News and Happenings from Around the Region

News

Congratulations to Panama City Beach, Fla., and the Northwest Florida – Panama City International Airport. Southwest Airlines will begin operating eight daily flights through the airport starting May 18, 2010.
Five natural and historic sites in the U.S. were recently awarded the Phoenix Award from the Society of American Travel (SATW). The award recognizes individuals or organizations actively involved in conservation, preservation, beautification and anti-pollution campaigns to further growth and appeal of North American travel destinations. Three sites in the South were honored: Journey Through Hallowed Ground (Waterford, Va.), Edison & Ford Winter Estates (Ft. Myers, Fla.) and World Birding Center (McAllen, Texas).
Decatur (Ala.)/Morgan County CVB has released a brochure highlighting the area’s notable African-American leaders. Information within the brochure focuses on early pioneers to the early 1900s. There’s also a comprehensive list of African-Americans in various industries.
Thinking about a holiday gift for the traveler in your life? Why not give them a gift certificate for a getaway at a one of the Select Registry Inns.

Deals/Packages

Take some time off one weekend to relax and rejuvenate with Vero Beach (Fla.) Hotel & Spa’s A Votre Sante package. Good through December 20, the package includes one bottle of reservatrol-rich red wine, in-room 50-minute massage and admission for two adults to McKee Botanical Gardens and more. If this doesn’t fit your travel style, there are many other packages available at the property as well.
Realizing that pets should travel with their human companions, Hotel Palomar Dallas has appointed Kora, a golden Labrador retriever puppy as the director for pet relations. To celebrate this appointment, the hotel is offering a Kora package (use code KOR when making reservations) that includes 50 percent off best available room rate for stays November 1 –December 31, and oodles of fun pet amenities. There’s also a Reigning Cats & Dogs package as well.
Numerous properties listed in BedandBreakfast.com are offering discounts of 10 percent and more to military personnel for stays now through late 2010.