An Effective Plan For Luxury Travel and Hotels

The ever-worsening economic recession has, of course, taken its toll in a number of areas. Among them we can certainly include the field of travel and perhaps the worst hit have been the proprietors of luxury hotels and luxury travel agents. Let us look at the problems this area is facing.

The Changing Guest

The fact is that many so called luxury travellers have indicated that the current economic climate is not having that much impact on their travel plans. Indeed, the attraction of travel has certainly not subsided and many are choosing to adapt to the recent recession. This is especially true of high-end luxury travellers, many of whom stress that the current economy is actually more of an incentive for travelling, both to escape the hardships and because rates are generally lower at the present time.

However, it would appear that what is changing is what actually constitutes people’s idea of luxury. Research has shown that at present, people are far more interested in being entertained than being pampered. Quite simply people, with luxury travellers included, are now looking for a whole different type of experience. Whilst a survey conducted in 2007 concluded that what the guest most wanted was the feeling of ‘being pampered’, the luxury type hotels that are renowned for pampering are now in less demand than ever.

A follow up survey conducted just two years later concluded that the top three experiences people are now seeking are, from first to last: entertainment, excitement and inspiration. It is true to say, however, that a great number of hotels and tour operators have reacted to the changing environment. This is evident from the number of ‘transformational travel’ offers available in addition to the growing number of ‘kids clubs’ that are being offered as part of a package. In short, the focus has shifted to one that aims to address the traveller’s need for enrichment.

With this in mind, many tour operators and hoteliers have introduced fields such as ‘educational tourism’ or ‘adventure travel’ and many are even choosing to cater for those who want to volunteer abroad during their gap year. After all, these could be the luxury travellers of the future and a gap year could inspire travel ambitions. The focus now is on personal growth and the above trends are continuing to grow as hotel managers begin to fully grasp their potential market value.

The Luxury Traveller Is Now Predominantly Female

A further trend within the luxury travel sector is that women tend to be the ones seeking luxury travel rather than their male counterparts. Indeed, more and more women are now choosing to travel alone or as part of an all female group, more so than at any other time in history. Luxury travel operators and hotels again have to adapt accordingly. For women, much more so than men, a holiday has to have some kind of ‘special interest’. Therefore, we now see travel guides offering all kinds of special interest packages including well-being or spa retreats, women’s golfing holidays, surfing women or ‘wine and women’ deals.

In conclusion then, we can see that the face of luxury travel is changing and in some areas, rather drastically. Nonetheless, whilst rates for luxury hotels have fallen to a certain extent, there is still more than enough demand to mean that, for the most part, the area has maintained its strong price strength. Indeed, as long as those involved continue to take adaptive measures, the field of luxury travel and hotels is sure to outlast the current economic downturn.

AUTHOR BIO

Ben Scriber writes regularly on the topic of travel for a wide range of related websites and blogs. His main focus remains that of adventure holidays and he recently worked as a volunteer abroad.

Omni Hotels & Resorts to Pilot Rainmaker’s New GroupREV™ Group Forecasting …

Lesli Reynolds, Vice President, Global Distribution Revenue Strategy for Omni Hotels Resorts

This initiative will provide our sales leaders with a sophisticated, configurable pricing tool that will help them to quote rates with confidence based upon what’s going on in their market with greater efficiency and speed.

Atlanta, GA (PRWEB) May 15, 2012

The Rainmaker Group, a world leader in automated forecasting and profit optimization software and services for the hospitality industry, announces that Omni Hotels Resorts has agreed to pilot its new GroupREV™ group forecasting and pricing software at four locations over the next two months. The four locations, chosen based on their large volume of group business and diverse mix of customer segments, are Fort Worth, Texas; San Diego, California; Washington, DC; and Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

A standalone solution tailored to meet the needs of both traditional and casino hotels, GroupREV provides a scientific modeling and elasticity-based approach to solving the many longstanding challenges associated with group forecasting and pricing.

“We started developing GroupREV quite a while ago in response to demand for a group forecasting and pricing solution for hotels that caters primarily to groups and conventions and because no existing product leveraged a science-based approach,” said Tammy Farley, principal of Rainmaker. “Since August 2011, our scientists and analytics teams – with the strong, collaborative support of our longtime, valued partner, Omni Hotels Resorts – have continued to fine-tune the methodology to identify the best data and metrics to use in determining group pricing.”

Although GroupREV will work with any revenue management system, for the Omni Hotels Resorts implementation, GroupREV will be tied to Rainmaker’s GuestREV revenue management system, which ties in with Omni’s central reservations system. GroupREV will receive nightly extracts from Omni’s sales and catering system, which is also used to manage all of Omni’s group bookings. All of this information is used by GroupREV to determine optimal pricing.

Omni Hotels Resorts, which includes 50 distinct luxury hotels and resorts in leading business gateways, meeting and leisure destinations across North America, is a natural for this new group forecasting and pricing tool. Approximately 50 percent of its revenues comes from group business; the other half from individual travelers.

“The Rainmaker team already offers us a great solution (GuestREV) for studying demand and making recommendations to help us optimize transient revenues whenever demand exists,” said Lesli Reynolds, Vice President, Global Distribution Revenue Strategy for Omni Hotels Resorts. “Given our success with GuestREV, we welcomed the opportunity to work with Rainmaker to apply that same level of scientific and analytical expertise to our group business.”

The Omni Revenue Management team studied various group pricing tools. Ultimately, the team selected Rainmaker’s GroupREV based on the metrics, methodology and resulting group pricing recommendations as well as the long-term partnership with the company, which enable them to customize the tool with additional metrics useful in establishing rational pricing for their groups.

“This initiative will provide our sales leaders with a sophisticated, configurable pricing tool that will help them to quote rates with confidence based upon what’s going on in their market with greater efficiency and speed,” said Reynolds. “Sales managers will be able to focus the majority of their time on understanding and delivering on customer needs.”

Reynolds, a 24-year hospitality industry veteran, considers GroupREV a win-win business proposition. Reynolds says it may take six to nine months, perhaps even 12 months in some cases, to be able to assess the full benefits of the GroupREV system’s power and promise – primarily due to the long lead times required in group business. But, she says, “We anticipate that it’s going to measure up to our expectations. Rainmaker has done a very nice job partnering with us, and we are confident that as we bring them feedback, they’ll incorporate that learning into the scientific process.”

About Omni Hotels Resorts

Omni Hotels Resorts creates genuine, authentic guest experiences that take guests on “A Total Departure” to 50 distinct luxury hotels and resorts in leading business gateways and leisure destinations across North America. From exceptional golf and spa retreats to dynamic business settings, each Omni showcases the local flavor of the destination while featuring four-diamond services, signature restaurants, Wi-Fi connectivity and unique wellness options. Known for its award-winning, personalized service, Omni leaves a lasting impression with every customer interaction, with a heightened level of recognition and rewards delivered through its Select Guest loyalty program and the company’s “Power of One” associate empowerment program. Earlier this year, Omni’s loyalty program was further expanded with the launch of the GHA Discovery® loyalty program expanding numerous benefits on a worldwide basis as a member of the Global Hotel Alliance. The brand is frequently recognized by top consumer research organizations and leading media outlets. To get additional information or book accommodations, visit omnihotels.com or call 1-800-The-Omni.

About Rainmaker

The Rainmaker Group is the market leader in profit optimization solutions for the Gaming Hospitality and Multifamily Housing industries. Rainmaker software, coupled with professional business consulting services, helps operators of casino hotels and other hospitality enterprises secure the most valuable customers to increase their profitability and enables multifamily housing operators to maximize revenue from apartment leases. Rainmaker is a Microsoft Gold Certified Partner and leverages cutting-edge research in order to bring customers the most sophisticated solutions to their revenue management challenges. Adopted by industry leaders and niche players alike, Rainmaker solutions provide clients a strategic advantage in achieving the highest profitability from their assets. Gaming/Hospitality clients include leading casino/hotel organizations such as Atlantis The Palm Dubai, Caesars Entertainment, Isle of Capri Casinos, MGM Resorts International, Omni Hotels Resorts, Revel, Wynn Las Vegas and many others. Multifamily housing clients include leaders such as Archstone, AvalonBay Communities, Equity Residential, Gables Residential, Post Properties, Mid-America Apartment Communities and more. Headquartered in northern Atlanta, GA, Rainmaker is an innovator and thought leader in the highly specialized revenue optimization field. In 2011, Inc. magazine ranked Rainmaker among America’s top 5,000 fastest growing, privately held companies. For more information, visit http://www.LetItRain.com.

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Calendar of Events and Entertainment May 5 – 12

All area codes are 850 unless specified.

Saturday, May 5

Biophilia Center

Solve the Mystery: Tracks, Skulls, and Furs — Who Do They Belong To? at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. at the Biophilia Center in Freeport.Standard admission rates apply. Call 835-1824.

Corks N’ Canvases

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwest Florida is seeking corporate sponsors for their annual Corks N’ Canvases event from 6-9 p.m. at Warren Averett O’Sullivan Creel in Fort Walton Beach. This event is Big Brothers Big Sisters signature fundraising event in Okaloosa and Walton Counties and features a wine tasting, heavy hors d’oeuvres by Clemenza’s, live entertainment, and a silent auction featuring vacation packages along the Gulf Coast, restaurant gift certificates, spa retreats and of course, artwork by the some of the area’s most well known artists.

Peddler’s Alley

An open-air market event for the whole community will be held from 8 a.m. to noon in the alleys of downtown DeFuniak Springs. Vendors offer arts and crafts, gifts and yard sale items, plants, jams and jellies, baked goods, and more. Music and bargains from local businesses.

Energy Conservation Discovery Expo

The City of DeFuniak Springs will host the first Energy Conservation Discovery Expo from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Caboose on Circle Drive in DeFuniak Springs. The event is free and will feature hands-on activities and live demonstrations with field experts available. Call 892-8500.

Cooked To Order

Saint Agatha’s Episcopal Church, 150 Circle Dr. in DeFuniak Springs, will host a breakfast, Cooked To Order, from 7-11 a.m. Cost is $4.50 adults and $2.50 children under 10. Proceeds benefit the building and grounds fund.

Cinco de Mayo celebration

Cantina Laredo Gourmet Mexican Food presents their annual Cinco de Mayo celebration from 2-11 p.m. at Grand Park in Grand Boulevard and at the restaurant. Enjoy authentic Latin music by Tropisound, a six-piece salsa band, dancing and contests. A salsa dancing contest, face painting, crafts, door prizes, food, drinks and displays by various Grand Boulevard will be included. The event is free. Dora the Explorer will meet children and pose for pictures from 5-8 p.m. Call 654-5649.

May Day Festival

The Annual May Day Festival and BBQ Cook-Off begins at 10 a.m. in Wee Care Park in DeFuniak Springs with softball, entertainment, family fun, and more. Entertainment includes the Mossy Head Headliners and New Heights Wrestling. The BBQ Cook-Off is hosted by the Florida Panhandle BBQ Society with judging for sauce at 1 p.m., chicken at 2 p.m., and ribs at 3 p.m. Admission is free. Call 4290.

Adventure Club

Bike ride on the 30-A Bike Path in South Walton County. Meet at 10 a.m. at the Ed Walline Beach Access Park at the intersection of Hwy.  393 and Hwy. 30-A.  Lunch along the bike path.  Call 301-9452.

Seaside Farmers Market

Get your pick of fresh produce, baked goods, dairy products, native plants and other unique offerings from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the Amphitheatre behind Raw Juicy. Enjoy special cooking demos and activities.

Sunday, May 6

Sunday Brunch

Build your own Bloody Mary at Sunday Brunch from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. at First Note Music Hall, 2052 CR 30A Redfish Village in Blue Mountain Beach. Call 622-0221.

Dread Clampitt

Dread Clampitt performs from 12-3 p.m. and 7-11 p.m. at Red Bar, 70 Hotz Ave. in Grayton Beach. Call 231-1008.

Florida Trail Association

A 7.5-mile day hike at 8:30 a.m. on the Juniper Creek Trail in Santa Rosa County. Call 723-5112.

Monday, May 7

NRDA meeting

Walton County will host an eight county Natural Resource Damage Assessment meeting from 1-3 p.m. at the South Walton Annex. An update on the negotiation process with BP and a status report on projects will be given. The public is welcome to attend.

Friends of Scenic 30-A

The Friends of Scenic 30-A and The 30A Foundation, Inc. will meet from 5-6 p.m. at 70 Logan Lane in Grayton Beach to discuss the 30-A wildflower grant.

Storytelling workshop

Coastal Library Storytelling Workshops will be held at 4 p.m. in the community room for elementary age children grades 3 and up. Storyteller Susie Arnold will present the art of storytelling with puppets and props inviting young people to “tell” stories. Call 267-2809 or email tholinda@co.walton.fl.us for more information.

Tuesday, May 8

Special Election

Walton County residents will vote for or against a half-cent sales tax to fund a new 331 bridge. Polls will be open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Call 892-8112. All registered voters in Walton County are eligible to vote.

Music at the Rep

Grammy-nominated singer/songwriter Gretchen Peters performs at 7:30 p.m. at the Seaside Meeting Hall Theatre. Tickets are $30. Visit seasiderep.org or call 231-0733.

Meals in a Snap

The Walton County Health Department and the University of Florida IFAS Extension will offer an interactive cooking demonstration class, Mexican Fiesta, from 6-7 p.m. at the Walton County Extension office, 732 N.9th St. in DeFuniak Springs. The cost is $5 per class or $20 for the series. Pre-registration required at 892-8172.

Marie’s Bistro

Singer/guitarist Bill Evett performs from 7-11 p.m. Fridays at Marie’s Bistro on 30A in Blue Mountain Beach. DJ Vladi begins DJ-ing dance music and fun at 8:30 p.m. Saturdays; Karaoke takes center stage on Wednesdays; Kelsey Ann performs Thursdays; and Danice Lowery on Tuesdays.

Wednesday, May 9

Income seminar

Searching for Income in a Low-Yield Environment and Investing for Income, hosted by Wes Martinez with Charles Schwab Co., Inc., will be held at noon at Embassy Suites Hotel, 570 Scenic Gulf Drive in Miramar Beach. RSVP by May 7 at 654-6806.

Wednesday Night Concert Series

The Village of Baytowne Wharf presents a free concert with Honey Island Swamp Band from 7-9 p.m. in the Events Plaza. Call 267-8186.

Seagrove Garden Club

The Seagrove Garden Club will meet at 10 a.m. for its annual Garden Tour on 30A. Lunch follows at Café 30A. Cost is $18-$23 and $5 more for guests. Reservations required at 267-9586.

Conference for Writers

Writers in all stages of development are invited to attend a conference May 9-11 in Rosemary Beach. Morning workshops, craft classes, and flash fiction boot camp, afternoon lectures and panels, and nightly receptions and readings will be offered. Registration fee is $300. Student rate is $200. Visit www.conferenceforwriters.com.

Sean Dietrich

Sean Dietrich and his group play at Christiano’s Ristorante on U.S. 98 in Santa Rosa Beach. Call 267-2185.

Thursday, May 10

Health and Safety Fair

Van R. Butler Elementary will host its first Health and Safety Fair from 8:15 a.m. to 2:15 p.m. Presentations include animal bite and pool safety; McGruff; Forest Fire and Smoky Bear; and Gun Safety and Eddie Eagle.

Mattie Kelly Arts Center

The Mattie Kelly Arts Center at Northwest Florida State College in Niceville presents Mel Brooks musical Young Frankenstein at 7:30 p.m. Call 729-6000 or visit the Box Office between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Monday to Friday for ticket information.

Florida Chautauqua Theatre

The Florida Chautauqua presents Disney’s “Beauty and the Beast” at 7 p.m. May 10-12 and at 2:30 p.m. May 13 at the Theatre, 840 Baldwin Ave. in DeFuniak Springs. Tickets are $15/adults and $12/students 22 and under. Call 892-9494 or email info@fcweb.org.

Rotary Club of South Walton

The Rotary Club of South Walton meets for breakfast at 7:30 a.m. at the Embassy Suites, Scenic Hwy. 98 in Miramar Beach. Visiting Rotarians and their guests are welcome. Call 267-2929.

Thursday thread therapy

Needlers, knitters, crocheters and others come for free therapy from 4-6 p.m. on the porch at Yards N Yarn, 3770 Co. Hwy. 3280 in Freeport. Call 880-6404.

Friday, May 11

Songs on the Lawn

David Ryan Harris and Michelle Malone perform one-night-only from 6-10 p.m. at the Outdoor Listening Room at Ruskin Place Park in Seaside during ArtsQuest. All proceeds benefit the Cultural Arts Alliance of Walton County. Tickets range from tables to individual tickets at $30/person. Call 622-5970 or visit www.ArtsQuestFlorida.com.

ArtsQuest

The 24th Annual ArtsQuest Fine Arts Music Festival will be held from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. May 11-13 in Seaside. International artists will exhibit in more than a dozen mediums, along with live music, artist workshops and demos, KidZone and food and beverage options.

Hilda McDonald

Pianist Hilda McDonald plays mellow melodies at 6 p.m. at Christiano’s in Santa Rosa Beach.

Saturday, May 12

Biophilia Center

Richard Fowlkes presents information about sea turtles of Northwest Florida and what we can do to protect them at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. at the Biophilia Center in Freeport. Standard admission rates apply. Call 835-1824.

Princess and Pirate Ball

Shelter House will host its Princess and Pirate Ball from 5-8 p.m. at Linkside at the Sandestin Golf Beach Resort. The family event includes dinner, dancing, treasure hunts and costume contest for children. Tickets are $99/family of four, $40/adult and $20/children. Tickets are $10 more at the door. To purchase tickets, call 243-1201 or email shelterhousenwfl.org.

Food drive

The 20th Annual National Association of Letter Carriers “Stamp Out Hunger” Food Drive will be held and help local food banks restock their pantries. Harvest House in Destin is a benefactor of this drive. Non-perishable and non-expired food items should be placed in a bag next to your mailbox early the morning of May 12 to be picked up by letter carriers.

Florida Trail Association

A 3.8-mile newcomers and kids hike at 8:30 a.m. around Karick Lake near Baker. Call 651-0902.

Ranger open house

The 6th Ranger Training Battalion will host an open house from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Camp Rudder near the intersection of Ranger Camp Road and Lewis Turner Boulevard in Fort Walton Beach. Events include a snake and reptile show, ranger squad demonstration, parachute jump, combatives demonstration, and down pilot/hoist demonstration. All proceeds benefit Gator Activity Fund and Emerald Coast Fisher House.

Book sale

The Friends of the Walton/DeFuniak Springs Library will hold a book sale from 8:30 a.m. to noon at the Walton County Fairgrounds. Pack as many books as possible into a plastic grocery bag for just $2. Bags will be provided.

Mother’s Day Extravaganza

Doors open at 7 p.m. at the Walton High School Auditorium for the Kenny Byrd and Friends Comedy and Variety Show featuring comedian Tie Bo, Bill Fowler, and ventriloquist Kenny Byrd. Refreshments will be served. Tickets are $10/adults and $6/children. A portion of the proceeds will go to the Matrix Community Outreach Center.

Spring concert

Catch the wave … ride the 30A Dancewave at 1 and 4 p.m. May 12 and at 1 p.m. May 13 in Seaside at the 2012 ArtsQuest Fine Arts Festival. Come and watch the magic as 40 children capture your hearts while performing their Annual Spring Concert to songs “By the Seaside.” Featured will be the Seaside School Dancewave Dance Team and 30A Dancewave’s Junior Company. 

West Indies Market

The West Indies Market, with paintings, sculpture, pottery, handcrafted jewelry and furniture, will be held from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. May 12-13.

Women’s Luxury Leisure Travel Goes Solo

And though they can’t redesign their ships, some small-ship companies including Uniworld and International Expeditions have done away with single supplements fee on more than 25 Amazon and Galapagos small-ship cruises in 2012 (they will announce dates with no single supplement for 2013 soon). For those who can sail on those dates, it’s even better than a single cabin, because you get a two-person space instead of a stripped-down single berth.

And finally, a nod to the Grand Velas all-inclusive resorts in Riviera Nayarit and Riviera Maya for a program that has nothing to do with solo travel, but takes a step toward busting the myth of “only two-parent families can afford proper vacations.” The Single Parent Rate Promotion not only waives the single supplement fee for single parents with kids, but also cuts the child’s rate by 50%. If there’s a second child in the same accommodation, it’s only an extra $87 per night (at Riviera Nayarit) or $99 (Riviera Maya). This promotion is valid through December 19, 2012, because while Mother’s Day comes only once a year, a mother’s love is every day. (Photo courtesy of International Expeditions)

Royal Jet partners with Eden Luxury Group

Royal Jet has launched a
luxury travel division at the Arabian Travel Market 2012. The division is a new
partnership with the Eden Luxury Group.

The signing ceremony was
attended by Shane O’Hare, president and chief executive, Royal Jet and Paul
Beacall, co-founder and chief executive of Eden Luxury Group.

“Our new partnership will
offer affluent travellers a wider choice and greater flexibility when booking
holidays,” said Shane O’Hare. “Today’s luxury traveller is demanding comfort,
personal and intuitive service and exclusive experiences, and our new venture
will focus on delivering those needs in a growing market.

“Royal Jet has been a market
leader in the private jet sector, and the luxury vacations division will
protect and grow Royal Jet’s position with further growth. This will also
enable us to deliver growth by entering new markets and creating new products
that presently do not exist in the region.”

Beacall said: “Creating
Royal Jet Luxury Vacations will further add value to Royal Jet’s already
extensive portfolio. Eden Luxury Group’s collection of luxury hotels and travel
products is designed by a highly experienced team of travel experts who
carefully select properties based on a rigorous methodology, ensuring the
highest standards of service and professionalism are available to a clientele
as discerning as that of Royal Jet’s.”

“The hotels we offer are
high-profile properties, with strong personalities that can either be city
centre, chic resorts, villas, ski chalets, yachts or private hideaways. They
attract guests who are looking for properties with attention to detail and
exceptional service levels, restaurants serving eclectic cuisine run by
celebrity chefs, spa retreats and the like,” Beacall concluded.

“ATM is the perfect platform
for Royal Jet to showcase its range of services and for us to have signed this
agreement,” said O’Hare. “The event consistently garners interest from our key
clientele internationally, such as high net worth individuals and tour
operators, brokers, the business and entertainment world, the MICE market and
the media.”

Royal Jet launches luxury vacations division at Arabian Travel Market 2012

The division is a new partnership with one of the UK’s largest independent luxury travel providers, Eden Luxury Group. This partnership will add value to Royal Jet’s present air charter client base and create a total luxury travel solution for those seeking vacations outside of the present charter business.

The signing ceremony was attended by Shane O’Hare, President and CEO, Royal Jet and Paul Beacall, Co-founder and CEO of Eden Luxury Group.

“Our new partnership will offer affluent travellers a wider choice and greater flexibility when booking holidays,” said Shane O’Hare.

“Today’s luxury traveller is demanding comfort, personal and intuitive service and exclusive experiences, and our new venture will focus on delivering those needs in a growing market.

“Royal Jet has been a market leader in the private jet sector, and the luxury vacations division will protect and grow Royal Jet’s position with further growth. This will also enable us to deliver growth by entering new markets and creating new products that presently do not exist in the region.”

Royal Jet has gathered momentum over the last eight years, with year-on-year growth, largely due to the diversification of its business offering, the realisation of Abu Dhabi as a luxury destination and strategically vital private aviation hub.

Beacall said: “Creating Royal Jet Luxury Vacations will further add value to Royal Jet’s already extensive portfolio. Eden Luxury Group’s collection of luxury hotels and travel products is designed by a highly experienced team of travel experts who carefully select properties based on a rigorous methodology, ensuring the highest standards of service and professionalism are available to a clientele as discerning as that of Royal Jet’s.

“The hotels we offer are high-profile properties, with strong personalities that can either be city centre, chic resorts, villas, ski chalets, yachts or private hideaways. They attract guests who are looking for properties with attention to detail and exceptional service levels, restaurants serving eclectic cuisine run by celebrity chefs, spa retreats and the like.”

Royal Jet will be able to offer these bespoke holidays to its customers this summer.

“ATM is the perfect platform for Royal Jet to showcase its range of services and for us to have signed this agreement,” said O’Hare.

“The event consistently garners interest from our key clientele internationally, such as high net worth individuals and tour operators, brokers, the business and entertainment world, the MICE market and the media.”

Royal Jet is one of the few private aviation companies exhibiting at ATM and is partnered with the Abu Dhabi Tourism Culture Authority on their stand in Hall 2.

Τα Asian Spa Ayurvedic Retreats & Resorts ξεκινούν την εαρινή και καλοκαιρινή …

Ο όμιλος Asian Spa Ayurvedic City Retreat σας προσκαλεί στα μοναδικά Asian Spa Ayurvedic Retreats Resorts, όπου μπορείτε να απολαύστε μοναδικές θεραπείες spa, σε επιλεγμένους ελληνικούς προορισμούς μιας και δεν θα μπορούσε να υπάρξει καταλληλότερο φυσικό περιβάλλον από αυτό της Ελλάδας, για να γίνει πράξη η φιλοσοφία των Asian Spa Ayurvedic Retreat Resorts.

Στο δημοφιλέστερο νησί του Ιονίου την Κέρκυρα, στις λαμπερές Σπέτσες, την ιστορική Ρόδο αλλά και στην παγκόσμιας ομορφιάς Σαντορίνη, τα Asian Spa Retreats Resorts, ανταποκρίνονται με μοναδική ποιότητα στις υψηλές απαιτήσεις των υπηρεσιών ευεξίας.

Στις Σπέτσες, στο Posidoneion Grand, σημείο αναφοράς των Σπετσών, το Asian Spa Resort λειτουργεί διατηρώντας την παράδοση των υψηλών standard ποιότητας των θεραπειών σε ένα μοναδικό περιβάλλον. Κάντε μια βουτιά στην πισίνα του spa μέσα σε ένα ήσυχο μεσογειακό κήπο και στη συνέχεια, αφεθείτε στην ικανότητα και την εμπειρία των θεραπευτών σε ένα ταξίδι ευημερίας και αναζωογόνησης στο σώμα, το μυαλό και το πνεύμα.

Στη Σαντορίνη, σε δύο ξενοδοχεία της Luxury Collection της Starwood Hotels and Resorts, Vedema και Mystique, τα Asian Spa Resorts σας προσφέρουν θεραπείες σχεδιασμένες να αντανακλούν την ομορφιά και την ηρεμία του μοναδικού αυτού τόπου. Στο Vedema, οι εγκαταστάσεις του Spa τηρούν τη μινιμαλιστική κυκλαδίτικη αρχιτεκτονική, ενώ στο Mystique θα απολάυσετε υψηλής ποιότητας θεραπείες με θέα που κόβει την ανάσα, στην παγκοσμίου φήμης Καλντέρα.

Στην Ρόδο, στο πεντάστερο ξενοδοχείο Lindian Village, απολαύστε τις μοναδικές αγιουρβεδικές θεραπείες του Asian Spa Ayurvedic Retreat δίπλα στη θάλασσα και χαλαρώστε στα χέρια των ειδικών θεραπευτών μας.

Στην Κέρκυρα, απολαύστε τις μοναδικές αγιουβερδικές θεραπείες του Asian Spa Ayurvedic Retreat σε τρεις εκλεκτούς προορισμούς του νησιού. Στο Grand Mediterraneo, θα βρείτε ένα μοναδικό Spa το οποίο προσφέρει ό,τι καλύτερο έχει να παρουσιάσει η Αγιουρβέδα αλλά και οι δυτικού τύπου θεραπείες. Στην περιοχή Γουβιά, τo Day Spa διαθέτει ατομικά δωμάτια θεραπειών της Ανατολικής φιλοσοφίας της Αγιουρβέρδας όπου μπορείτε να απολάυσετε μια ξεχωριστή αναζωογονητική και ανυψωτική εμπειρία. Τέλος, για όσους επιθυμούν διακοπές πολυτέλειας και υπηρεσιών υψηλών προδιαγραφών, όπου οι θεραπείες αγιουρβέδας αποτελούν μέρος των καθημερινών προσφερόμενων υπηρεσιών, οι δύο ανεξάρτητες βίλες Κommeno Retreats είναι ο απόλυτος προορισμός.

Ο Όμιλος Asian Spa Ayurvedic City Retreat είναι από τις πιο αναγνωρισμένες αλυσίδες spa στην Ελληνική αγορά και συνεργάζεται πλέον με τρεις από τις μεγαλύτερες διεθνείς ξενοδοχειακές αλυσίδες: την Hyatt, την InterContinental και τη Starwood. Δραστηριοποιείται με επιτυχία και υψηλή ποιότητα παρεχόμενων υπηρεσιών στην Αθήνα, στη Θεσσαλονίκη και σε διεθνούς εμβέλειας Ελληνικούς τουριστικούς προορισμούς (Σπέτσες, Κέρκυρα, Ρόδος και Σαντορίνη). Τα συγκριτικά του πλεονεκτήματα είναι η πολυετής επαγγελματική εμπειρία των στελεχών του και το υψηλό επίπεδο στην ποιότητα των παρεχόμενων θεραπειών. Ο Όμιλος Asian Spa Ayurvedic City Retreat, παραμένοντας πιστός στην πελατοκεντρική του φιλοσοφία, έχει ως στόχο την παροχή μιας ξεχωριστής και προσωποποιημένης εμπειρίας spa σε κάθε πελάτη με υψηλά standard ποιότητας και επαγγελματισμού.

Ο Όμιλος Asian Spa Ayurvedic City Retreat συνολικά διαχειρίζεται και λειτουργεί:

το I-Spa στο Ξενοδοχείο Athenaeum InterContinental στην Αθήνα
το Asian Spa City Retreat στην Αθήνα, στη Νέα Φιλοθέη
το Asian Spa City Retreat στο Ξενοδοχείο Hyatt στη Θεσσαλονίκη
το Asian Spa Resort του Ξενοδοχείου Grand Mediterraneo στην Κέρκυρα
το Asian Spa Resort του Poseidonion Grand Hotel στις Σπέτσες
το Asian Spa Resort του Ξενοδοχείου Mystique της Starwood στη Σαντορίνη
το Asian Spa Resort του Ξενοδοχείου Vedema Resort της Starwood στη Σαντορίνη
το Asian Spa Ayurvedic Retreat στην περιοχή Γουβιά στην Κέρκυρα
το Asian Spa Ayurvedic Retreat στο Ξενοδοχείο Lindian Village στη Ρόδο

Related posts:

1. Tην Asian Spa Ayurvedic City Retreat επέλεξαν η Starwood στη Σαντορίνη το Posidoneion Grand Hotel στις Σπέτσες
2. Δύο θεραπευτές παγκοσμίου φήμης στα Asian Spa Ayurvedic City Retreat
3. Εξαιρετικά αναγκαία για την επιβίωση του ελληνικού τουρισμού η διατήρηση του ειδικού καθεστώτος ΦΠΑ στους νησιωτικούς τουριστικούς προορισμούς
4. Καινούρια online εφαρμογή καλεί τους ταξιδιώτες να βαθμολογούν τους προορισμούς της LH σε δέκα κατηγορίες
5. Μηνύματα υποστήριξης της Ελλάδας από πολιτικούς και τουριστικούς παράγοντες στην έκθεση ΙΤΒ του Βερολίνου

Spahub.com Continues to Expand Website with a New Health Category Section

We have already seen quite a rise in interest in the Health Spa category since its addition to the site..

San Francisco, California (PRWEB) April 30, 2012

In observance of April’s National Health Wellness Month, Spahub.com has added a new health spa category to their site.

“Therapeutic spa treatments, weight loss programs, fitness and stress reduction classes, and a full menu of healthy cuisine are just a few of the benefits of attending a health spa,” says Mark Verkhovski, a rep for Spahub.com. “We’ve made it easy for people to quickly search through the health spa retreats and resorts, read reviews, and find the best health spas.”

Health spas are unique in that they tend to be a destination event. When addressing overall health, the facility must incorporate diet, exercise, natural therapies, as well as customized treatments into the spa experience. This holistic approach has been credited with healthy weight loss results and has been very popular for luxury group getaways.

“We have already seen quite a rise in interest in the Health Spa category since its addition to the site,” says Verkhovski. “Especially since the launch of the new category came right in time for Health Wellness Month, we’ve seen thousands of unique visitors flock to the Health Spa section for resources.”

The purpose of National Health and Wellness Month is to educate the public about health risks and promote healthy living through exercise, lifestyle and diet.

Through Spahub.com, guests can search the extensive database of destination spas and explore and try new health spas in United States and Canada. Spahub.com also provides maps, phone numbers and links corresponding to any of the listed health spas to significantly reduce search time.

About Spahub:

Spahub’s mission is to create the largest Day, Medical, Health and Getaway Spa Directory in the world. They strive to make the site a comprehensive place to learn about the different services spas provide. The goal is to provide every visitor an effective tool to quickly locate and explore a spa’s amenities and treatments before taking one step out the door.

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Motorcycle Touring Company for Women Adds Tour Dates for 2012 Season

Sedona AZ (April 27, 2012) – Biker Babe Tours, a motorcycle touring company for women, has now added additional tours throughout the spring and summer 2012 riding season. The company, launched this year in Sedona, AZ provides full-service, three and five-day motorcycle specialty tours for small groups of women and markets to women riders from Arizona, Nevada, and California. The company’s first tour, the Sedona Spirit Tour, is slated for May 10-13, 2012 in Sedona, AZ. Additional tours, such as the Sedona Spa Tour, the Freedom Tour, The Shopping Tour, and the Fall Colors Tour are now scheduled from June through October, 2012.

Biker Babe Tours serves women riders who bring their own bikes and protective gear. Tours are conducted throughout northern Arizona, with plans in place to expand their operations to rides in southern Utah, Nevada, and California by years two and three. Tour packages include all lodging, meals, water, and a special treat, such as a massage, facial, manicure, pedicure, cooking class, crafting class, or adventure activity like a helicopter or hot-air-balloon ride. Participants also get a tour T-shirt and thrilling guided rides on roads that are perfect for motorcycles. Package themes include: day-spa, shopping, gourmet food, National Park, spiritual sites, and many others.

Lead, CPR-and-AED-trained Tour Guide and CEO, Liz Casey says, “People are coming to Sedona in droves for vacations and spiritual or spa retreats anyway. It makes perfect sense for the company to try and connect with women riders who are coming here for other reasons. Sedona offers unparalleled experiences such as hiking among its world-famous red rock formations, spiritual services, such as yoga and personal empowerment retreats, world-renowned, gourmet restaurants, and first-rate spas. Adding these additional tours allows us to connect with and serve women motorcyclists from all over this great country who area also interested in Sedona’s other specialties.”

As a long-time, highly experienced guide, Ms. Casey’s dream has been to share, with other women, the freedom, joy, and excitement of motorcycling. Combining the emotional and spiritual aspects of women’s retreats with the excitement of touring is the company’s specialty. Recognizing that women ride differently than men, Casey set out to establish a safe, nurturing, and supportive environment where women could experience the benefits of the sport together.

Casey goes on to say: “The best part of this business is witnessing the new friendships that develop between women from all walks of life. Sure, most of us are middle-aged and married, but we come from all over and have all kinds of differing life paths, all kinds of different stories. But, with motorcycling, we have this one core activity in common, so women bikers have few social barriers to overcome. We are immediately united by our mutual passion and so supportive of one another. We all love this sport, deeply, and we all had to get over our fears and get through the learning curve to earn our place out there on our own machines; riding is such a remarkable bonding mechanism. I just love being able to create this space and energy with other women. I have the best job on the planet.”

Biker Babe Tours, Inc., a motorcycle touring company for women, conducts full-service tour retreats during the months of April through October. For more information, visit their Web site at www.BikerBabeTours.com or call the office directly at 928.632.2700.

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Upcoming Events and Entertainment 4-28

All area codes are 850 unless specified.
 

Biophilia Center

Solve the Mystery: Tracks, Skulls, and Furs — Who Do They Belong To? at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. May 5 at the Biophilia Center in Freeport.
Standard admission rates apply. Call 835-1824.

Corks N’ Canvases

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwest Florida is seeking corporate sponsors for their annual Corks N’ Canvases event from 6-9 p.m. May 5 at Warren Averett O’Sullivan Creel in Fort Walton Beach. This event is Big Brothers Big Sisters signature fundraising event in Okaloosa and Walton Counties and features a wine tasting, heavy hors d’oeuvres by Clemenza’s, live entertainment, and a silent auction featuring vacation packages along the Gulf Coast, restaurant gift certificates, spa retreats and of course, artwork by the some of the area’s most well known artists.

Sponsorship levels range from $250-$2,000. If you are interested in sponsoring this event or to purchase tickets, contact Courtney Humbaugh, director, Marketing Development, at chumbaugh@bbbsnwfl.org or at 433-KIDS (5437). 

Energy Conservation Discovery Expo

The City of DeFuniak Springs will host the first Energy Conservation Discovery Expo from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. May 5 at the Caboose on Circle Drive in DeFuniak Springs. The event is free and will feature hands-on activities and live demonstrations with field experts available. Call 892-8500.

Cooked To Order

Saint Agatha’s Episcopal Church, 150 Circle Dr. in DeFuniak Springs, will host a breakfast, Cooked To Order, from 7-11 a.m. May 5. Cost is $4.50 adults and $2.50 children under 10. Proceeds benefit the building and grounds fund.

Cinco de Mayo celebration

Cantina Laredo Gourmet Mexican Food presents their annual Cinco de Mayo celebration from 2-11 p.m. May 5 at Grand Park in Grand Boulevard and at the restaurant. Enjoy authentic Latin music by Tropisound, a six-piece salsa band, dancing and contests. A salsa dancing contest, face painting, crafts, door prizes, food, drinks and displays by various Grand Boulevard will be included. The event is free. Dora the Explorer will meet children and pose for pictures from 5-8 p.m. Call 654-5649.

Florida Trail Association

• May 6: A 7.5-mile day hike at 8:30 a.m. on the Juniper Creek Trail in Santa Rosa County. Call 723-5112.

• May 12: A 3.8-mile newcomers and kids hike at 8:30 a.m. around Karick Lake near Baker. Call 651-0902.

• May 19: Bring your kayak or canoe at 9 a.m. for a paddle down Shoal River near Crestview with a picnic following.  Call 682-6098.

• May 22: Monthly meeting at 6 p.m. at Ed’s Hometown Seafood Steaks in Niceville. Call 654-1172.

• May 26-27: A one-night woman’s backpacking trip. Call 729-0344.

NRDA meeting

Walton County will host an eight county Natural Resource Damage Assessment meeting from 1-3 p.m. May 7 at the South Walton Annex. An update on the negotiation process with BP and a status report on projects will be given. The public is welcome to attend.

Meals in a Snap

The Walton County Health Department and the University of Florida IFAS Extension are working together to offer interactive and tasty cooking demonstration classes from 6-7 p.m. at the Walton County Extension office, 732 N.9th St. in DeFuniak Springs.  The cost is $5 per class or $20 for the series. Pre-registration required at 892-8172.

Topics are:

• May 8: Mexican Fiesta

• June 12: Perfect Pizza Party

Wednesday Night Concert Series

The Village of Baytowne Wharf presents the Wednesday Night Concert Series from 7-9 p.m. in the Events Plaza. Call 267-8186.

• May 9: Honey Island Swamp Band

• May 16: Forrest Williams Band

• May 23: John Nemeth

• May 30: Biscuit Miller the Mix

Seagrove Garden Club

The Seagrove Garden Club will meet at 10 a.m. May 9 for its annual Garden Tour on 30A. Lunch follows at Café 30A. Cost is $18-$23 and $5 more for guests. Reservations required at 267-9586.

Conference for Writers

Writers in all stages of development are invited to attend a conference May 9-11 in Rosemary Beach. Morning workshops, craft classes, and flash fiction boot camp, afternoon lectures and panels, and nightly receptions and readings will be offered. Registration fee is $300. Student rate is $200. Visit www.conferenceforwriters.com.

Florida Chautauqua Theatre

The Florida Chautauqua presents Disney’s “Beauty and the Beast” at 7 p.m. May 10-12 and at 2:30 p.m. May 13 at the Theatre, 840 Baldwin Ave. in DeFuniak Springs. Tickets are $15/adults and $12/students 22 and under. Call 892-9494 or email info@fcweb.org.

Mattie Kelly Arts Center

The Mattie Kelly Arts Center at Northwest Florida State College in Niceville presents Mel Brooks musical Young Frankenstein at 7:30 p.m. May 10. Call 729-6000 or visit the Box Office between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Monday to Friday for ticket information.

Princess and Pirate Ball

Shelter House will host its Princess and Pirate Ball from 5-8 p.m. May 12 at Linkside at the Sandestin Golf Beach Resort. The family event includes dinner, dancing, treasure hunts and costume contest for children. Tickets are $99/family of four, $40/adult and $20/children. Tickets are $10 more at the door. To purchase tickets, call 243-1201 or email shelterhousenwfl.org.

Ranger open house

The 6th Ranger Training Battalion will host an open house from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. May 12 at Camp Rudder near the intersection of Ranger Camp Road and Lewis Turner Boulevard in Fort Walton Beach. Events include a snake and reptile show, ranger squad demonstration, parachute jump, combatives demonstration, and down pilot/hoist demonstration. All proceeds benefit Gator Activity Fund and Emerald Coast Fisher House.

West Indies Market

The West Indies Market, with paintings, sculpture, pottery, hand-crafted jewelry and furniture, will be held from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. May 12-13, June 9-10, and July 14-15. If interested in becoming a vendor, visit www.hilltopproductionsinc.com.

Solaris

Celebrate Mother’s Day with a lunch cruise on the Choctawhatchee Bay from 12-2 p.m. May 13 on the Solaris. Boarding will be from 11:15 to 11:55 at Sandestin’s Baytowne Marina. Casual dress. Adults are $55, children 3-10, $25 and infants 0–2, $15. Seating is limited. Call 650-2519.

Sean Dietrich

Sean Dietrich and his group play Wednesday nights at Christiano’s Ristorante on U.S. 98 in Santa Rosa Beach. Call 267-2185.

Marie’s Bistro

Singer/guitarist Bill Evett performs from 7-11 p.m. Fridays at Marie’s Bistro on 30A in Blue Mountain Beach. DJ Vladi begins DJ-ing dance music and fun at 8:30 p.m. Saturdays; Karaoke takes center stage on Wednesdays; Kelsey Ann performs Thursdays; and Danice Lowery on Tuesdays.

Storytelling workshop

Coastal Library Storytelling Workshops will be held at 4 p.m. every Monday in the community room for elementary age children grades 3 and up. Storyteller Susie Arnold will present the art of storytelling with puppets and props inviting young people to “tell” stories. Call 267-2809 or email tholinda@co.walton.fl.us for more information.

Thursday thread therapy

Needlers, knitters, crocheters and others come for free therapy from 4-6 p.m. Thursdays on the porch at Yards N Yarn, 3770 Co. Hwy. 3280 in Freeport. Call 880-6404.

Seaside Farmers Market

Get your pick of fresh produce, baked goods, dairy products, native plants and other unique offerings during Market on Saturday mornings from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the Amphitheatre behind Raw Juicy. Enjoy special cooking demos and activities.

Emerald Coast Pipes Drums

All performing and student bagpipers, former and current marching band snare, tenor, and bass drummers are welcome to join the Emerald Coast Pipes Drums in Okaloosa, Walton and Santa Rosa Counties. The group meets at 6 p.m. Thursdays at First United Methodist Church in Niceville, 214 Partin Drive, for beginner bagpiping classes and 6:30 p.m. for rehearsals for performing players. Email ecppesanddrums@cox.net or call 243-2879.

Amateur Radio Club

The Chautauqua Amateur Radio Club of DeFuniak Springs/Walton County meets at 6:30 p.m. the last Tuesday of every month at McLean’s Restaurant near I10 and 331 South. This club welcomes new and old Ham Radio operators. There are no business meetings on these Tuesdays. We have classes and a great time together. Call 892-2562 or email kj4jah@arrl.net.

Rotary Club of South Walton

The Rotary Club of South Walton meets for breakfast at 7:30 a.m. each Thursday morning at the Embassy Suites, Scenic Hwy. 98 in Miramar Beach. Visiting Rotarians and their guests are welcome. Call 267-2929.

Herman Lodge

Herman Lodge #108 Free and Accepted Masons will meet at 7 p.m. first and third Tuesdays of each month on Madison Street in Freeport. Call 835-2314.

Eastern Star

The Order of the Eastern Star #281 meets at 7:30 p.m. the first and third Fridays of each month at Herman Lodge on Madison Street in Freeport. Call 835-2314.

Hilda McDonald

Pianist Hilda McDonald plays mellow melodies at 6 p.m. Fridays at Christiano’s in Santa Rosa Beach.

Biophilia Center

The E.O. Wilson Biophilia Center will be open to the public from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturdays through May 31. Admission is $5/person, $2/children 6-12, and children 5 and under are free. Under 16 must be accompanied by an adult.

SHRM Chapter

A Society of Human Resource Management Chapter in Walton County will meet at 8 a.m. the first Thursday of the month at TJ’s Table in Freeport. The group is open to all individuals involved in any aspect of human resources. Email rpazik@jobsplus02.com or call 892-8668, ext. 215. 

JobsPlus Mobile stops

Stops for the JobsPlus One-Stop Centers will be held from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. the first Thursday of the month at Freeport City Hall; from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. the fourth Wednesday at Silver Sands Outlet; and from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. the fourth Thursday at the South Walton Library. Jobseekers will be able to register in the EmployFlorida Marketplace database enabling them to search and apply for open positions and apply for unemployment compensation.

Town Planters

The Town Planters of Freeport will meet at 7 p.m. the first Tuesday of the month at the Blount House on Kylea Laird Road. Call 835-5611.

Stories by the Sea

Join the Seaside Repertory Theatre weekdays for a one of a kind storytelling experience for children of all ages at 3:30 p.m. at the Gateway Lyceum Arch.

ANNIKA Friends

Country music performer Darius Rucker will headline a charity concert at 7 p.m. May 13 on the North Park lawn at the Grand Boulevard at Sandestin as an exciting finale to the inaugural ANNIKA Friends at Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort. General admission tickets go on sale Dec. 1 at www.AnnikaandFriends.com.

A Passion for Art 

The Cultural Arts Alliance of Walton County’s newest A+ Art exhibit features artwork by committee members in an exhibit titled A Passion for Art. The works of eight CAA member artists will be on exhibit through May 15 at the South Walton Campus of Northwest Florida State College. Call 622-5970 or email info@culturalartsalliance.com.

Book sale

Friends of the Walton County Coastal Library will hold a book sale from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. May 19 in the community room at the Coastal Branch Library. As a new member to the Friends, shop the pre-sale from 3:30-5 p.m. May 18 with a tax-deductible contribution membership of $10. Call 267-2809.

Marvel of Flight

The second annual DeFuniak Springs Fly-In, with airplane rides, helicopter rides, car show, R/C aircraft and family activities, will take place from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. May 19 at the DeFuniak Springs Municipal Airport. Admission is free.

Pansy Breakfast

The Emerald Coast Alumni Chapter of Delta Delta Delta Sorority will host a Pansy Breakfast for all Tri Delts at 10:30 a.m. May 19. Bring a breakfast dish to share. For reservations, information and directions, call 678-7743 or email dnklitke@cox.net. Dues are also due at this time.

Lakeside Concert Series

Mary Brigid Roman, associate professor of harp at FSU and principal harpist with the Northwest Florida Symphony Orchestra, will present a solo harp program at 3 p.m. May 20 in the main sanctuary of the First United Methodist Church, 88 Circle Drive in DeFuniank Springs. A reception will follow. The event is free with a collection taken to be used for future concerts.

County workshops

The Walton Board of County Commissioners will hold a public workshop focusing on recycling at 4 p.m. May 24 at the Walton County Courthouse Annex, 1 Coastal Centre Blvd. in Santa Rosa Beach.

Seaside Rep

“River Rat and Cat”, a free comedy for children, can be seen at 6:30 p.m. Thursdays, May 31-Aug. 9, at the Alys Beach Amphitheatre.

“Beanie and the Bamboozling Book Machine”, a free fantasy for children, can be seen at 6:30 p.m. Mondays, May 21-Aug. 13 in Seaside.

The fairytale “The Emperor’s New Clothes” can be seen at 6:30 p.m. May 29-Aug. 10 in Rosemary Beach.

WCSO class

The Walton County Sheriff’s Office will hold free Rape Aggression Defense classes designed specifically for women, ages 13 and up, from 5-9 p.m. May 23-25 at the South Walton substation, 133 Sheriff Drive in Santa Rosa Beach. Call to sign up at 892-8186 or email jjordan@waltonso.org.

Star Gazing by the Shore

Volunteers from the Northwest Florida Astronomy Association will present a star gazing program from 7-10 p.m. May 25 at Henderson Beach State Park in Destin. All ages are invited.  Program is included in park admission. Arrive before sunset. Call 837-7550 for sunset time.

Groovin’ on the Green

A free concert with Bittersweet will be held from 7 to 9 p.m. May 27 on the Village Green in Carillon Beach. Call 234-7819.

• June 4: Jones Company

• June 11: Sticks Stones

• June 18: Tidewater

• June 25: Latitude 29

• July 4: Emerald County Line

• July 9: Cabo Rock

• July 16: Tony Vegas Band

• July 23: Red Hot Mama the Alligator Daddies

• July 30: Legacy

• Aug. 6: 12 Gage the Deep Blues Band

• Aug. 13: Steve Wiggins Band

• Aug. 20: Sticks Stones

• Aug. 27: One Jamaican Reggae

• Sept. 2: The Rowdies

Kick-off Summer Concert

Bring a blanket or low-rise chair and enjoy free music with The Dirty Guv’nahs at 8 p.m. on the East Long Green in Rosemary Beach.

Moonlight Movies

Gather under the stars for free Hollywood classics and new releases at 8:15 p.m. May 31, June 7, 14, 21, and 28, July 5, 12, 19 and 26 and Aug. 2 and 9 on the Western Green in Rosemary Beach. Bring a blanket and lawn chair. Concessions available.

JUNE 2012

Sunset Cinema

Grab a blanket and find a spot on the lawn at 8 p.m. June 7 at The Village of Baytowne Wharf at Sandestin to watch “Cars 2”.

• June 14:  Spy Kids 4: All the Time in the World

• June 21: The Muppets

• June 28:  Puss in Boots

• July 5:  The Smurfs

• July 12:  Happy Feet 2

• July 19: The Zookeeper

• July 26:  Kung Fu Panda 2: The Kaboom of Doom

• Aug. 2:  Mars Needs Moms

• Aug. 9: Winnie the Pooh

Grit Grace

Learn about this year’s production, meet the playwright and director, cast and crew at a kick off party at 6 p.m. June 14 at the Florida Chautauqua Hall of Brotherhood in DeFuniak Springs.

Walk Her Way

Men, women and children of all ages are invited to don high heels for Walk Her Way beginning at 5:30 p.m. June 15 at Rosemary Beach’s Town Center. Sponsored by Rosemary Beach Foundation, this one-mile strut aims to raise awareness of domestic violence with a portion of proceeds benefiting Shelter House. Stick around for the after-party featuring Heat and The Zydeco Gents. Advance registration is $30 for adults and $15 for children under 12 and includes a T-shirt. Registration the day of the walk will be an additional $5 per person.

Starlight Ballet

Enjoy free ballet featuring the Northwest Florida Ballet and guest dancers from around the country at 7:30 p.m. June 24 at St. Augustine Green in Rosemary Beach. On-lawn seating.

SEPTEMBER

Shop for a Job

Silver Sands Factory Stores will host “Shop for a Job” from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sept. 26 and Oct. 24. Many designer companies are currently hiring, from part-time sales and stock associates to full-time managers.  Complete a profile sheet at Shopper Services. Call 654-9771.