Bike sharing comes to NYC ... Hidden gems of Italy ... Jaunt.ca deal of the day

I'm not sure I'd try it on Sixth Ave. in rush hour, but it's great to see that New York City is joining the crowd of cities with bike-sharing options.

City officials say the largest bike-sharing system in the U.S. will start sometime this month, with 6,000 bikes at 330 stations in Manhattan and parts of Brooklyn. That's for now. Ultimately, they plan on 10,000 bikes at 600 docking spots in Manhattan, booming Brooklyn and on-the-rise Queens.

The program is called Citi Bike after a $41 million sponsorship from Citibank, plus another $6.5 million from MasterCard.

AP reports that thousands of folks already have signed up as Citi Bike founding members, forking over $95 as an annual fee for unlimited rides of 45 minutes. Which sounds like a helluva deal to me.

AP quotes a U.S. bike expert as saying there are a whopping 534 bike-sharing systems in the world. That includes Toronto's seemingly trouble Bixi bike program, which I utilized today to get from the Thompson Hotel at Wellington and Bathurst to 1 Yonge St. in a little over 10 minutes.

HIDDEN GEMS OF ITALY

Cnn.com/travel has a good item today on some of lesser-known great spots of Italy. Among them are some spots we've featured in the Star or that I'm aware of, including Ischia (an island near Capri), Syracuse in Sicily and Turin, which has some fine restaurants and beautiful covered arcades for shopping and which, of course, hosted the 2006 Winter Olympic Games.

Also noted by CNN were spots such as San Felice Circeo in Lazio, Pienza in Tuscany and Narni, located in increasingly popular Umbria region, not far from Rome and known by the Romans as Narnia (hence the Chronicles of Narnia). It's an excellent list. To which I'll add a personal favourite I visited a couple years ago: Ponza.

Ponza is a fairly short ferry ride off the coast of central Italy, also not far from Rome. There's a small village with faded, colourful paint jobs and working fishing boats, as well as excellent restaurants and hotels mixed among the t-shirt shops.

I rented a car and drove around for a few hours, checking out dramatic, cliffside scenery and swimming in beautiful water. There are caves you can explore by boat, but it was too windy when I was there. Still, I just loved the sense of remoteness. I imagine it feels like Capri did before it was discovered by the beautiful people, not that there's anything wrong with that.

JAUNT.CA DEAL OF THE DAY

Jaunt.ca, a division of Torstar, has a deal on tap for a Bahamas and Caribbean cruise with Norwegian Cruise Lines, priced at just $672, including $153 in taxes.

Jaunt Highlights

• BONUS: Includes $50 Onboard Credit, and 1 bottle of wine per cabin
• 7-Night Bahamas & Florida cruise aboard the Norwegian Gem, starting from and ending in New York City
• Ports of call include: New York, New York; Orlando, Florida; Great Stirrup Cay, Bahamas; and Nassau, Bahamas 
• Accommodations in an Inside (Category IE) or Balcony Oceanview (Category BD) Stateroom
• Includes Freestyle Dining on board offering tons of complimentary and specialty dining options

• Great Stirrup Cay is Norwegian Cruise Line's exclusive island in the Bahamas - not just any ship gets to visit!
• Between the tennis, basketball, volleyball court and rock climbing wall, spend time on the outer decks doing more than just lounging by the pool
• Freestyle Dinning lets you eat dinner whenever you get hungry so you can make the most of your days on shore

Offer Details

• Valid for travel on September 7, 2013 sailing
• Pricing (per person, plus tax)
  
  Inside - Category IE (max. occupancy: 4):
  1st & 2nd person: $519
  3rd & 4th person: $399
  Tax: $153
  
  Balcony Oceanview - Category BD (max. occupancy: 3):
  1st & 2nd person: $749
  3rd person: $399
  Tax: $153
  
  We also offer Other DATES and FLIGHTS to NYC.
  Call us at 1-855-687-5925.
  
• To book an Inside stateroom, click on the 'Book Now' above.
• To book a Balcony Oceanview stateroom, click HERE
• Valid passport required for travel from Canada
• This offer is refundable until 5PM EST on May 8, 2013. After that time, this offer is 100% non-refundable.

 

 

 

Looking for love in the air? Try United or Delta ... Jaunt.Ca deal of the day: Disney

I wrote an item recently about Sir Richard Branson's Virgin airline launching a way for folks to buy each other a drink on board as a way of making a mile-high introduction. Now comes a report suggesting the best airlines (alas, only American ones) for making a love connection.

According to a story in the Atlanta Journal Constituion, your best chances are on a Delta Air Lines flight if the object of your desire is a single woman. The "destination-dating" website MissTravel.com surveyed 2,000 single female travelers to find out which airline they use most often and 28 percent said Delta was their No. 1 choice. The airline was preferred by 13 percent more women than those who chose No. 2 United Airlines. Delta and United are the No. 1 and No. 2 largest U.S. carriers, respectively.

United was followed by US Airways, Southwest, Virgin, JetBlue and AirTran.

Single women also appear to be more talkative while traveling, according to MissTravel.com. Sixty-four acknowledged they speak to strangers at airports or on flights than anywhere else; 39 percent said that they have or would consider dating someone they met during a flight.

Brandon Ware, the website's founder, suggested airlines increase their appeal to women traveling for leisure and the woman "who may have her eyes open for a potential love interest."

CHEAP U.S. AIRPORTS STILL LURING CANADIANS

The exodus of Canadians to cheaper airport south of the border shows no signs of abating. A CBC story out of WInnipeg says folks in Canada's avaiation industry are quite worried.

"What we really need to do is get airports, airlines and government in the room together to develop a new, national air travel strategy," said Daniel-Robert Gooch of the Canadian Airports Council.

Gooch was speaking at the Western Canadian Aviation Forum in Manitoba last week.

Canadians flying from U.S. airports "is a growing problem," said Senator Dennis Dawson, chairman of the Senate transport and communications committee. "It has been a problem for a yew years, but every year it grows by about 15, 20 per cent, so that means it is revenue lost for Canada."

Gooch said Ottawa needs to look at fees and taxes levied on Canadians and that lower fees would encourage Canadians to fly out of Canadian airports. But the federal government appears unwilling to do much about it.

Steven Fletcher, Canada's miniser of state for transport, suggested taxpayers shouldn't subsidize people's flights.

"Why would a Canadian taxpayer want to subsidize a trip to the Caribbean? Because that's essentially what is being argued."

THIS AND THAT: Cabot Links golf open ... Air Canada Vacations ... Wales and New York news

Cabot Links, which is an absolutely outstanding golf course in Cape Breton, Nova Scotia, is open for the season. They've reworked the course a bit and created a new 12th hole, which means six holes are right on the ocean (and the others have ocean views). They also have upgraded and renovated the clubhouse bar, which has great views of the course ... Members of Aeroplan have another way to earn miles or points. Aeroplan has signed a deal with The UPS Store Canada, giving customers more options for earning flights ... Air Canada Vacations has added Turkey to its lineup for the first time. Starting in June of this year, they'll offer nonstop flights to fabulous Istanbul  ... Happy first birthday to the Wales Coast Path. The path traverses The only footpath of its kind on the planet, the Wales Coast Path encircles all three sides of the Welsh Peninsula, along the entire 870 miles of its pristine coastline, encouraging visitors and residents alike to ‘discover the shape of the nation.’ It's a gorgeous coastline, I can tell you that. I especially loved the area around Nefyn when I was there for a golf trip a few years ago ... Starwood is spending $400 million renovating some of its top properties in New York City, including The Sheraton New York Times Square Hotel, W New York – Times Square, W New York - Union Square, W New York, The Westin New York at Times Square and The Westin New York Grand Central. I stayed at the W at Union Square last summer and thought it was terrific.

JAUNT.CA DEAL OF THE DAY

Jaunt.ca, a division of Torstar, has a fine deal on tap for Disney's Caribbean Beach Resort in Orlando, Florida, priced at $1,344, including $145 in taxes.

Jaunt Highlights

• BONUS: Includes 7-Day Magic Your Way Base Tickets with FREE UPGRADE to Park Hopper Option which gives you the flexibility to come and go through all 4 Walt Disney World Theme Parks on the same day for the entire length of your ticket!
• BONUS: Receive one $25 HBC gift card per adult booked
• 7-night stay at Disney's Caribbean Beach Resort
• Includes return airfare from Toronto or Montreal to Orlando with Air Canada, and round-trip hotel/airport transfers in Florida
• Accommodations in a Standard View Room, featuring 2 double beds. Max. occupancy: 4 adults or 2 adults + 2 children

• The island feel of Disney's Caribbean Beach Resort enhances your experience in the world's most magical vacation destination
• You'll be close to Epcot and Disney’s Hollywood Studios
• Enjoy the ultimate family vacation - create memories to last a lifetime!

Offer Details

• Valid for travel on the following departure dates:
  Toronto: June 13, July 30 & Aug 6, 2013                                   
  Montreal: June 6, 2013
• Pricing: (Rates are per person);
  
  Toronto:
  June 13, 2013:
  Double: $1199 + tax
  Single: $1839 + tax
  Triple: $1029 + tax
  Quad: $949 + tax
  Child (age 2-17): $559 + tax
  Tax: $145
  
  July 30 & August 6, 2013:
  Double: $1319 + tax
  Single: $1939 + tax
  Triple: $1159 + tax
  Quad: $1079 + tax
  Child (age 2-17): $699 + tax
  Tax: $145
  
  
  Montreal:
  June 6, 2013
  Double: $1294 tax included
  Single: $1884 tax included
  Triple: $1124 tax included
  Quad: $1044 tax included
  Child (age 2-17): $694 tax included
  
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• Add a Meal Plan: Disney Quick-Service Dining Plan offers dining at over 50 select restaurants throughout the Walt Disney World Resort and is available to add on to your package. To add Disney Quick-Service Dining Plan to your booking call our travel professionals at 1-855-687-5925.
  
• Magic Your Way Theme Park Ticket with Park Hopper Option: This option gives you the flexibility to come and go through all four Walt Disney World Theme Parks: Magic Kingdom Park, Epcot, Disney’s Hollywood Studios and Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park.
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Suing Air Canada over a 7up served in English ... Transformers ... Deal of day

At first glance, it is to laugh. The Supreme Court of Canada, CP reports, has agreed to hear the appeal of a couple who sued Air Canada when they weren't able to order a 7up soda in French.

It's a sad joke, you think to yourself. I mean, really? A 7up? They couldn't say 7up in English or point to a can or say "Sprite" or something?

We all know English speakers can run afoul of absurd language rules in Quebec. And we'll hear a lot about that as this case gets to the court, I'm sure.

But that's missing the point. Air Canada is mandated to serve people in both of our official languages. It's a legal requirement.

The 7up thing is silly on its own. Stupid, even. But if you read the fuller story you'll find that Michel and Lynda Thibodeau filed eight complaints with the official languages commissioner over what they say was English-only service they got on Air Canada flights between January and May, 2009.

You'll also find that Air Canada admitted fault. Here's the Canadian Press story on the Federal Court ruling from July, 2011, the ruling that's being appealled to the Supreme Court.

 Air Canada must pay $12,000 and apologize to an Ottawa couple after admitting it failed to provide them with services in French, a Federal Court judge ruled Wednesday.

However, the judge decided against imposing punitive damages, saying the carrier has tried to comply with its obligations under the Official Languages Act.

The case arose out of two trips Michel and Lynda Thibodeau made in the first half of 2009 between Ottawa and the United States.

They argued they couldn't get service in French when they checked in, at the boarding gate and aboard the flight, and that an announcement about a change of baggage carousel was made only in English.

The Ottawa couple each sought $25,000 in compensation.

"The applicants' language rights are clearly very important to them, " Madam Justice Marie-Josée Bédard said in her ruling."The violation of their rights caused them a moral prejudice, pain and suffering, and loss of enjoyment of their vacation."

Under the Official Languages Act, Air Canada   s required to communicate and provide services in both official languages where there is significant demand in the minority language.

Air Canada conceded the Thibodeau's had four legitimate complaints, but argued they didn't suffer damages that should be compensated. The judge disagreed. 

"Awarding damages in this case will serve the purpose of emphasizing the importance of the rights at issue, and will have a deterrent effect, " Bédard wrote.

After considering the various factors at play, Bédard set the amount at $6,000 each - $1,500 for each of the four admitted breaches. But she rejected the Thibodeau's request to award $500,000 in exemplary and punitive damages, which they based on what they described as arrogance from Air Canada's side.

Call me soft, but I think if Air Canada admits fault it should be required to pay something. The ruling by Bedard sounds quite reasonable to me, however.

It's difficult for Air Canada in the sense that other Canadian carriers aren't bound by the same rules. But AC gets plenty of help from the government (like in the recent pension decision). So I don't feel particularly sorry for them. These were flights from Ottawa, folks. Surely they'd have someone at the airport and on board to speak French.

Given the decision, I can't quite see why the Supreme Court is taking up the issue. Surely it's not the sort of publicity Air Canada wants. Nor the Prime Minister, I suspect.

ONTARIO GOVERNMENT APPLAUDED BY TOURISM FOLKS

The Tourism Industry Association of Ontario today sent out a release applauding Ontario Premier Kathleen Wynne's new provincial budget.

 "Yesterday’s budget showed us that the Ontario government is listening and supports the tourism industry in Ontario by maintaining their current level of investment in tourism, by increasing investment attraction activities, and by increasing the commitment and programing for job creation."

The Association said it had laid out three priority areas for the Province to consider in the 2013 budget:

- Maintain the current level of investment in tourism;
- Encourage the attraction of new investors to the tourism industry to build new product; and
- Maintain support of workforce development and skills training in tourism.

Tourism is a $23.6 billion a year industry in Ontario, the association said, noting opportunities for growth in places like China, India and Brazil.

"By working with partners across the country, Ontario can leverage its marketing dollars to draw new visitors and increase visitor spending. Attracting increased foreign and domestic tourism investment to Ontario benefits everyone: tourism operators, municipalities, residents and visitors alike. Investment in new and existing tourism experiences will attract more new visitors and encourage repeat visitors, enhancing Ontario’s reputation and strengthens the provincial economy."

It's interesting to see the note about China. I've said it before, but it seems everyone and his brother (and cousin) is madly chasing Chinese tourism dollars.

 A story I saw Thursday from Xinhua, the Chinese news agency, noted that Australia is trying to become "China Ready" as China is its fasted growing "and most cherished" market.

I've noted previously how hotels in Canada and the U.S. are adding more Mandarin speakers, plus adding Mandarin TV stations and other amenities. You'll find the same thing in top high-end shops on Fifth Avenue in Manhattan, I'm told. Now, in Sydney, folks who want to climb the famous Harbour Bridge will find Mandarin guides awaiting them.

If I was a kid today, I'd be trying to learn Mandarin...

CALGARY AIRPORT GROWING

Here's an item that'll make Montrealers gasp. It seems Calgary's airport is poised to become Canada's third biggest by the end of the year, surpassing Montreal Trudeau International.

Calgary is behind right now and in fourth spot, but with a faster growth rate than Montreal it's expected to go past the 14 million mark by the end of the year and surge past Montreal.

NEW TRANSFORMERS THEME PARK

Universal Orlando says it's new, 3-D theme park ride, based on the Transformers toy brand, will open June 20 in Florida.

Officials describe the ride as an interactive, "larger than life battle" between the Autobots and the Decepticons. It uses flight simular technology, along with wind, heat and smoke to make the riders feel immersed in the experience, according to Associate Press.

JAUNT.CA DEAL OF THE DAY

Jaunt.ca, a division of Torstar, has a fabulous deal today for a round-trip ticket to Florida, priced from just $210, including taxes and fees.

Jaunt Highlights

• Exclusive Airfare from Toronto to Orlando or St. Petersburg aboard Sunwing Airlines
• Choose from multiple departure and return dates to best suit your travel needs
• Sunwing prides itself on providing you with the best in-flight services and entertainment equipment.
  Your return airfare to the sunshine state includes:
  • Complimentary glass of champagne
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  • Non-alcoholic beverages and snacks
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  • Hot towel service

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• Enjoy a variety of experiences from the family fun found in Orlando to the beach life that permeates the entire country
• Use your time to travel to as many or as few Florida destinations as you like

Offer Details

• Valid for travel on either of the following dates:
  
  $210 tax included - Round-trip Toronto to Orlando
  Choose from the following Departure Dates: June 2, 9, 16, 2013
  Choose from the following Return Dates: Jun 9, 16, 23, 2013
  
  $315 tax included – Round-trip Toronto to St. Petersburg
  Choose from the following Departure Dates: May 10, 13, 17, 2013
  Return Date: May 24, 2013
  
  $315 tax included – Round-trip Toronto to Orlando
  Choose from the following Departure Dates: May 13, 17, 19, 24, 26, 2013
  Choose from the following Return Dates: May 27, June 2, 2013
  
  
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Pearson baggage woes ... Ottawa's tulip festival .. WestJet to Myrtle ... Deal/day

I flew into Toronto on Sunday from a trip out west, landing at Pearson around 4 p.m. Canadian Customs wasn’t remotely busy and there weren’t many people in the baggage claim area.

Yet it was crowded as can be as seemingly all the flights were disgorging bags onto the same carousel, number 10. There seemed to be a few other carousels in use at the far end, but in my immediate area there were probably seven or eight empty carousels. Yet mine was listing seven different flights for that carousel at one point.

After waiting 20 minutes (from the time the plane reached the gate) for the first bags to finally show, we were told they were switching over to Carousel 9; a good call given the crowding at number 10. Even then, however, it took another 15 minutes or so for the first bags to show up. And on a day when the airport wasn't busy.

I’m sorry but I just don’t understand how this works. As I’m wont to do, I put out a note on Twitter and got several responses from fellow frustrated Pearson users.

I got a response today from airport officials, explaining that they haven’t been able to get definitive answers from Air Canada about their staffing levels.

They went on to say they’re “looking at better ways to allocate the carousels, and we’re working with all airlines to make sure they are moving bags onto our system asap.”

Spokesman Scott Armstrong also told me that with the introduction of automated Customs kiosks in Terminal 3 (the first ones are coming to Terminal 1 soon; maybe the third week in May) and with more folks using the Nexus pass to speed through customs, folks are getting to the baggage hall a lot faster, “which exacerbates any delay of baggage delivery.”

At least officials admit they have work to do…

TULIPS AND MORE TULIPS

If you love spring flowers as much as I do, you definitely should check out the Canadian Tulip Festival, which starts Friday in Ottawa.

From May 3 through 20, 2013, the event features special programming and more than a million tulips of every colour on display in public areas downtown. Commissioners Park alone features 300,000 bulbs.

The tulip is Ottawa’s official flower, stemming from World War II, when the Dutch Royal Family took refuge in Ottawa and Princess Margriet—the younger sister of recently retired Queen Beatrix—was born during their stay. Canadian troops played a pivotal role in the liberation of the Netherlands, so when the war ended and the Royal Family returned to Europe, they sent a gift of 100,000 tulip bulbs to Ottawa. The gift of tulips continues to this day.

TORONTO TRAVEL NUMBERS

Toronto tourism is on the upswing. Officials with Tourism Toronto say American visits in 2011 rose 3 per cent, while last year they jumped 4.7 per cent.

When you consider the strength of the Canadian dollar and the expense of gas and airline tickets these days, those aren’t bad numbers. Mind you, cities around the world are claiming pretty significant tourism increases in general as the world economy stabilizes and business travel returns.

Still, 4.7 per cent is a decent number no matter how you slice it.

WEST JET TO MYRTLE BEACH

WestJet today begins seasonal service from Toronto to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. The service runs every Thursday and Sunday from now until the end of October, making it easy to take a four-day break or a longer holiday in a market that’s always been hugely popular with Canadians.

The high season is really March and April, which WestJet has missed. But Tim Croyle, vice president and general manager of WestJet Vacations, said bookings are good.

“It’s a great long weekend spot as it’s only two hours away,” he said. “You can leave Toronto at 9:30 a.m. and be there in time to have lunch on the beach.”

Golf is obviously a big part of the draw, with some 250 courses in the area, Croyle said. I was there a couple years ago and found some tremendous courses at very reasonable prices. I especially loved Caledonia Fish and Golf Club; a fabulous layout that’s dripping with beautiful trees covered with Spanish moss and littered with flowering shrubs. There’s also a terrific clubhouse where you can sip a cool drink on a wide porch and watch golfers play over the water at the 18th hole.

Nearby Murrells Inlet is a great place to stroll and get a bite to eat, right on the water.

And I found the food to be outstanding all over town for the most part. And very reasonably priced.

Croyle said WestJet has air only options, or you can book a package and arrange a stay at a hotel, resort or condo.

They currently have four properties, all on the beach or right across from the beach, and more are on the way.

“It’s a great family destination and there’s lots of shopping, too,” Croyle said.

JAUNT.CA DEAL OF THE DAY

Jaunt.ca, a division of Torstar, has a deal on tap for a great, 15-day trip across South America. It's priced at $5,895, including $250 in taxes, and hits on the most iconic sights on the continent.

Jaunt Highlights

• 15-Day/13-Night South American Wonders Tour, including visits to Rio de Janeiro (see photo at right), Buenos Aires, Iguassu Falls, Machu Picchu and more!
• Includes all international and domestic airfare, plus airport/hotel transfers throughout the tour. See Offer Details for more info.
• Includes transportation via private air conditioned vehicles, accompaniment of a licensed English speaking tour guide in Peru, Brazil & Argentina, sightseeing & entrance fees as per the itinerary and more!
• Accommodations based on double occupancy. Refer to itinerary below for hotels (or similar).
• 21 meals including daily breakfast, 4 lunches & 3 dinners

• Embark on a scintillating journey to world famous sites like Machu Picchu and Iguassu Falls
• Have unique experiences like dinner & folklore in Lima and a tango show in Buenos Aires
• Enjoy the best possible views in Brazil with trips to the top of Sugarloaf and Corcovado Mountain

Offer Details

• Valid for travel on November 8, December 29, 2013 & February 3, 2014
• Pricing (Rates are per person, plus tax):
  
  November 8, 2013:
  Double: $5645
  
  December 29, 2013:
  Double: $6975
  
  February 3, 2014:
  Double: $5995
  
  Single Supplement: $1200
  Tax: $250
  
  We also offer Other TOURS to South America.
  Call us at 1-855-687-5925.
  
  
• Your Flights Include: Departure airfare from Toronto to Rio de Janeiro and return airfare from Lima to Toronto, domestic round-trip flight from Rio to Iguassu, Iguassu to Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires to Lima, Lima to Cusco and Cusco to Lima.
• Accommodations Include: Windsor Plaza in Rio de Janeiro (3 Nights), Viale Cataratas in Iguassu Falls (2 Nights), Amerian Park in Buenos Aires (3 nights), Eco Inn Cusco in Cusco (4 nights) & Jose Antonio in Lima (1 night)
• Optional Tours: option to add a full day tour to Petropolis and/or a Rio by night show during stay in Rio de Janeiro at an additional cost. 
• Visa, gratuities and optional tours/excursions are NOT included. Tourist visa for Brazil is required. For more information CLICK HERE
• Ferry tickets from Buenos Aires to Montevideo are required and NOT included. Additional cost of $150 per person to be paid locally.
• Valid passport required for travel from Canada
• This offer is 100% non-refundable at time of booking

 

 

 

 

 

 

Born on "Hornyold Road" in England/ROM T.O. Tours/U.S. cab fares/Deal of day

 

I had a bit of fun in a recent Star Travel column, talking about funny place names such as Butts, Georgia and Dildo, Newfoundland. I got a few comments from readers, one of them talking about a spot in Ontario.

"Enjoyed your Sat. 27th article...brought a broad smile," John Rankin said in an email. "Here in Prince Edward County Ont. we have a hamlet (a few houses) called Gomorrah in Sophiasburg township.  No record of a Sodom."

Chris Roberts of Ontario also sent in a note.

"Really enjoyed your Saturday piece which I read while in Thunder Bay.  (Just got home yesterday.)  I was born during the war on Hornyold Road in Malvern (England), which now gets a laugh when I mention it.   

Recently, I looked this name up and found that it is a family name with a very long history in Worcestershire, going back to at least the Norman Invasion, when it was known as "de Horning Wold." In 1068 John de Horning Wold was a former Saxon Chief who was hanged "for stirring up discontent against the Normans."

In 1547 a descendent was Auditor of the Exchequer for Henry V111 and later, Queen Elizabeth 1, acquiring a manor and enormous estate of over 3,000 acres, also with a very long and sometimes dramatic history.

Isnt' that cool?

U.S. CAB FARES CITY BY CITY

Heading to the U.S. anytime soon? You might want to know what it’ll cost you for a cab ride.

Turns out, according to USA Today, that the most expensive city for taxis in the u.S. (no figures were available but you can bet Toronto would be sky-high) is San Jose, California, at $8.01 for the first mile. Tied for second were San Francisco and Honolulu at $7.78.

Chicago cabs cost $7.25 for the first mile, while a taxi in New York costs a relatively paltry $6.31 for the first mile. Buffalo is more expensive than New York at $6.39, while the first mile costs $7.06 in Las Vegas.

The cheapest taxi cities in the U.S. were Tulsa at $3.70 for a mile (just $1.50 when you step into the cab) and Detroit at $4.35. It’s just $5.04 for a mile in Miami and $5.55 in Tampa.

ROM TOURS OF TORONTO

I had no idea, but it seems the Royal Ontario Museum has been conducting tours of Toronto for a while now. Canadian Press reported this week that the city’s entertainment district has been added to the lineup.

The performing arts and the ever-growing list of names on Canada's Walk of Fame on King Street West are among the themes of the latest addition, along with a look back at the city's early history and the more recent rise of upscale hotels. Participants also stroll by the iconic CN Tower, CP said.

Most of the walks are free (the Entertainment District walk, called Arts & Entertainment Plus, costs $10).

The Annex, Cabbagetown and Wychwood Park are some of the distinctive neighbourhoods on this year's list, as well as tours along Jarvis, Front and Adelaide streets that take in historic architecture.

The walks are held every Wednesday evening and Sunday afternoon from May through October.

JAUNT.CA DEAL OF THE DAY

Jaunt.ca, a division of Torstar, has a deal for a great trip to exotic Thailand, priced at $2,140, including $350 in taxes.

JAUNT HIGHLIGHTS

• 11-day/10-night Island and Beach Hopping in Thailand Tour, including visits to Bangkok, Phi Phi Island, Krabi, Lanta Island and more!
• Includes round-trip flight from Toronto, Vancouver or Calgary to Bangkok, domestic flights as per itinerary, and airport/hotel transfers in Thailand
• Transportation throughout the tour via deluxe vehicle, domestic air and ferry
• Meals include 9 daily buffet breakfasts throughout the tour
• Accommodations based on double occupancy. Refer to itinerary below for hotels (or similar) 

• Thailand’s beaches have picture-perfect shorelines, warm waters and white sand that’s almost unbelievable at first sight
• Koh Lanta, one of 52 islands that make up  the Mu Koh Lanta National Park, is home to exotic species, coral reefs and tropical rain forests
• Accommodations are set in lush surroundings and feature modern amenities like bathrobes, air conditioning, hot and cold showers and a balcony sure to have an amazing view

Offer Details

• Valid for travel on October 12, 28 & November 4, 2013
• Pricing (Rates are per person, plus tax):
  
  Toronto:
  October 14, 2013:     
  Double: $2140 + Tax
  Single: $2530 + Tax
  Tax: $350
  
  October 28 & November 4, 2013:
  Double: $2240 + Tax
  Single: $2630 + Tax
  Tax: $350
  
  Vancouver:
  October 14, 2013:     
  Double: $1790 + Tax
  Single: $2180 + Tax
  Tax: $350
  
  October 28 & November 4, 2013:
  Double: $1890 + Tax
  Single: $2280 + Tax
  Tax: $350
  
  Calgary:
  October 14, 2013:     
  Double: $2090 + Tax
  Single: $2480 + Tax
  Tax: $350
  
  October 28 & November 4, 2013:
  Double: $2190 + Tax
  Single: $2580 + Tax
  Tax: $350
  
  
  Other DATES and GATEWAYS available.
  Call us at 1-855-687-5925.
  
  
• Valid passport required for travel from Canada
• This offer is 100% non-refundable at time of booking.

 

 

 

Hotel concerts a great idea ... Westin T.O. deal for sports fans ... Deal of the day

I hadn’t heard this, but it seems the folks at Aloft Hotels (a division of Starwood) have been trying to draw in guests by staging concerts in the lobby with local musicians. It’s a fine idea for both musicians and hoteliers, I’d say; good publicity for both. Dan Young at Starwood tells me the Aloft property at Vaughan Mills north of Toronto has a different band, artist or DJ come in on occasion. They had an L.A. band called Wicker play last June and you can click here for the video.

Of course, Hotel California would be a popular hit. And also Heartbreak Hotel, I guess. I’ve always liked Motel Matches by Elvis Costello. And don’t forget Gordon Lightfoot’s Hangdog Hotel Room.

WESTIN TORONTO SPORTS DEAL

Here’s a nice one for sports or music fans. The Westin Harbour Castle on the Toronto waterfront has a deal through Sept. 2 where guests can save on their stay if they come to town for a special event such as a Jays game or Leafs playoff contest or a concert. Guests must show the front desk their ticket for an event scheduled within 48 hours of their stay when they check in to get the offer, which can be booked with rates from $139 per night. Call 1-866-716-8101 or mention the EVENTS rate plan or visit www.westintoronto.com for more information. Rates are fully prepaid at time of booking and priced per room, per night based on single/double occupancy and are subject to availability. Advance reservations are required. Go Leafs, Go.

PENINSULA HOTELS UPDATE 

Peninsula Hotels are celebrating some big anniversaries this year. The New York property (Fifth and 55th) is celebrating a quarter century in business. There’s a new restaurant at the New York property, designed by the Toronto firm of YabuPushelberg. It’s set to open in the fall and will feature modern American cuisine with plenty of produce and other items from the American northeast. If you’ve never been, the rooftop bar at the New York property is quite something.

Elsewhere, the Peninsula Beverly Hills has finished an extensive renovation of its 193 guest rooms, suites and villas. Officials say it’s the only AAA Five Diamond and Forbes Five Star hotel in Southern California for 20 consecutive years.

In Bangkok, the Peninsula is celebrating its 15th anniversary. I had a chance to stay for a couple of nights two years ago and loved it: an incredible spa and a beautiful pool and fabulous food, combined with excellent service. Last I checked you could get a room for about $200 and it’s well worth it. The only thing I wasn’t crazy about when I visited was the lobby, which seemed rather old-fashioned. But I saw pictures of the new one and it’s jazzy and bright and modern; a nice change.

The venerable Hong Kong property – easily one of the top hotels of the world – is celebrating it’s 85th birthday this year and just finished a $60 million renovation. There will be year-long celebrations such as traditional tea dances (see photo below) and puppet shows and they also have specials.

They’re set to open their first property in Europe with the opening (probably next year but given French unions who knows) of a hotel in an old Beaux Art building on Avenue Kleber in paris, a short walk from the Champs Elysees and the Arc de Triomphe. The outdoor terrace looks outstanding and there will be a rooftop restaurant, bar and terrace with killer views of the Eiffel Tower and the Arc de Triomphe.

Peninsula announced last week that they’re proposing a hotel for Yangon, Myanmar (Burma) on the site of the former headquarters of the Burma Railway Building. It’s remarkable when you consider Myanmar was almost nowhere on the travel radar screen two or three years ago…

In addition to fine hotels, Peninsula likes to offer guests great local experiences. In New York you can arrange theatre tickets plus a chat with an actor or director and a behind-the-scenes look at a Broadway production. Or you can go casual by foraging for food in Central Park and having a picnic lunch (with or without the wild mushrooms you might have picked). Not your style? How about a tour of Brooklyn in a bespoke Mini Cooper and some great local pizza. At the Peninsula in Manila, you can take a helicopter ride to a distant river and have a picnic on a boat or check out the war history of the Philippines.

No word on a Canadian property any time soon but you'd have to think it's only a matter of time until Peninsula steps into the market.

JAUNT.CA DEAL OF THE DAY

Jaunt.ca, a division of Torstar, has a deal on tap for a great 12-night cruise from Rome to Athens for $2,145, including all fees and taxes.

Jaunt Highlights

• EXCLUSIVE TO JAUNT 2 for 1: For every one person paid in full, the second traveller's cruise is FREE! (Two for one pricing already reflected in the price)
• 12-Night Athens to Rome Cruise on board the Aegean Odyssey, starting in Athens, Greece and ending in Rome, Italy
• Includes excursions in the following cities and/or ports of call: Athens, Greece; Piraeus, Greece; Nauplia, Greece; Syracuse, Sicily; Trapani, Sicily; Palermo, Sicily; Sorrento, Italy; Bonifacio, Corsica; Livorno, Italy; and Rome, Italy 
• Accommodations in a Standard Inside Cabin (Category M)
• Includes open-seating dining, plus wine included with dinners on board
• Enjoy top lecture series and guest speakers on board to complement your cruise itinerary
• Includes gratuities on board, plus unique onboard experiences like lectures and fresh local fare
• A smaller cruise ship means exposure to less visited ports
• See Rome, Athens, Pompeii, Sicily and more

Offer Details

• Valid for travel on June 24, 2013 sailing
• Pricing (per person, based on double occupancy)
  
  Standard Inside Cabin (Category M): $2145 tax included
  
  NOTE: 2 for 1 pricing above reflects the following breakdown:
  1st passenger: $3300 + $495 port tax = $3795
  2nd passenger: $0 + $495 port tax = $495
  = $2145 tax included per passenger
• Option to upgrade your package and include airfare, transfers and hotel stays pre or post-cruise. Call our travel professionals to book: 1-855-687-5925
• Valid passport required for travel from Canada
• This offer is 100% non-refundable at time of booking 

 

 

 

 

A quick tour around Santa Cruz, California ... U.S. border fee a no-go?

SANTA CRUZ, CALIFORNIA - The far north coast of California is famous for its redwoods, as is Muir Woods in Marin County, just outside San Francisco. But it’s hard to beat the ones you’ll find towering magnificently around the coast near the surf town of Santa Cruz, an hour and a bit south of San Francisco. 

On a quick visit last week I started the morning at The Ugly Mug coffee shop in the town of Soquel, just down the road from my family cabin. It’s a fabulous coffee spot on the main drag, just up from Capitola Beach, with a great local vibe. In the Santa Cruz area, that means advertisements for acoustic music and raw milk in the window, local art on the walls and a list of characters that run the gamut from flower child to motorcycle dudes to local ranchers and surfers, all rolling in for their morning lattes and pastries.

If you opt to stay and drink your coffee, you can fill up with any of dozens of mugs (only some of them truly ugly) that are washed out daily and put out for folks to use. I opted for a rather garish one from Universal Studios in southern California if you must know. 

I got back to our cabin and told my Dad about how I’d read something in one of the local magazines about a good German restaurant in a nearby town called Ben Lomond. My Dad being fond of German food (he also used to turn on the radio on Sunday mornings and listen to oom-pah-pah music, or so my Mom used to tell me), I mentioned it to him.

Hearing about Ben Lomond prompted him to recall being a teenager in Oakland and driving down in a friend's Model A to go to dances or go swimming in the area. He also talked about a place called the Brookdale Lodge, where he said a river ran through the dining room.

I’ve seen a place like that in Kelowna, B.C., a Best Western hotel with a huge atrium and a powerful, rushing river, but I didn’t know there was one in northern California. So we hopped in the car and went for a drive to check it out and see about some schnitzel or sauerbraten for lunch.

Alas, the German place was closed for lunch and the Brookdale Lodge has been shuttered for a couple years. It’s in a state of dusty disrepair but the security guard was nice enough to briefly show off the place to a couple of nostalgic visitors.

The dining room doesn’t look too much different from the way it did back in the day, my Dad said. The river still runs down the middle, and there are banks of tables that rise toward a high wall featuring stained glass segments. There’s a magnificent glass light fixture hanging over it all and a small bridge at one end. It’s said that former U.S. President Herbert Hoover used to fish off the bridge for brook trout, and my Dad said that back in the day you could catch your own fish in the stream and give it the kitchen staff, who’d prepare it for your dinner.

The place needs a ton of work and probably has too many rooms by half, I’d say. But I can imagine some dot.com billionaire from the nearby Silicon Valley giving it a shot. I hope so, as it would be a great story and a fun place to bed down in the redwoods.

The nearby town of Ben Lomond (see photo at left) feels like a small city you’d find in Oregon or the interior of British Columbia, with old wood fronts and a casual, outdoorsy feel. We stopped at the old Mac’s Bar, where folks used to pin dollar bills to the ceiling with darts. It’s now a fun shop featuring all sorts of old-time knick knacks; Pinocchio dolls and old car models and fun signs.

From there we backtracked to Felton and then took Highway 9 back into Santa Cruz. It’s a winding road that drops through a line of incredibly tall, beautiful redwood trees. It’s a thick, luscious canopy that feels like a cathedral, with broken light cascading through the green treetops and the deep smell of redwood and fog and sunshine all at once.

We motored into Santa Cruz and opted to have a bowl of chowder and a beer out on the pier, where you can dine behind tall panes of glass that keep out the wind. The surfers were dashing about in the waves off to the west at Steamer Lane - a legendary surf break in California - and noisy sea lions were barking on the pier below us as we dined.

The pier in Santa Cruz is a great shop for a bite or a stroll or for fishing. And the views are great. You can see the dun-coloured cliffs and colourful homes on West Cliff Drive. Off to one side and, to the east, the old-timey Santa Cruz boardwalk with its historic merry-go-round and one of the oldest wooden roller coasters in the world.

We also stopped at a hole-in-the-wall (I mean that in a good way) Mexican joint on Water St. called Tacos Moreno, where for about $5 you get a massive quesadilla filled with chicken and beans and cheese and oozing hot sauce. I can only imagine how filling a $6 burrito would be.

U.S. BORDER FEE A NO-GO?

Canadian Press reports that a U.S. congressman says Canadians should not be overly concerned about a proposed border crossing fee, saying it just isn’t going to happen.

Democratic representative Brian Higgins, who is from the border city of Buffalo, N.Y., told CTV’s Question Period on Sunday that he has a lot of allies in the U.S. Congress who will stop any legislation that includes a fee.

Higgins, who is a member of the Homeland security committee, has been a vocal critic of a proposed feasibility study on a border fee since it was spotted last week buried deep in the department’s 2014 budget.

New York Senator Charles Schumer, a Democrat, has also spoken out in opposition.

The Canadian government said it would lobby against such a fee.

But Higgins says there is sufficient political opposition to stop any such fee in its tracks.

“I’m telling you it’s not going to happen,” Higgins said. “The early indications are that both Democrats and Republicans oppose it and any new fee would have to get by both the House of Representatives, of which I am a member, and also the United States Senate, which Senator Schumer is a member. I’m going to fight this very very aggressively and I have a lot of allies.”

 

HOT AIR BALLOON DEATHS

You have to wonder about the safety of these things. Travelmole.com reports two people are missing, feared dead, after a hot air balloon carrying six tourists crashed into the Pacific Ocean off the coast of Peru.

Peruvian authorities rescued five women on Sunday but the pilot and another man are still missing. The women were found clinging to the balloon's floating basket. Peru's Interior Minister criticised the balloon's owner, Globos Peru SAC, for failing to provide life jackets and for not equipping it with a GPS tracker.

 
In February, you may recall, a hot air balloon crashed in Luxor, Egypt, killing 19 tourists. Star Travel columnist Arthur Frommer wrote a story about the safety of balloons after that incident, and his words seem remarkably prescient today.

Romance in the skies: Sir Richard Branson at it again with a new drinks idea

You gotta love Virgin's Sir Richard Branson.

The happy-go-lucky travel biz/music biz star has a great and fun video where he pitches an idea involving buying drinks for that attractive gal - or guy - up in row 18 so you "get lucky at 35,000 feet."

Branson talks about how it would be great if you could offer that hot chick or guy you saw at the gate a chance to ride in a sub-orbital space ship or float in a hot air balloon with a bottle of wine but admits not everyone has access to his level of credit card. That means you might have to aim lower. And Branson has the perfect solution: Virgin's on-board system where you can swipe your credit card and order a meal, snack or a drink (I suspect the preferred option) to your hope-to-be friend.

Then, using Virgin's seat-to-seat messaging service (I haven't had the pleasure but it sounds fun), you can text your high-flying would-be friend and set up a rendezvous at your destination. Or not.

"I'm not a betting man but I say your chances of deplaning with a plus one are at least 50 per cent," Branson says. "Best of luck up there. Cheers."

ASIA TRAVEL UPSWING

I've written in this space before about the increase of Chinese tourism in Canada and the U.S., with planeloads of folks arriving every day to spend money in Vancouver, Los Angeles, New York and other spots. Now I see there's a VISA study that global travel budgets may rise by an average of 5 per cent this year because of the increase in Asian leisure travel.

A report on Fox News said Asians on average "are likely to increase their travel budgets 46 per cent this year, with travelers from Singapore, Thailand and Hong Kong planning to at least double the budget of their last trip in the future."

Forty six per cent? That's amazing. Not to mention potentially huge for the Canadian tourism industry if they can manage to snag a decent portion of that spending.

NEW LONDON HOTEL RATINGS

Forbes Travel Guide has expanded into Europe; unveiling its hotel and spa rating service for London hotels.

 

A story in the Telegraph said that "six London hotels and two London hotel spas were awarded five-star status by the judges, meaning London is among the top three destinations worldwide with the greatest concentration of Five Star properties in the more than 140 markets rated and inspected by the company."

The six luxury hotels in London which achieved five stars are 45 Park Lane, Claridge’s, Four Seasons Hotel London at Park Lane, The Dorchester, The Lanesborough and The Savoy; the two hotel spas to achieve five stars are The Spa at Four Seasons and The Spa at Mandarin Oriental, London. Just so you know....

 

 

 

 

 

Oregon: one vastly under-rated state ... Porter adds Boston/Chicago flights

Folks from all over Canada know California.

Many of us, especially those in British Columbia, are familiar with Washington state, B.C.'s neighbour to the south.

Oregon? Not as much. This is a state that gets sandwiched between two bigger west coastAmerican brothers and probably doesn't get the visitation it deserves. It's a bit far for a day trip from B.C. and it's a hundreds of miles north of San Francisco.

But if you don't check it out you're missing a huge treat; a wildly diverse state that has just about everything you could want in a relative compact package: endless, beautiful beaches; towering mountains; alpine lakes; gorgeous and trendy cities with fabulous food and pubs, a vast desert area with world-class golf and adventure and a deeply green valley that grows some of the best wines in the world; especially Pinot Noir.

Oregon officials pride themselves especially on their food and drink scenes and on adventure travel. Because they have the Willamette Valley, they can grow darn near anything in a climate that's cooler than California but warmer than B.C., for the most part.

They didn't invent farm-to-table cuisine, one official told me over coffee this week, they just live it. Portland has an amazing food scene, with tons of fresh seafood and Oregon beef and inventive, cosmopolitan dishes. It's also one of the leading brewpub cities of the world.

Portland likes to be different. There's a large (and popular) wall in town that says "Keep Portland Weird."

The traditional downtown (for tourists anyway) on the west side of the river has been a lively spot for years, but now the neighbourhoods on the east side are becoming just as hip, with new distilleries hawking homemade gin, vodka and whisky. I'm told you can take a $20 pedicab tour and check out several distilleries, all the while admiring traditional neighbourhoods and cool architecture.

It's only 45 minutes to the Columbia River Gorge from Portland, 30 minutes to the Willamette Valley and 90 to the Pacific Ocean. The state has 580 km of oceanfront property,and it's all open to the public. Some of it is rocky and looks like Big Sur in California, while other parts offer broad, sweeping beaches and cute fishing villages. You also can check out some of the best golf on the planet at Bandon Dunes, a true links course where they have several options, including a par-3 course. Some of the sand dunes nearby are open for folks to try sandboarding; like snowboarding but without the ice. And the cold. Mind you, with the Cascade Mountains you can try real skiing or snowboarding for large stretches of the year, too.

The area around Bend, in the centre of the state, is famous for its low humidity and beautiful river canyons. Lots of rafting and watersports and hiking and golf and biking in the area.

Further west and north is Pendleton, home of the famous Western shirts. This is cowboy country, with rolling hills and endless ranches and a real western feel.

Toss in some good university towns and natural spots such as Crater Lake National Park and you've got perhaps one of the most diverse states in the U.S.

And there's no sales tax, even on your food and drink purchases. So it's great for shopping.

The best way to get there for now is through Calgary or Vancouver but Oregon officials are hoping to someday soon land a direct flight from Portland to Toronto.

PORTER ADDS OPTIONS

Porter Airlines today announced added weekend flights from the Toronto Island Airport to both Boston and Chicago, effective immediately. They're also adding another weekday flight from the island (Billy Bishop Airport) to Chicago's Midway airport from June 24 to Aug. 30.

This has increased the number of weekly options to as many as 43 roundtrips, for both Boston and Chicago, including eight weekend roundtrips to both cities, officials said.

“Boston and Chicago have always been popular markets, but with the launch of Porter Escapes, our new packaged vacations platform, we are seeing even higher demand for leisure travel to these two cities,” said Robert Deluce, president and CEO of Porter Airlines. “The additional Saturday flights allow greater flexibility for weekend travel, providing convenient options for any schedule.” 

 

 

A $1.56 million trip of a lifetime ... New flights T.O. to Dublin ... Halifax golf

It’s a tad expensive as trips go. Roughly $1.56 million, to be precise. But it promises to be the vacation/expedition of a lifetime.

A company called VeryFirstTo.com is selling an Ultimate Journey package that includes the Taj Mahal, Petra in Jordan, Angkor Wat in Cambodia (see photo below), the Forbidden City in Beijing and Peru’s Machu Picchu. And a few other spots, such as, get this, every one of the world’s 962 World Heritage Sites.

Although various governments current advise against visiting some World Heritage Sites, including Pasargadae in Iran and Leptis Magna in Libya, the firm apparently will try to make everyone happy, according to the Daily Telegraph in London.

The trip includes overland travel and flights (in business class cabins or superior), while tours of the different sites will be guided (presumably by workers carrying peacock feathers and iced Grey Goose martinis). Accommodation will be at a range of luxury hotels, including Sandy Lane in Barbados (a lovely spot I got to stay in - briefly - a few years ago) the Hotel George V in Paris and The Plaza in New York (a Fairmont property, also a very fine hotel).

The trip – billed as the ‘world’s most expensive holiday’ – was launched last month by VeryFirstTo.com. Now the company’s founder, Marcel Knobil, says two wealthy travellers have expressed firm interest in becoming the first people to embark on what the Telegraph called “an epic odyssey.”

The first chap is said to be a Chinese fellow who can’t go until he’s finished his PhD tudies next year. An Italian industrialist also is on the verge of booking, according to Knobil.

Just in case you have cash to spare, VeryFirstTo.com also is willing to book you a trip into space for $108,000 and the chance to wake up surrounded by more than one million rose petals for a $110,000.

The latter seems kind of expensive to me. I think you probably could drive to Ottawa and lie down in front of Parliament Hill and wake up in mid-May with about a million tulip petals all around. And you’d only have to pay for your bail after the cops arrest you.

ON THE OTHER HAND

If you’re more in the market for value, Fox News recently put out a list of its top value hotels around the world.

Among them was the Coco Palm Resort in St. Lucia, which I’ve heard previously is a good deal, as well as Le Richelieu in the French Quarter of New Orleans, The Dean Street Townhouse in London, England and Hotel Le Germain Dominion in Quebec City.

Fox cited the Germain’s “historic, wood-and-stone façade” and bank vault doors that are played off against stylish, modern décor. Breakfast is included and there’s also free Internet (hurray) and a Nespresso coffee machine in each room.

I went online and found a room in early May for $222. Not cheap but not bad for what looks like a nice property.

IRELAND RISING

More than a million folks from Canada and the U.S. visited Ireland last year and spent more than $994 million, an increase of 9.3 per cent. This year marks a year-long event called The Gathering, a series of festivals and events celebrating “the unique nature of what it means to be Irish.” Which means numbers could increase even more. Air Canada this week announced it will start year-round service from Toronto to Dublin on its new, discount airline, Rouge, beginning May 1, 2014. Service this year is from May 17 to Sept. 30.

THIS AND THAT 

Toronto golf designer Tom McBroom has announced a new, championship course for Halifax. It’s called The Links at Brunello and is slated to open in June 2015. There hasn't been much in the way of new golf course construction in this country for a while, so it's a good sign. I hope … I guess we can put our pocketknives – and hockey sticks – back in cold storage. After suggesting they’d lift the ban on those and other items on airplanes, the folks at TSA in the U.S. now say they need to consult pilots, airline workers and other concerned parties (many of whom have expressed alarm at the proposal) before they can revoke the ban … Nice way to start a vacation? Not really. It seems a worker at Los Angeles International Airport the other day mistakenly hit a switch and, for eight minutes, caused flight status signs to flash the message “Emergency: Leave the Terminal.” …