Expect some tough going today if you are flying United to/from/through Chicago O’Hare.  The check-in system is not operating and United is doing manual check in for flights.  You can imagine the mess.  This could also cause delays throughout the United system so patience will be required today.

From United’s website as of 7am PDT:

We are currently experiencing some delays and cancellations due to an airport check-in system issue at Chicago O’Hare International Airport. We advise customers to check in on united.com, confirm the latest information on their flights, and allow extra time at the airport. We apologize for any inconvenience, and we are working to fix the issue as quickly as possible.

The St. Regis Deer Crest Resort

Powder-loving skiers are awaiting the November 1, 2009 debut of St. Regis Deer Crest Resort in Park City, Utah.  Offering ski-in, ski-out access with signature St. Regis “Ski Butler” services, the resort will feature 181 guestrooms with sweeping views of the magnificent Deer Valley.  Salt Lake City airport is 45 minutes away.  Guestroom accommodations feature 40-inch LCD HDTV’s with HD theater sound systems, European linens, high-speed wireless internet access and fireplaces.  Services include 24-hour in room dining, child-care service, nightly turndown and the 14,000 sq. ft. Remede Spa with signature treatments.

While Park City is well-known as an international ski destination, warm-weather activities include hiking, biking, fishing, hot-air balloon rides and events at the Deer Valley summer amphitheater.  Expected to be designated a Virtuoso-preferred hotel, your Stellar Travel vacation advisor will secure complimentary amenities and room upgrades for your reservations.

One of our Oahu insiders offers the following tips to help enhance your Hawaii vacation experience:

Huli Huli Chicken - local style chicken often sold for fund raisers. Check for ads in the local newspaper this summer.  Normally held in street side parking lots. “huli” means to “turn over” as you turn over the chicken on the grill to keep from burning.  Lots of different recipes, but usually marinated in combo of soy sauce, pineapple, ginger, and brown sugar. Broke da mouth!!!

39th Annual Ukulele Festival -July 19th, Kapiolani Park Bandstand in Kapiolani Park 9:30A-1:30P - FREE!! Food booths, ukulele displays,  ukulele bands and soloists. Take a beach mat  or blanket!! No not from the hotel!!!!

3660 On the Rise- I’m a big fan of Alan Wongs in Honolulu for that special occasion, but here’s another excellent choice if you are looking for a great dining experience just 10 minutes from Waikiki. The Ahi Katsu appetizer is famous and the desserts are killer! Save room. Entree prices run  between mid 20s and mid 30s. Russell Siu’s dishes are remarkable. Validated parking in the back.

Miramar at Waikiki- Just announced 3rd night free for balance of the year plus guaranteed connecting rooms ( at no surcharge) and kids eat free this summer. The only hotel in Waikiki to offer this!! Property is looking great plus you have the most convenient location in Waikiki. Some smoking rooms too, tough to find in Waikiki! (be sure to call Stellar Travel for special rates and amenities).

Kailua Beach park-this is a world class beach just 20-30 minutes from Waikiki. Sandy, not a pebble on it..perfect for families with small children. Pretty flat in the summer, but some nice afternoon breezes also make it an excellent windsurfing spot. This is where the locals go!!  Showers and rest rooms also. Go across the street from Miramar to Food Pantry and pack a picnic. Ease into the sun for the first few days..you can get fried in a hurry!!

C. Kim

There are two reasons why we always go back to the Big Island of Hawaii.  Well, there are many reasons, but the top two are the weather and the many golf courses.  As the southern-most island in the Hawaiian chain, the island of Hawaii or “the Big Island” (as it is called by the Hawaiians) offers up the sunniest days, mild tropical breezes and some of the best golf in all of the islands.  This is a review of the highlights from a 7-day vacation that included two types of accommodations:

Aston Kona by the Sea, Kailua-Kona

We enjoy doing the condo experience in Hawaii for the convenience of space, kitchen amenities and relaxation aspects.  Kona by the Sea is right on the ocean with recent renovations and updating. The exterior looks fresh and there is a brand new, much larger pool deck with nice pool furniture.  A beach sand area between the pool and the ocean breakwater wall has beach chairs and some umbrellas.  You can watch the surfers right out from the resort and we saw huge sea turtles resting on the lava rocks.  Accommodations all along this part of Kailua Kona are built on lava, so there are very few beaches but there are spectacular waves crashing on the lava rocks.  These units are spacious and comfortable with large lanais for watching sunsets.  The staff is very friendly and offers up authentic “Ohana” (family warmth and aloha spirit). Oh, and we grilled Big Island Parker Ranch grass-fed beef steaks (look for the PR on the meat label in the grocery store.)

Four Seasons Hualalai

Most discerning Hawaii travelers consider this the number one resort in all of Hawaii and we agree. We enjoyed an ocean view lower level room (with the fabulous outdoor shower) at the Kings Pool area.  Our room location was very private and peaceful with a view out toward the ocean waves.  Four Seasons top quality furnishings were found throughout and the king bed was extremely comfortable and plush.  They have re-done the Sea Shell Pool area and added more private cabanas (rustic “hales”) by taking out some of the landscaping.  It is a nice area for families with a shallow sand pool for very young children.  The service at the large lap pool was outstanding: ice water constantly refilled, comfortable lounge chairs and attentive food/beverage service.  We enjoyed a fantastic round of golf on the Hualalai course and, as one of the best courses in Hawaii; it hosts the annual PGA Senior Tour Mastercard Tournament.  The black lava, ocean views and finishing holes combine for that perfect golf experience.  $250 greens fees (and yes, it was worth every penny for my memorable round and photos of the spectacular views).

Your Stellar Travel vacation advisor will help you select Hawaii accommodations and activities that match your interests and your budget.  Hawaii is offering significant price reductions and free night incentives for 2009 travel dates.

Susan Bluhm, Co - President, Golf Travel Specialist

Working with travel agents demystified

The top three reasons people call travel agencies today:  (1) they want advice, (2) they don’t have time to plan their own travel and like the personal attention, and (3) they are confused by too many online options.

How does someone become a travel agency customer? Here are some FAQ’s and answers:

1.        If I use a travel agent, doesn’t it cost more? Usually, it costs less because we will uncover options you didn’t consider or arrange a valuable complimentary upgrade.  Sometimes we charge a ticketing fee or a planning fee to compensate us for the work we do.   There is no additional fee to arrange cruises, most tours and vacation packages and, you will get more by booking through us.

2.       Why should I purchase from a travel agency? We do things you can’t do yourself. Our job is to help you choose the best trip for your budget and interests.  With our experience and connections, we will save time, exceed your expectations, surprise you with added benefits and make you a happy, lifelong customer.

3.       I like doing my own research online, so why is your knowledge and advice worthwhile? The simple answer:  experience.  We’ve been in business for over 25 years serving thousands of customers to every worldwide destination.  If your travel advisor hasn’t been there, someone else has been there, or has sent customers there.  The deep experience of our friendly travel advisors is more valuable than websites or search engines.

4.       How do I get started planning a trip with you? We make it easy to work with us.  Send an email to info@stellartravel.com and you’ll receive a prompt reply.  Or, call us Monday-Friday 8:00 am - 5:00 pm at 425.747.1900 to speak with a helpful travel consultant.   Our promise is to deliver a great customer experience.

Less than two years after opening, The Grand Del Mar Resort has earned a spot on the list of the World’s Best Places to Stay. With arched doorways, verandas overlooking the beautiful golf course and luxurious but comfortable surroundings, the resort spared no expense to create a memorable vacation experience for its guests.

I was fortunate to be invited for a travel industry golf event last weekend at The Grand Del Mar, so I thoroughly inspected some of the 249 rooms (including the 3-bedroom villas), the meeting space, spa, six restaurants, four swimming pools, wedding chapel and the golf facilties.

A local San Diego developer spent $300 million to create a lavish, European-style resort in the middle of the pristine Los Penasquitos canyon preserve about 20 minutes north of the San Diego airport.  Crown jewel is the five diamond “Addison” contemporary French restaurant with its 2,500 bottle wine room and exquisite service for only 80 guests.  (Even if you don’t dine at Addison, I recommend a cocktail on the restaurant’s bar terrace overlooking the 18^th hole).

And the golf was fantastic.  The Tom Fazio-designed 18 hole course was originally built in 1999 as the Meadows Del Mar.  Winding up and down the scenic valleys of the Los Penasquitos preserve with varying elevation and championship quality, only private members and resort guests may play here. Forecaddies take the place of GPS, providing helpful yardages, strategy and lost ball assistance.  Our caddie Joe shared high-fives and genuine delight when our putts rolled in the cup after his professional advice.  The teaching facility and staff are top-notch under the direction of Shawn Cox, PGA Professional and former UW Husky football Hall-of-Famer.   I thoroughly enjoyed my swing lessons with Shawn and Robert Gensler, Head Golf Professional, and, after two days of instruction, came away with a sense of real improvement.

Nearby activities include miles of beaches, art galleries, shopping and cultural activities.  The resort provides transportation to these areas for its guests but I didn’t want to leave the resort.   Various packages are available, some including golf or spa.  In addition, Stellar Travel guests at The Grand Del Mar  will receive complimentary daily breakfast for two in their guestroom or at one of the resort’s dining options;  a $50 or $100 resort credit per stay and complimentary upgrade at time of booking based on availability.

Susan Bluhm/ Stellar Travel Co-President, Golf Travel Specialist - June 17, 2009

Our travel insurance provider, TRAVELEX, has introduced Flight Insure Plus for those desiring only flight accident protection.  This is a great, affordable product for frequent corporate travelers.

Flight Insure Plus
		Offers a Flight Only Plan for affordable flight accident protection or a Package Plan for continued coverage during your trip.

Why Choose Flight Insure Plus?
Flight Insure Plus offers a Flight Only plan with multiple levels of coverage for accidental death and dismemberment while flying, or a Package Plan including the Flight Only coverage plus additional protection for medical emergencies, evacuations, baggage and more.

Plans for Annual Travel and Single Trips
Cover all your travel for the year with the Annual Plan or one trip with the Single Trip Plan. The level of Flight Accident protection chosen determines the plan rate, not the traveler’s age or trip cost.

Low Cost
Affordable coverage for flight accident insurance - starting at just $17!

Travel Assistance & Concierge Services
Call prior to departure or during travel and speak with a concierge services agent. Our concierge services would be happy to help you locate a restaurant, book a tee-time or offer destination advice. In addition, access emergency assistance 24 hours a day from virtually anywhere in the world - with just one toll-free call. Click to learn more about Travelex Travel Assistance.

Package Plan Benefits

Package Plan Rates

Flight Only Plan Benefit and Rates

Contact your Stellar Travel Advisor to purchase Flight Insure Plus.

Mandarin Oriental, Prague: Special rates starting at 285 euros per night.  Book by July 31st for travel September 1 - October 31st 2009.  Includes the following amenities for Stellar Travel clients:

• Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
• Daily buffet breakfast for up to two in-room guests, in Restaurant Essensia
• A 50 EUR credit valid for: Essensia Restaurant, Barego Bar, Minibar, Spa or Spa products
• A box of Belgian chocolates in room on arrival
• 4PM late check-out, subject to availability
• 20% discount on any spa treatment (Monday - Thursday)

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Four Seasons Pacific Northwest Offers:

Four Seasons Hotel Seattle: Receive a complimentary third night with every two consecutive paid nights.  Rates starting at $365 per room, per night.

Four Seasons Hotel Vancouver: Receive a complimentary third night with every two consecutive paid nights.  Rates starting at $295 Canadian per room, per night.

Four Seasons Resort Whistler: Receive a complimentary third night with every two consecutive paid nights.  Rates starting at $295 Canadian per room, per night.

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Regina Hotel Baglioni, Rome:  Extensive “refined art deco style” renovation just completed.

The magnificent hall of this hotel bears testament to Queen Margherita of Savoy’s residence here in the 1930’s. She was so impressed, she sanctioned the Royal title by which it is presently known-Regina Hotel Baglioni. Today, you’ll still enjoy the exceptional level of service, grand decor and the sumptuous dining that delighted her Majesty. Ask for an eighth floor suite; the view is fantastic.

Rates start at 260 euros per night.  Stellar Travel clients receive the following amenities:

For Classic-Deluxe Room bookings:

• Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability to Deluxe Room category only
• Daily American Buffet Breakfast for up to two in-room guests
• 1 welcome cocktail for 2 during stay at our Brunello Lounge & Restaurant
• Late check-out, upon availability
• 10% discount on a la carte menu (beverages excluded) in our Brunello Lounge & Restaurant.  Not cumulative with any special promotion or offer.

Junior - Executive Suites receive all the above, plus:

• Choice of OW transfer to or from the airport (Fiumicino or Ciampino) OR a 50 minute massage (Swedish or Deep Tissue)Presidential - Panoramic Suites receive all the above, plus
• One-way transfer to or from the airport (Fiumicino or Ciampino)
• 50 minute massage (Swedish or Deep Tissue)

Welcome to ENRICHING PURSUITS, the June Virtuoso® Travel Catalog!

To view, simply click the catalog image or download here.

As you flip through the pages of this unique catalog you will find a collection of distinctly enriching experiences that offer the chance to give back to the culture, environment or nature, making a lasting impact on our world. These are the trips that ignite your passions and feed your curiosity for truly memorable experiences.

Take advantage of today’s tremendous travel deals. As your Virtuoso travel advisor we are here to guide you through the terrific options available. Call us today for details.

Sheryl recently returned from Disneyland and offers a few hints to make your first trip or returning trip to Disneyland even more enjoyable.

Before you go: Let Sheryl reserve your package with airline tickets, a rental car or transfers, accommodations, Disneyland Park Hopper Tickets and dining reservations.  Yes - Disneyland dining is an important component of making your trip more enjoyable. She will handle all your dining requirements so you can dine with the Disney Characters or have a quiet meal inside the Pirates of the Caribbean.

Have you ever wondered how to make best use of your Disney FASTPASS? Sheryl will give you all the insider tips on how to get the most of your FASTPASS service. You will enjoy the shorter lines and ability to ride the main attractions faster than most park attendees.

Where is the best place to stay and how do you avoid the park entry lines? Sheryl will help you with suggestions on a Private Park entry and how to make the most of your time in Disneyland and surrounding attractions.

Height requirements? Have you ever wondered if your child will be tall enough to ride Big Thunder Mountain Railroad or the Matterhorn Bobsleds?

What if you want to upgrade your admissions ticket after you arrive at the park to every day and still keep your Park Hopper status? Sheryl will help you with that too!

Pack just a little lighter and you can rent strollers, wheelchairs and electric carts right inside the Disneyland gate.

Would you like a private escorted tour of Disneyland?  Sheryl can make that happen for you.

Give Sheryl a call at 800.445.3265 and she can help you customize a Disney vacation that’s right for you, your family and your budget. Email works too, if you prefer: sheryl@stellartravel.com

Sheryl Graddon is a 20 year industry veteran and a graduate of the College of Disney Knowledge and an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner. Sheryl has also been on over 70 cruises, she know’s her stuff!