn Station

May 28 – 29 Philadelphia 30th Street Station

June 4 – 5 Perryville MARC Station

June 11 – 12 Harrisburg Amtrak Station

June 18 – 19 Strasburg Rail Road*

June 25 – 26 Strasburg Rail Road*

July 9 – 10 Springfield Amtrak Station

July 16 – 17 New Haven Union Station

July 23 – 24 New London Union Station

July 30 – 31 Providence Amtrak Station

*Chuggington Depot is not available at Washington Union Station or Strasburg Rail Road events.

Official Amtrak 40th Anniversary Website and Merchandise

The official website at Amtrak40th.com provides details of the anniversary celebration and tells the Amtrak story by allowing users to explore 40 years of historic photographs and other materials in an extensive and dynamic archive. The site also hosts a blog, provides a link to an online store where a variety of 40th anniversary merchandise can be purchased, and allows individuals to sign up to receive an email alert when the Exhibit Train is coming near their town.

Official Amtrak 40th Anniversary Book and DVD

The 144-page commemorative book, Amtrak: An American Story, chronicles the history of the railroad with archival photographs, a historical timeline and personal narratives for each decade. Chapter introductions are written by former company leaders and the book contains an employee-generated photo essay of 24-hours in the life of the railroad.

The documentary DVD, Amtrak: The First 40 Years, provides an exclusive look inside America’s Railroadsm with hard-to-find photographs and video footage as well as interviews with past and present leaders who have shaped the railroad’s history. A preview of the DVD can be seen here. Both items will be available for purchase online and onboard the Exhibit Train.

 

Amtrak 40th Anniversary Cachet and United States Postal Service Postmark

To mark the 40th anniversary of Amtrak, a commemorative cachet (envelope) was produced featuring an Amtrak train and a silk appliqué of the Amtrak 40th logo. In addition, the envelope bears a special pictorial postmark authorized by the United States Postal Service. This pictorial postmark was created just for this historic event and can be a treasured collectible for years to come.

 

Amtrak Locomotives with Historic Paint Schemes

The first sign of the Amtrak 40th anniversary celebration occurred when the first of four P-42 diesel-electric locomotives with one of four historic Amtrak paint schemes entered regular revenue service in January. The four locomotives represent each of the paint schemes that were introduced in 1973, 1975, 1979 and 1993.

Each of the historically painted locomotives is now in operation helping to move passengers across the Amtrak national network. Photos of these locomotives are available on the Photos tab on the Amtrak Facebook page at facebook.com/Amtrak.

Celebrating 40 years of dedicated service as America’s Railroadsm, Amtrak is the nation’s intercity passenger rail provider and its only high-speed rail operator. A record 28.7 million passengers traveled on Amtrak in FY 2010 on more than 300 daily trains – at speeds up to 150 mph (241 kph) – that connect 46 states, the District of Columbia and three Canadian Provinces. Amtrak operates trains in partnership with 15 states and four commuter rail agencies. Amtrak also is a strong financial performer achieving an 85 percent cost-recovery ratio in FY 2010. Enjoy the journeysm at Amtrak.com or call 800-USA-RAIL for schedules, fares and more information. Join us on facebook.com/Amtrak and follow us at twitter.com/Amtrak.

See our story: Amtrak’s AutoTrain is unique way to travel to Florida – old-style of travel gains new appreciation

Aranui III, Marquesas Islands Makes Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel 2011

The Marquesas Islands was recently named one of Lonely Planet's "Top 10 regions" – highlighting the Aranui III as the "umbilical cord between Tahiti and the Marquesas" (photo credit: Alain Marcouli).

Leading travel publication and go-to guide for adventure-driven escapes, Lonely Planet, recently featured the Marquesas Islands as one of its “Top 10 regions” – highlighting the Aranui III as the “umbilical cord between Tahiti and the Marquesas.”

“This distinction is an honor for us, particularly for our hard-working crew, many of whom have been introducing travelers to the Marquesas for over two decades,” said Jules Wong, marketing director for the Aranui III.

“While the cruise itself takes a backseat to the undisturbed beauty and grandeur of the seldomly visited Marquesas Islands, our local crew works diligently to ensure the onboard experience is as unique and memorable as the islands themselves,” added Wong.

The guide goes on to note the lack of swanky resorts in the Marquesas, describing the circuit – which is only accessible to travelers via the Aranui III – as “an ecotourist’s dream.”

In addition to picturesque valleys on Nuku Hiva and Hiva Oa, Lonely Planet extols the Marquesan Arts Festival, which is held only once every four years (the next one is coming up in December 2011) and features indigenous dance performances, local cuisine and arts and crafts displays.

Rates for the 14-day journey on the Aranui III range from $2,079 to $5,445 per person, based on double occupancy, depending on stateroom configuration. There is a 10% surcharge for the Dec. 9 Marquesan Arts Festival departure, which includes festival admission

Rates do not include port, cruise and tourism taxes, which may total up to $350 depending on stateroom category and an $80 fuel surcharge.

The cruise includes three daily meals with complimentary wine, guided excursions outlined in the itinerary, picnic and meals on shore. Optional excursions such as scuba diving, horseback riding, fishing and helicopter tours are additional.

The Aranui 3 is a mixed passenger-cargo vessel operating between Tahiti and the Marquesas, offering comfortable, air-conditioned accommodations for about two hundred passengers. The ship features 63 tastefully designed standard cabins, nine deluxe staterooms and 14 elegantly appointed private balcony suites.

Featuring a crew primarily composed of local inhabitants from French Polynesia and the Marquesas Islands, the Aranui 3 combines world class hospitality with top-notch amenities and mesmerizing scenery for an unforgettable sailing experience.

The cruise departs from the Tahitian island of Papeete, visiting the seldomly explored lush, tropical islands of Tahuata, Nuku Hiva, Ua Pou, Hiva Oa, Ua Huka and Fatu Hiva, as well as Fakarava and Rangiroa in the Tuamotu Islands, before returning to Papeete.

The on-shore experiences include awe-inspiring hikes past majestic waterfalls and translucent lagoons, jungle ruins and sacred ritual sites with enigmatic petroglyphs, and encounters with local artisans.

For more information, contact Aranui at 800-972-7268 or visit www.aranui.com.

Win a Dream Vacation at Eagle Lodge on private Eagle Island in Georgia

You can win a stay at Eagle Lodge on the private Eagle Island in Georgia for having the winning Georgia shrimp recipe.

If you have ever dreamt of having your own private island vacation, Capt. Andy Hill invites you to share your best Shrimp Recipe to win a 5-Moon Grand Prize Vacation on Eagle Island. One of the islands in his exquisite collection of PrivateIslandssofGeorgia.com . Eagle Island guests savor local fresh ‘wild’ Georgia shrimp, an important ingredient in almost every coastal-inspired dish they enjoy throughout the year.

Eagle Island’s style is ‘classic, contemporary and fun!’ Some of the Island’s amenities are:

• Eagle Lodge, sleeping accommodations for 10-12
• Two full Lodge bathrooms, one outdoor 5-Moon enclosed luxury shower
• Great room with full equipped kitchen, dining table and sitting area with fireplace
• Outdoor kitchen equipped with oyster roaster, two grills (gas & charcoal) and full commercial ice machine
• Wrap-around screened porch with swinging couch, hammock hot tub for six and fireplace
• Two outdoor fire pits
• Private dock with a deck for entertaining, fishing and deep-water access at all tides
• Internet access, DIRECTV®
• Peace, quiet, tranquility, seclusion and total privacy!

OFFICIAL RULES:

Submit a Shrimp Recipe including all ingredients and preparation to Leigh Cort Publicity at leighcort@bellsouth.net

Accompany the Shrimp Recipe with a 100 word essay about why I want to win “My Dream Private Eagle Island Vacation”

Include name, address, telephone #. Entries based on originality.

Deadline for entries is August 30, 2011

Entrants must be 18 years or older

All entries become the property of PrivateIslandsofGeorgia.com

You MUST Answer the following question from PrivateIslandsofGeorgia.com website:

If you bring your own boat to Eagle Island, Capt. Andy will credit your stay $____

www.LeighCortPublicity.com/contest.htm

The 5-Moon Grand Prize Winner Receives:

1.      Two nights on Eagle Island for up to (6) people ~ Sunday thru Thursday

2.      5 pounds of fresh wild-caught Georgia shrimp

3.      Eagle Island Luxury Tote Bag

4.      Keepsake Coastal Georgia Map

5.      Eagle Island Cap

WHO CAN ENTER:   Entrants must be 18 or over. There are no substitutions or transfer of prizes. Prize is not redeemable for cash.

Winner will be announced first week in September, 2011.

By acceptance of prize, winner consents to use of their names and/or photographs for publicity purposes without further compensation.

Capt. Andy Hill, Eagle Island, Georgia, 912-222-0801,  www.PrivateIslandsofGeorgia.com

Extended Ski Season, Cycling Events, Memorial Weekend Festivities and Spring Deals at Tahoe’s Granlibakken

Apr. 25, 2011 (Tahoe City, Calif.) – Ever see a Viking on a sled? How about a bike? Or perhaps a pair of skis? As Tahoe area resorts celebrate the arrival of spring with pond skimming, live music and snow volleyball, Granlibakken (www.Granlibakken.com) is tapping into its Norwegian roots to unleash a series of events and offers with their Vikings leading the charge. Local Granlibakken spokes-Viking, Bjorn t’Party will rile up the masses as a special guest at a variety of spring events from Amgen Tour of California, the largest cycling race in North America, to the official West Shore Summer Opening party. But before Bjorn can usher in the warmer months of summer, skiers and snowboarders will have a chance to sneak in springtime turns on the slopes of several North Shore resorts that have extended the season beyond April into May. At Squaw Valley USA, snow sport enthusiasts will carve and slide all the way into Memorial Weekend. In celebration of the longer season, Granlibakken has a two day Squaw Package at $97 per person, per night including lift tickets to the nearby resort, lodging and breakfast valid anytime through the resort’s closing day. A two day package is also available for Alpine Meadows for $102 per person, per night through May 15. The Granlibakken one-day interchangeable ticket is $114 per person and is valid at Squaw Valley, Alpine Meadows and Mt. Rose through May. In anticipation of the Amgen Tour of California Stage 1 Start, Finish and Stage 2 Start at Lake Tahoe, cycling enthusiasts and spectators gain easy access to race-related events during the week of May 6 – 16 with lodging rates at Granlibakken from $99 per night including breakfast. Also during the cycling extravaganza, the resort will partner with Tahoe Tree Company to host an Amgen Street Fair, May 15. The event will feature live music, food from Uncommon Kitchen and Granlibakken, bike demonstrations by CyclePaths, a climbing wall, face painting, beer, wine, hot drinks, ice cream, games and more. Spectators at the intersection of Highway 89 and Granlibakken Road will have a front row seat to cheer the peloton as riders whiz by at approximately 11:45 a.m. and 2:25 p.m. en route to the Stage 1 finish at Northstar-at-Tahoe (www.TahoeAmgenTourofCalifornia). Memorial Weekend, May 27 – 29, is the official Summer Opening for West Shore Lake Tahoe and is jam packed with entertainment for the entire family. Visitors can take advantage of an exclusive lodging package: stay one night, get the second night free, starting at $143 per night. Details: www.Granlibakken.com. Obexer’s Marina will serve as host venue for the Fly-In Splash Down on Monday, May 30, where spectators can watch as seaplanes from Northern Nevada and California execute impressive water landings and glide into marina slips for the afternoon. Annual deck and pier opening parties at several West Shore restaurants include Sunnyside, Chambers Landing, the West Shore Café and The Bridgetender. Additional options at Granlibakken during the spring and summer months include hiking or mountain biking along resort accessible trails, as well as tennis, swimming, ropes course, stand up paddleboarding, sailing, river rafting and shopping in nearby Tahoe City Located just one half mile from the shores of Lake Tahoe, Granlibakken serves as a central home base for a long list of warm weather activities. For information about Granlibakken’s resort amenities, events, nearby activities and more, visit www.Granlibakken.com, or get updates and the latest deals on Facebook and Twitter.

Eco-Friendly Rail Vacations For Earth Day–And Every Other Day

Traveling by rail isn't just good for the environment and the wallet, it also is a unique adventure, giving a special perspective of scenery. Here, Alaska's train, from Denali National Park to Talkeetna © 2011 Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com

Go “green” and save with vacations that are kind to the environment and the pocket book

Chicago, Illinois – April 18, 2011 –

With Earth Day around the corner, the environment—and our role in protecting it—is top of mind as we’re reminded of our social responsibility be it in every day activities or in coordinating the annual family vacation. Travelers interested in planning an eco-friendly getaway need not look further than a train package from Vacations By Rail. The Chicago-based travel company specializes in train vacations to popular destinations throughout the world that decrease one’s carbon footprint and the impact of travel on the environment while offering a unique vacation experience.

Within the United States, Vacations By Rail incorporates travel aboard some of Amtrak’s most iconic trains including the legendary California Zephyr, historic Empire Builder, and stunning Coast Starlight. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, domestic travel by train is 20% more efficient than air travel and 28% more efficient than travel by car on a per-passenger-mile basis.

Similarly, train travel within Canada has been made even more environmentally-friendly with the use of greener locomotives along VIA Rail’s transcontinental rail routes as well as eco-friendly maintenance practices among other green innovations to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Train travel is also more energy efficient, using less fuel per passenger mile than cars or airplanes. With the price of gasoline expected to reach unprecedented rates per gallon this summer, it is also an affordable mode of transportation for upcoming vacations. Handing over driving and navigation duties to the railroad, travelers can experience parts of the country accessible by no other means of transportation when riding the rails, enjoying a unique perspective of nature and its unspoiled beauty.

Go green with Vacations By Rail. Select from hundreds of vacations that include historic rail routes, eco-friendly trains, breathtaking scenery, unique sightseeing, and National Parks. Visit www.vacationsbyrail.com or speak with a rail specialist at 877-929-7245.

About Vacations by Rail:
Vacations By Rail is the leading seller of rail travel and tours in North America and the trusted authority on rail vacations. Travelers can choose from the largest selection of independent rail vacations, escorted rail tours, and luxury rail journeys around the world.  Vacations By Rail also provides virtually every European rail pass and ticket to meet customers’ European travel needs. For more information on Vacations By Rail and the company’s products, visit www.vacationsbyrail.com or call 877-929-7245.

MYSTERY AT THE MUSEUM IS NEW WAY TO EXPERIENCE AMERICAN MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY IN NYC

The American Museum of Natural History is known for its thought-provoking exhibits like "Brain: The Inside Story" © 2011 Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com

From the creators of Accomplice—theatrical experiences set on the streets of New York City, Hollywood, and London—comes an exciting new way to explore the American Museum of Natural History in New York City. Part walking tour, part game, and part theater, Mystery at the Museum is an immersive adventure through the Museum’s halls. Meet characters, follow clues, and solve puzzles as you unravel a tale that takes you through iconic Museum locations and behind-the-scenes areas. Challenging and engaging, comical and poignant, Mystery at the Museum is an experience you won’t soon forget.

Mystery at the Museum is offered Saturdays and Sundays (8 performances per day; each performance runs approximately 2 hours) Admission is $50 (10 and up); advance purchase is required.

For more information and to book tickets, visit: http://www.amnh.org/calendar/event/Mystery-at-the-Museum:-An-Accomplice-Adventure/

World’s Largest Dinosaurs

Meanwhile, the museum best known for its dinosaurs has just opened its newest blockbuster exhibit The World’s Largest Dinosaurs (on view April 16, 2011–January 2, 2012). The World’s Largest Dinosaurs  focuses on sauropods, a group that includes the largest animals ever to have walked on Earth. Sauropod dinosaurs were extraordinarily successful, surviving for more than 100 million years. The World’s Largest Dinosaurs examines the biology and behavior of sauropods, looking particularly at how these animals evolved to such tremendous sizes. he highlight of the exhibition will be a life-sized model of the 60-foot-long sauropod Mamenchisaurus. The dramatic model is fully fleshed out on one side, while the other side will be a “visible dinosaur,” revealing bones, muscles, and internal organs. The exhibition also features specimens from the Museum’s collections of sauropod teeth, vertebrae, skin impressions, and a variety of other ancient specimens. Hands-on, computer-based activities let visitors investigate adaptations that allowed these animals to grow so big. The World’s Largest Dinosaurs is organized by the American Museum of Natural History (www.amnh.org) in collaboration with Coolture  Marketing, Bogotá, Colombia.

To plan a visit, go to http://www.amnh.org. Find the American Museum of Natural History on Facebook at facebook.com/naturalhistory or visit twitter.com/AMNH to follow on Twitter.

See also

‘Brain: The Inside Story’ at American Museum of Natural History makes you think

Vail Cascade Resort marks Earth Day with renewed focus on sustainability

Vail, Colorado in summer offers opportunities to enjoy outdoor activities. Vail Cascade Resort is committed to sustainable travel © 2011 Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com

The Vail Cascade Resort recognizes Earth Day on Friday, April 22 with a renewed focus on protecting the environment, fostering education regarding environmentally friendly actions and recognizing leaders within the resort who support sustainable living practices.  In celebration of Earth Day, associates have the opportunity to participate in “green initiatives” such as flower and herb garden planting on property, highway and river clean-ups, and encouragement to carpool, walk or ride a bike to work.

Additionally, Vail Cascade Resort general manager Brett Schoenfield has issued the following proclamation:

“Over the past three years, the Vail Cascade Resort has adopted the Destination Earth program with the knowledge that the resort’s customers and associates all benefit from a healthy, sustainable environment.   The property has a designated ‘green team’ onsite and has made a commitment to pursuing the following ideals:

• Sourcing environmentally responsible services and products locally, and purchasing organic, Earth-friendly and recycled supplies whenever possible.
• Purchasing fresh and sustainable foods locally grown, whenever possible.
• Creating partnerships with other organizations that have demonstrated a commitment to preserving the environment.
• Encouraging associates to apply eco-friendly practices in their daily operations.

Schoenfield concluded by stating, “At Vail Cascade Resort, we acknowledge that the Earth’s environment needs our genuine protection and care, and on the upcoming celebration of Earth Day this Friday, we proclaim our continued dedication to the Destination Earth program.”

Vail Cascade Resort was also awarded a “5 Green Keys” designation from Green Key Global, an organization that specifically recognizes eco-responsibility in the lodging and hospitality sector.  A statement regarding the award from Green Key Global noted that the Vail Cascade “is a hotel that exemplifies the highest standards of environmental and social responsibility throughout all areas of operations.  The hotel employs cutting-edge technologies, policies and programs which set an international standard for sustainable hotel operations.”

For more information on Destination Earth, visit www.destinationhotels.com/green-hotels-resorts/.  Green Key Global information is located at www.greenkeyglobal.com. Reservations and more information about Vail Cascade can be found at www.vailcascade.com, or by calling 1-800-420-2424.

Resort Specials:

Summer and autumn in Vail?  You have to see it to believe it, especially with these great rate.  Plus, the longer you stay the more you save and play:

• Stay 1-3 nights, receive 15% off
• Stay 4 nights, receive 20% off
• Stay 5 or more nights, receive 25% off

Book now through November 17, 2011 by calling 1-800-420-2424 and refer to promo code vctaymorew1

Gaylord Hotels Package Benefits Wounded Warrior Project

Gaylord National Resort just outside Washington DC. Guests who stay at any of the Gaylord Hotels this May now have the opportunity to help Wounded Warrior Project honor and empower America’s injured service men and women © 2011 Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com.

Guests who stay at Gaylord Hotels this May now have the opportunity to help Wounded Warrior Project honor and empower America’s injured service men and women.

Wounded Warrior Project^® (WWP) is the featured charity for Gaylord Hotels’ Rooms for Good co-operative marketing and fundraising program for the month of May. The organization will receive 10 percent of the Rooms for Good package rate booked at all four of the brand’s resorts.

“Our goal is to provide unique programs and services to meet the needs of injured service members,” said Wounded Warrior Project Chief Development Officer Adam Silva. “It’s through the help of organizations like Gaylord Hotels and their Rooms for Good campaign that we’re able to continue this important work and support those who have given so much in defense of our country.”

Rooms for Good packages start at $179* per couple and include one-night accommodations and breakfast for two. A discounted package rate of $139* per couple is available for active and retired military.

The Rooms for Good program will feature a different charity each month. In addition to raising money for non-profit organizations, Gaylord Hotels will also raise awareness of the cause through its advertising, public relations and social media platforms.

“Our Rooms for Good program gives guests a chance to get away while giving back to an important cause,” said Amy Atkinson, Gaylord Hotels’ vice president of leisure marketing and public relations. “We are honored to support Wounded Warrior Project as they work to positively impact the lives of those who have sacrificed so much for our country.”

Over 40,000 troops have been physically wounded during the current military conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan. Hundreds of thousands more are estimated to be recovering from invisible wounds of war, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), major depression, and traumatic brain injury (TBI). Whether through caregiver retreats, combat stress programs, career and education services, or adaptive sporting opportunities, WWP empowers warriors with the tools essential to not just survive their injuries but to thrive and achieve personal and professional success.

 *The rate varies per resort and excludes tax, parking and resort fee. More information is available at www.RoomsForGood.com

About Gaylord Hotels®
Owned and operated by Nashville, Tenn.-based Gaylord Entertainment, Gaylord Hotels^® is a collection of four upscale resorts: Gaylord Opryland^® in Nashville, Tenn.; Gaylord Palms^® in Kissimmee, Fla., near Orlando; Gaylord Texan^® on Lake Grapevine near Dallas, Texas, and Gaylord National^® on the Potomac in National Harbor, Md. The brand’s hallmark— “everything in one place”— provides diverse dining options, quality spa and fitness center services, top-notch entertainment, on-site shopping and endless activities—all within each resort. For additional information, visit www.gaylordhotels.com.

About Wounded Warrior Project

Wounded Warrior Project® (WWP) raises awareness and enlists the public’s aid for the needs of injured service members, helps injured servicemen and women aid and assist each other, and provides unique, direct programs and services to meet their needs. WWP is a national, nonpartisan organization headquartered in Jacksonville, FL. To get involved and learn more, visit www.woundedwarriorproject.org.

See also:

Gaylord National Resort turns family trip to Nation’s Capital into true vacation and slideshow

On the Town in Nashville, Music City U.S.A.

Get Insider Access for Exclusive Deals & Discounts to Hit Broadway Shows through Broadway.com

Times Square, New York City © 2011 Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com

Theatergoers can now access group purchasing power for insider deals to top Broadway shows through Broadway.com/Groups.  The leading resource for group theater ticket sales and Broadway experiences, Broadway.com/Groups is offering special group rates for some of the most celebrated Broadway shows this spring through the winter months.

To re-visit a favorite classic, or for those that have yet to see some of Broadway’s most acclaimed musicals, Broadway.com/Groups is offering ticket specials to see the Tony-award winning crooners from Jersey Boys, the unforgettably wild-world of The Lion King, and the pop-musical Mamma Mia!, featuring songs from ABBA, among others.

Current Broadway.com/Groups specials include:

• Book the Early Bird special for The Addams Family with tickets starting as low as $52 at select performances May 10-October 30, paid in full by May 6, 2011 groups of 12 or more.  Additionally, this family-friendly musical will be debuting a Monday night curtain July 11-September 4, 2011.
• For Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday evening performances, Mary Poppins offers groups of 15 or more prices starting at $42 for rear Mezzanine and balcony seats, $52 for mid Mezzanine seats and $62 for Orchestra & Front Mezzanine seats.  Offer is available for shows August 23-November 20, paid 30 days prior to performance date.  In addition, receive one complimentary ticket for the first 20 paid tickets, or three complimentary tickets for 51 tickets purchased (Max. 3).
• Rear Mezzanine seats start at $67, with all other seats starting at $87 for The Lion King.  Offer available for Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday evenings and Sunday matinee performances August 27-November 20.  Group minimum starts at 15 and payment is due 45 days prior to performance.  In addition, receive one complimentary ticket for the first 20 paid tickets, or three complimentary tickets for 51 tickets purchased (Max. 3).
• From September 5-December 18, Orchestra & Front Mezzanine seats start at $76.50 with rear Mezzanine starting at $42 for the scandalously delightful Chicago. Specials are available for groups of 10 or more for any performance, except Saturday evenings.
• Mega-hit musical Jersey Boys offers groups of 15 or more incredible discounts with tickets available for as low as $56 for most performances, select Orchestra seats as low as $62 and $43 for student groups this fall.  This Fall Sale is available for weekday performances September 6-October 30 and must be paid in full by July 31, 2011.
• Sing and dance to ABBA at Mamma Mia! with tickets starting at $57 for rear Mezzanine seats and $75 for Orchestra & Front Mezzanine seats.  Offer available for groups of 15 or more, Monday-Friday evenings and Saturday and Sunday matinees throughout 2011.

These and other shows are also featured on the group sales booking widget for travel buyers to promote and sell the most popular Broadway shows directly on their own website.

Additionally, for any last-minute planners, Broadway.com/Groups recently introduced their “Last Minute Stock” page featuring inventory of some of the hottest Broadway shows only a few days or weeks in advance of the show date.  Visit www.broadway.com/groups/last-minute for current “Last Minute Stock” being offered.  In order to purchase tickets, the buyer must adhere to group minimums as set by each show.  To determine a show’s group minimum, please visit the shows page and see the “Minimum # of Tickets” column.

For more information on show information and to book these exclusive offers, visit www.broadway.com/groups.  Restrictions and black-out dates may apply. Broadway.com/Groups advises to book early to ensure availability for these special offers.