Compiled by JOAN SCALES
Hike in number of weapons seized
Just when we were feeling safe about flying the Transport Safety Administration in the US issued 2012 figures for firearms confiscation – 1,500, up from 1,300 in 2011. The record haul was even scarier as 85 per cent of weapons were loaded and also included stun guns, grenades and rocket launchers. Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson airport was first with over 100 guns confiscated, followed by Dallas/Fort Worth and Phoenix.
Blackstone plans for Burlington
Now that the announcement has been made that the Morrison Hotel is to become the first franchised DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel in Ireland, what happens the Burlington? New owners of the Burlo are Blackstone Group, owners of the Hilton brands. It had been suggested in the industry that the Burlington would become a DoubleTree by Hilton.
Other Hilton brands are Conrad, Waldorf Astoria and Hampton Inns. It is unlikely the Blackstone Group will upgrade the Burlington to five star as there are enough five-star hotels in Dublin, and Hampton Inn is unlikely too as the brand is usually for limited service properties. It is more likely the Burlington will continue as is but may incorporate the Hilton legacy, to capitalise on the Hilton HHonors guest programme.
Boutique brand package breaks from the norm
Most road warriors will be familiar with that airport-to-hotel-to-airport feeling; it’s like you have never left a homogenous environment.
Indigo Hotels, the boutique brand of Intercontinental Hotels, is hoping to change that with its new package, It’s Not All Business.
The offer includes complimentary breakfast, signature drinks, craft beers, fresh-made breads, artisan cheeses, great bars and restaurants that serve locally sourced food and seasonal menus.
The Indigo package includes 1,000 Priority Club bonus points. There are Indigo Hotels in the United States, Mexico, Europe and Asia.