In my last post I highlighted a top ten list of travel applications for the iPhone. This time I wanted to highlight an additional application (for smartphones, iPhones, and the Web) that might be pretty handy for frequent airline travelers.
Is it stealing when the hotel leaves you a nice fluffy robe and you take it home with you? Not if they charge you for the missing robe on your bill. These days, hotels are putting all sorts of extra amenities in their rooms, from cool coffee makers to slippers to robes. If you've ever wondered what's fair game to take with you when you leave, check out this About.com video that details what you can (and can't) take from your hotel room.
What travel application do you have loaded on your smartphone or iPhone? There are a few that I use frequently while traveling, including Kayak (great for getting current hotel prices and availability), TripAdvisor (great for hotel reviews), and TripIt (great for keeping track of itineraries).
When it comes to Western Massachusetts, there are a number of high-end resorts and bed and breakfasts aimed at vacationers and couples wanting to get away. There are also a number of low-end motels, catering to travelers looking for an inexpensive place to stay the night. But what's been missing for the business traveler has been a solid, mid-range hotel that's nice. That's where the Hampton Inn and Suites in Lenox comes in
Are business travelers all the same? Probably not. But some interesting new research from Homewood Suites does reveal some of the similar traits and habits of business travelers. (Of course, as Homewood Suites is an extended stay hotel brand focused on both business travelers staying for a few days or traveling families looking for extra space, some of these findings may not be surprising--but they are interesting).
The Hilton Garden Inn Portsmouth is a relatively new hotel in downtown Portsmouth, New Hampshire, right in the middle of all the action.
Although the Hilton Garden Inn is basically a standard business hotel, it has an upscale, trendy design and feel that fits in nicely with the bohemian and artsy city of Portsmouth. Read my full review of the Hilton Garden Inn in Portsmouth New Hampshire. (photo copyright David A. Kelly)
It's scary, but one of the stories I've heard a lot recently is from travelers coming home from international trips to HUGE cell phone bills. If you're used to using your cell phone all the time, or pulling out your iPhone to consult Google Maps, or downloading email or stock information while on the road, it pays to think twice.
Lots of people visit California's Napa Valley for the wineries, scenery, and vacation options. But a good deal of business travelers also find their way to Napa Valley to either conduct business or attend a business meeting or retreat. Guest Author Alice Lesch Kelly filed this review of the The Marriott Napa Valley Hotel & Spa in Napa, California. While the Marriott Napa Valley has lots (20,000 square feet) of event space for corporate meetings, the real draw is the wine country that surrounds the hotel.
Sometimes what you need on a business trip is a full-service, standard business hotel. The Hyatt Regency Houston is one such hotel. It's in the middle of downtown Houston, near the convention center and the Theater District. The hotel is also connected to a wide variety of shops, restaurants, and other buildings via the city's underground tunnel system. Overall, the hotel was what you'd expect: a solid, large business hotel. Good service, decent (but not overwhelming) rooms, and a good lobby bar. Read my full review of the Hyatt Regency Houston for more information or if you're planning on taking a trip to Houston.
I love to use airport lounges when I can. They're quiet, they're peaceful, they're a great break from the hassle of sitting in the airport. Now, if you're an American Express Platinum Card or Centurion member, you now have VIP access to US Airways Clubs in airports across the country. It doesn't even matter what airline you're flying on. Show them your Amex card, and kick back, relax, and enjoy the free perks like complimentary Wi-F, beverages, snacks, newspapers, and more.
