U.S. agrees on 12-month Chinese visa validity
In an effort to facilitate travel between the United States and China, the two countries have agreed to a reciprocal visa arrangement with both sides offering 12-month multiple-entry business and tourist visas. The U.S. Embassy in Beijing and the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs exchanged diplomatic notes on this agreement in December 2004. The decision became effective from January 15. The previous maximum validity for U.S. visas issued for these purposes was six months and for multiple entries, according to the US Department of State. Click Here to continue.

Most Passengers Do Not Take Advantage of Express Check-In
Although checking in for a flight at the airline's main counter takes significantly longer than curbside service or self-service kiosks, less than one-quarter of passengers take advantage of either of these express check-in options, according to the J.D. Power and Associates 2004 Global Airport Satisfaction Index Study released yesterday. Click Here to continue.

PEOPLE ARE TALKING ABOUT A & I TRAVEL

(Message to Sue Pomeroy at A & I Travel from Shirley Backers of Buckman Laboratories.)

Hi Sue,

I wanted to share with you and please pass this on to the boss of A&I that you are an awesome Travel Agent. You do not let the ball drop, you stick with the customer until the job is done. We were at our ends in Phoenix on last the Wednesday night before Christmas and were told by America West that we could not get out until Christmas. We then called A&I's 800 number and was told that we could only purchase first class tickets, which we did. Then, a wonderful thought came to my mind to call you and you did wonders and we ended up getting regular seats at a much lower cost. Then because of our status with Northwest, we still got bumped up to first class. 

Sue, we are home at a lower expense because of you. Thanks so much for your professionalism and your expertise. It makes all the difference in the world.

You have a blessed New Year.
Shirley

            
Send your exceptional service experiences to ashley@aitvl.com we would love to hear from you.

\\

NorthWest  WorldPerk Changes

Beginning January 1^st, 2005 Northwest changes to elite status earnings

• Northwest will allow most fares to count towards earning status with segments

• Exceptions include Q I S W T X L on Continental and all Delta flights

• Currently only the priciest unrestricted fares are counted as elite qualifying segments

• Elite qualifying miles remain unchanged

Click Here to continue.

U.S. CONGRESS Extends Legal Passenger Ticket Protection
The U.S. Congress  approved an extension of a law that requires U.S. airlines to honor passenger tickets issued by airlines that cease operations, assuming space is available and routes overlap. Fees charged are limited to U.S. $50 round-trip and passengers have 60 days to arrange for alternate transportation after the carrier that issued their tickets ceases operation.

Although, in practice, carriers have typically honored the tickets of defunct competitors for many years, this legal provision is the only formal protection available to travelers (a safety net lacking in most areas of the world). The law is opposed by many airlines under the theory that it allows weak carriers to continue selling tickets they are not able to honor.

The Plaza New York Is Closing
The Plaza New York will close permanently on 4/30/05. The property will be undergoing an extensive renovation for approximately 1 1/2 - 2 years and will re-open as residential and a partial hotel.

Click Here to Check airport delays, get hourly departure/arrival forecasts and more!
 

Meetings & Incentives are time-consuming and require endless attention to detail- from site selection to contract negotiations to logistics. One small oversight can sabotage the success of your event.

From Conception to Realization, our professionals will ensure your event makes a lasting positive impression.

For your complimentary consultation please contact:
Karen Young, CTC
Meetings and Incentives Manager
Impressions Corporate Meetings & Incentives (a division of A & I Travel)
901-291-1440 or 800-467-1182
karen@aitvl.com

F

Welcome to Amelia Island Resort

This is an amazing place to experience and it is a must see on your travel check-list.
 

Valid through February 26, 2005
The Perfect Stress Reliever!
Experience their Renowned Spa and Championship Golf* All in One Package!
Package entitles each registered guest to:
One 50 minute spa treatment per night	OR	One round of golf on Oak Marsh or Ocean Links* per night (including cart, bag storage, practice balls and yardage book)
All service fees are included. (Watsu Treatment and Golf Play on Long Point are excluded.)

Rates Per Room or Villa Per Night**

Accommodations

Resort View

Ocean  View

	From	To	From	To
Hotel Room	$327	$357	$377	$417
One Bdrm Villa	$367	$407	$397	$437
Two Bdrm Villa	$626	$686	$676	$866
Three Bdrm Villa	$895	$935	$955	$1185

MANY OTHER PACKAGES TO CHOOSE FROM!

Call your A & I Travel leisure specialists to get all the details and make your reservations!
Joan, Joye, Lourdes or Rhonda
@
901-291-1400 or 1-800-467-1182
vacation@aitvl.com

A & I Travel Service, Inc.
5124 Poplar Avenue
Suite 101
Memphis, TN  38117

www.aitvl.com