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Backyard Travel, Asia's most innovative travel company, has today released details of a special promotion for their 'Road Less Travelled: Cambodia's South' tour. The bespoke tour is currently available with a 10% discount when the trip is taken before April 30, 2013, and whisks travelers away explore Cambodia's freshest beach destinations - the sleepy towns of Kep, Sihanoukville and Koh Kong, as well as the highlights of Siem Reap, Angkor and Phnom Penh. Staying for two nights in the bustling capital, travelers will be able to take a Cambodian cooking class to learn how to prepare some tasty regional dishes, soak up the atmosphere and shop for some treasures in the lively local markets, as well as observe the colonial-era charm of the vibrant city. While travelers are free to do as little or much as they like, Backyard Travel's insider tour also provides a unique opportunity to take a guided boat trip through the mangrove forests down the Prek Toeuk Sap River, where they might be lucky enough to spot a rare freshwater Irrawaddy dolphin. The ride comes to rest in the Ream National Park, a 210-sq-km area of flora and fauna where travelers will be able to visit Koh Sampuch, an undeveloped, isolated beach, for a secluded swim. Read more: http://www.sfgate.com/business/prweb/article/Backyard-Travel-Announce-Special-Offer-for-4206842.php#ixzz2IQ0vKGh0

If your passport is stolen, DS-64 application form is used for passport cancellation and you will need to complete DS-11 form to apply for a new passport. The DS-11 is a two page form with a space for your photo and signature on the first page. When you complete this application form for a stolen passport replacement, you will need to include all the information with required documents. Follow our help guide and learn how to report your stolen passport and get a new one in as little as 24 hours.

If your passport is stolen, DS-64 application form is used for passport cancellation and you will need to complete DS-11 form to apply for a new passport. The DS-11 is a two page form with a space for your photo and signature on the first page. When you complete this application form for a stolen passport replacement, you will need to include all the information with required documents. Follow our help guide and learn how to report your stolen passport and get a new one in as little as 24 hours.

Did you know that your child also need a passport to travel internationally with you? Don't forget your child's passport when you apply for yours. If your kid is 15 or younger, then you need to have a minor US passport, which is valid for 5 years. The kids at 16 can apply for adult US passport. The procedure to get a child US passport is the same whether or not the child has previously been issued a passport. Check out the step by step guide that would help you understand the process and how you can expedite a child US passport.

Did you know that your child also need a passport to travel internationally with you? Don't forget your child's passport when you apply for yours. If your kid is 15 or younger, then you need to have a minor US passport, which is valid for 5 years. The kids at 16 can apply for adult US passport. The procedure to get a child US passport is the same whether or not the child has previously been issued a passport. Check out the step by step guide that would help you understand the process and how you can expedite a child US passport.

Sitting on a plane and wait for its landing is a kind of a boring task for everyone, but if you grab a good seat on a plane then most of your time will be enjoyable and less boring. Find out how one can find a good and luxury seats on a plane.

Stonehill CRE, the real estate arm of Stonehill, has finalized a $52 million senior loan agreement with Starpoint Properties to fund the construction of Lotus Point Apartments, a 245-unit multifamily development in Mesa, Arizona, within the Phoenix Metropolitan Statistical Area. The construction of this four-story building is scheduled for completion in the first quarter of 2025, Stonehill said in a statement. "This investment mirrors our sought-after strategy - a quality property with an experienced sponsor in a growing market," said Taylor Pike, senior vice president at Stonehill CRE. "Phoenix stands as a strong job growth market due to diverse employment opportunities. Single-family home development has not kept pace, and with rising mortgage rates, well-located multifamily projects will remain in high demand." This 6-acre site, adjacent to a retail center and within walking distance of the metro light rail, will provide studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom units, along with amenities such as a fitness center, clubhouse, co-working area, pool, and parking options, Stonehill said.

THE CITY OF Los Angeles is not doing enough to regulate short-term rental properties, according to AAHOA and a report from local advocacy group Better Neighbors LA. Both groups say the city should do more to enforce its existing 2019 ordinance on home sharing apps such as Airbnb and Vrbo. Los Angeles' ordinance requires short-term rentals to register and sets other regulations on home sharing apps. However, the Better Neighbors report found that the city's enforcement of the ordinance has been dropping since 2022, evidenced by a 54 percent decrease in warning letters, an 85 percent decrease in fines and a 25 percent increase in non-compliant listings. "Every year we put out an annual report that gives a snapshot of how enforcement is going in the city of Los Angeles, how many short-term rentals exist, and how that's changed from the prior year. This year, we've found that non-compliance is up," Allison Kriste, a representative of Better Neighbors Los Angeles, said in an interview with the Santa Monica Mirror newspaper. "We found a high rate of non-compliance across the boards in the city of Los Angeles. In addition, we've also found that enforcement activity is down. We're identifying more non-compliant listings, as compared to last year. The city is issuing fewer warning letters, they're issuing fewer fines. They're not doing a whole lot."

STONEHILL PACE, THE Property Assessed Clean Energy financing division of Stonehill, has provided $16.3 million in its first commercial property assessed clean energy (C-PACE) financing in Washington, a statement said. The loan is for the Cornus House, a new 199-unit multifamily project with 1,233 square feet of retail development in Tacoma, Washington. The C-PACE financing is over a 30-year term and will fund lighting, covered process, seismic and qualifying soft costs, according to Stonehill PACE. The project development is expected to start before the year end and is scheduled to be finished by Nov. 1, 2024. "For eligible projects, C-PACE financing remains one of the more attractive venues to get a project over the finish line," said Jared Schlosser, Stonehill's senior vice president and head of Stonehill PACE. "The Cornus House is a great project in a strong market led by a savvy ownership group with 30-plus years of commercial real estate experience and a portfolio of more than 800 apartments. This C-PACE financing is the final piece to complete the financing puzzle."

ATLANTA-BASED EV Hotels, a new technology-centric hotel brand founded by Ken Patel, has partnered with Spanish firm CLERHP to construct a luxury resort in the new Larimar City & Resort project in Punta Cana, the Dominican Republic. The 400-room hotel will be built on an area of nearly eight acres, the company said in a statement. Larimar City & Resort will be on the Promenade on the Farrallón de Verón, which has a view of Punta Cana, said Leonardo Padron Hermes, CEO of Blacklions International Group, a company associated with CLERHP in the development of real estate projects in the Dominican Republic. The area includes restaurants, clubs, shops and an 18-hole golf course. "After many years of working behind the scenes to develop a hotel brand that both innovates and revolutionized the industry, it is truly rewarding to now see EV make an impact across the globe. And believe me, we are just getting started," Patel said. "Larimar City & Resort will be one of the best tourist attractions around the globe and our team at EV is excited to be part of this Smart-City. Growth doesn't come with a single action. It is the consequence of persistence, courage, and hard work. What we are accomplishing here is to create an experience that brings hospitality back and gives it life again. Innovation is a team sport."

APPROXIMATELY 71 PERCENT of travelers seek a separate vacation to unwind after family time, according to a recent survey by IHG Hotels & Resorts. The survey found that many respondents prefer to avoid staying with family during their trips as well. Among respondents avoiding stays with friends and relatives, 55 percent expressed a preference for hotels. These travelers gravitate towards simple relaxation activities, with 60 percent opting for a nap, 46 percent preferring a jacuzzi and 42 percent considering a spa day. "The holidays often go hand-in-hand with traveling to see loved ones, but as much as we enjoy visiting friends and family, it can leave us feeling drained," said Connor Smith, IHG's vice president of masterbrand strategy. "When that happens, people want to relax and be taken care of, enjoy a free breakfast from Holiday Inn Express, or have a glass of wine at Kimpton's social hour without worrying about cleaning their room in the morning."

IT'S BEEN A tough year for women in the hospitality industry, but progress has been made as more female executives took leadership roles, according to an annual report from the Castell Project, a nonprofit focused on promoting women in the industry. The next challenge, according to the project, is getting more women in hospitality education programs. Castell Project founder and chairwoman Peggy Berg released the 2022 Women in Hospitality Industry Leadership report during the Americas Lodging Investment Summit in Los Angeles earlier this week. During the conference, Berg received the ISHC Pioneer Award for her work in the industry, and she told a story during her acceptance speech that encapsulates where women are coming from in the industry. When she was in college, Berg said, the Equal Employment Opportunity Act lifted the restrictions on women working. So, she walked into a large firm looking for a job. "The partner in charge of the office, Jerry, he took one look at me and said 'Well, this will never work.' And then because of the EEOA, he said, 'I will give you a job if you promise not to get pregnant for two years,'" Berg said. "Jerry thought this was impossible. I thought Jerry didn't understand the law. Mostly I thought, if that's the barrier to success, the best vertical I have to cross, I can run this company. And a few years later, 140 men found themselves with a female partner."

BLACK HISTORY MONTH is a time to think about unity in general and hoteliers of all races acknowledged that this year. AAHOA observed the month, as did others in the industry through actions and testimonials. A way to engage the local community California hotelier and philanthropist Sunil "Sunny" Tolani in a recent article discussed the importance of the month to him. Tolani is CEO of the Prince Organization in Anaheim, California, and in an interview with New York Wire magazine, he discussed diversity and his company's participation in the Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service in January. The event supports a sense of family among his employees, Tolani said. "Employees make time to volunteer and the MLK Day of Service is a great way we engage with our local community while honoring the legacy of Dr. King," Tolani said. "Whether we plan on cleaning up a public space, mentoring and providing internships to young people, mentoring our staff, inviting the local students to tour the back of house hotel operations, what they do makes a world of difference. Our entire organization felt a sense of pride at what we were able to achieve." Tolani said supporting minority rights also builds meaningful relationships within the communities in which they operate and "taps the passions of millions of guests."

WHITESTONE CAPITAL RECENTLY partnered with PJD Capital to purchase the 152-room Holiday Inn East Mountain in Wilkes Barre, Pennsylvania, marking the first joint venture between the two real estate companies. Whitestone Capital, a division of Whitestone Companies, is led by CEO Jay Batra, while PJD Capital is headed by CEO Prakash Datwani. The Holiday Inn East Mountain features 152 guestrooms and more than 6,000 square feet of event space, the companies said in a joint statement. "We are excited about our new partnership with PJD Capital to reposition this property into a product the Wilkes Barre community has been craving," said Batra. "We expect the transformation to happen in two phases, with the first phase starting later this year. The property will be converted to a very select class of DoubleTree Hotels. A DoubleTree in name, driven by the power of Hilton, but not a typical DoubleTree. This property will feel more like a soft brand with design centered around a community-focused, light resort feel."

HE WORLD TRAVEL & Tourism Council's Hotel Sustainability Basics, a global initiative assisting hoteliers in improving their sustainability ratings, recently surpassed 1,700 verified hotels across 70 countries worldwide. Hotel groups from destinations such as France, China, Mexico, India, Germany, South Africa, Philippines and Norway joined the initiative, WTTC said in a statement. During its first year, Hotel Sustainability Basics gained endorsements from destinations worldwide, including the Caribbean, Mauritius, Colombia, UAE, Azerbaijan, Mexico, and Ecuador, the statement said. Hotel brands, including Jin Jiang, Louvre Hotel Group, Choice Hotels and Radisson Hotel Group, have adopted Basics. Other major brands joining the initiative include Intrepid, British Airways Holidays, HBX Group, WebBeds and Abercrombie & Kent. "Our goal is to have a globally recognised trademark that shows customers at a glance, that a hotel is supporting the planet by saving energy, cutting plastics, protecting nature, and supporting their local community," said Julia Simpson, WTTC's president and CEO. "It is a win win. We launched the scheme only a year ago and the uptake has been incredible. 70 countries have signed up with over 1700 properties verified with a long waiting list. It will bring lasting change."

Los Angeles Airport (LAX) stands at the confluence of urban dynamism and coastal serenity, epitomizing the fusion of bustling city life with the calm Pacific coast. Amidst the comings and goings of travelers in the City of Angels, take a moment to delve into the charm of nearby attractions. Whether your inclination is toward unwinding, seeking thrills, or simply capturing a final glimpse of L.A.'s iconic landmarks, these destinations promise an immersive experience in this vibrant metropolis. From the picturesque shores to culturally rich enclaves, the vicinity of LAX beckons with a diverse range of activities. Bask in the golden sunsets on pristine beaches, or delve into the thriving arts scene at nearby galleries and theaters. Savor the culinary delights from a myriad of cuisines, reflecting the city's rich cultural tapestry. Whether it's a stroll along the shoreline or a deep dive into the pulsating heart of the city's nightlife, there's something to suit every taste. Allow us to be your guide through this mosaic of experiences, seamlessly blending relaxation, adventure, and cultural exploration. As you prepare for your departure or arrival, seize the opportunity to immerse yourself in the essence of Los Angeles. Let the vibrant energy of the city and the soothing rhythm of the coast intertwine, creating memories that linger long after you leave. Your journey near LAX promises to be a captivating chapter in the vibrant narrative of Los Angeles.

The Best Western Plus Heritage Rail Inn & Suites is now open in York, Pennsylvania. The hotel, owned by Sagar Shah and his family, recently completed a $3 million renovation. It features 73 rooms and 55 suites, along with amenities such as retro games, a fitness center, a yoga and wellness room, a business center and a meeting room, Best Western said in a statement. "Following a top-to-bottom renovation, we are excited to welcome guests to our reimagined hotel," said Shah. "The redesigned property pays homage to the rich history of York, Pennsylvania, while also providing the modern comforts and conveniences for which the Best Western brand is known." The property is situated near the Colonial Courthouse, Appell Center for the Performing Arts, and York County Historical Center, the statement added, noting that a new lobby bar, The Heritage Rail Tavern, will open soon.

PEACHTREE GROUP, A commercial real estate investment firm with a $6.4 billion portfolio, has closed its third hotel property structured as a Delaware Statutory Trust with the acquisition of the 98-key Hilton Garden Inn in Jackson, Tennessee. The acquisition provides 1031 exchange investors the chance to reinvest proceeds from real estate sales, enjoying tax deferral benefits and maintaining a strong real estate allocation, Peachtree said in a statement. "The hotel's strategic location near healthcare and manufacturing jobs, including Ford's planned $5.6-billion Blue Oval City, along with a diverse collection of entertainment and retail destinations, establishes it as a valuable addition to our expanding portfolio of DST properties," said Tim Witt, Peachtree's president for 1031 Exchange/DST Products. Peachtree launched its DST program in August 2022 and is a top-15 sponsor in the securitized 1031 exchange marketplace, according to Mountain Dell Consulting's year-end market equity update.

TOURISTS ARE PROJECTED to maintain or increase their travel spending in 2024 compared to the previous year, according to American Express Travel's "2024 Global Travel Trends Report". Approximately 84 percent of respondents from countries including the U.S., Australia, Canada, India, Japan, Mexico, and the U.K. anticipate spending the same or more, with 77 percent prioritizing the quality of their travel experience over cost considerations. "Travelers are focused on creating the right itineraries and building memories, whether that means booking a trip to see a favorite sports team compete or taking a once-in-a-lifetime expedition cruise," said Audrey Hendley, American Express Travel's president. "Our 'Global Travel Trends Report' sheds light on what is driving global travel bookings and provides inspiration for where to go next." About 65 percent of respondents express greater interest in embarking on a major trip in 2024 compared to previous years, the report said. Additionally, 72 percent prefer saving money for a major trip over spending it on social outings with friends. More than half of respondents intend to save for a major trip over a span of six months to two years.

Some people have a habit of taking up a cruise vacation at least once in a year but the beginners wonder either to take up a major cruise firm or a private yacht.

Some people have a habit of taking up a cruise vacation at least once in a year but the beginners wonder either to take up a major cruise firm or a private yacht.

New rules go in effect, enforcing travelers to show passports at San Ysidro border crossing. Pedestrian travelers entering Mexico at the San Ysidro/Puerta Este crossing must show a valid passport and fill out an entry form. Travelers who will remain in Mexico for more than one week will also need to pay 326 pesos (approximately $20) for a Tourist Card valid for 180 days. Although the majority of travelers entering Mexico by land continue to be able to cross the border without a passport, it is very important to remember that a passport is required to re-enter the United States. Read the article to get a clearer insight of implementation of the new rules at the Mexican border.

New rules go in effect, enforcing travelers to show passports at San Ysidro border crossing. Pedestrian travelers entering Mexico at the San Ysidro/Puerta Este crossing must show a valid passport and fill out an entry form. Travelers who will remain in Mexico for more than one week will also need to pay 326 pesos (approximately $20) for a Tourist Card valid for 180 days. Although the majority of travelers entering Mexico by land continue to be able to cross the border without a passport, it is very important to remember that a passport is required to re-enter the United States. Read the article to get a clearer insight of implementation of the new rules at the Mexican border.