SeaLife Unveils New Sea Dragon Fluoro-Dual Beam

SeaLife introduced their first fluorescent photo-video-dive light, the Sea Dragon Fluoro-Dual Beam, at the DEMA (Dive Equipment & Marketing Association) tradeshow in mid-November. Favored by divers for spectacular shows of color and impressive nighttime displays of emitted energy, fluorescence or "fluoro" diving with specialized lighting has become popular.   

Here's how fluoro diving works: The light's royal blue LEDs emit blue light in the range of 450-460nm, which is in the approximate frequency range to "excite" the fish, reef and organisms into making a light-filled energy response. The new SeaLife Sea Dragon Fluoro-Dual Beam adds a finely tuned and proprietary dichroic filter that pinpoints the exact light frequency so as to get the highest energy response from your underwater subjects, revealing vibrant fluorescent colors of underwater creatures. The Fluoro-Dual Beam also offers an 800-lumen white-light spot beam, so divers can also use it as a dive light to guide them to favorite fluoro-viewing areas.

The Sea Dragon Fluoro-Dual Beam features two switchable beams that easily transform it from a blue fluoro 65-degree floodlight to a white, 800-lumen 15-degree concentrated beam with a push of a button. A rechargeable lithium ion 7.4V, 3400 mAh, 25Wh battery delivers power for two continuous hours at 100-percent fluoro emission. With its single-button operation, the light can quickly adjust between four brightness modes: 100% fluoro flood, 50% fluoro flood, 100% white spot, and 50% white spot. Additionally, the Fluoro-Dual Beam has an emergency signal mode that is activated by holding the power button in for four seconds. 

Two universal barrier filters are included to improve your experience in underwater fluorescent viewing and imaging. The mask filter fits over your dive mask to filter out the light's residual blue light — it's the response from the sea creature you want to see, not the blue light. The second filter attaches to any underwater camera with a lens diameter up to 47mm. The viewer wears a yellow mask filter so they see only the fish or sea organism's emitted energy, not the Sea Dragon Fluoro-Dual beam's blue light.  A yellow camera lens filter also serves the same function on an underwater camera.

The Sea Dragon Fluoro-Dual Beam is depth rated down to 330 feet (100 m). The dual silicone O-ring battery component is independent from the Sea Dragon's electronics, so the light will not be permanently damaged if water accidentally intrudes.

The Fluoro-Dual Beam includes a Flex-Connect Single Tray, Grip and Sea Dragon Ball Joint Adapter (SL995) that connects the light to any underwater camera using the 1"/25mm ball joint mounting system. Like all Sea Dragon lights and strobe, the Sea Dragon Fluoro-Dual Beam can easily be expanded with Flex-Connect trays, grips, and mounting accessories.

The Sea Dragon Fluoro-Dual Beam will be available for shipment in January 2017 at the following price:

SL673

Sea Dragon Fluoro-Dual Beam (Includes Flex-Connect Grip, Single Tray, Flex-Connect Sea Dragon Ball Joint Adapter, mask and camera barrier filters)

$499.95

About SeaLife:
SeaLife Underwater Cameras are made by Pioneer Research in Moorestown, NJ and were first introduced in 1993. In 2000, SeaLife developed the world's first digital underwater camera. In 2007, SeaLife developed the first non-housed digital underwater camera, and in 2013 SeaLife introduced the powerful Sea Dragon Lighting system and its innovative Flex-Connect tray, grip, arm and accessory system. By 2014, SeaLife introduced the Micro HD, the world's first permanently sealed underwater camera. SeaLife cameras, lightings and accessories are sold and serviced in 64 countries around the world. For more information, visit http://ift.tt/V4r1DB.

The post SeaLife Unveils New Sea Dragon Fluoro-Dual Beam appeared first on Scuba Diver Life.

from Scuba Diver Life http://ift.tt/2fLGoeN

SeaLife Unveils New Sea Dragon Fluoro-Dual Beam

SeaLife introduced their first fluorescent photo-video-dive light, the Sea Dragon Fluoro-Dual Beam, at the DEMA (Dive Equipment & Marketing Association) tradeshow in mid-November. Favored by divers for spectacular shows of color and impressive nighttime displays of emitted energy, fluorescence or “fluoro” diving with specialized lighting has become popular.   

Here’s how fluoro diving works: The light’s royal blue LEDs emit blue light in the range of 450-460nm, which is in the approximate frequency range to “excite” the fish, reef and organisms into making a light-filled energy response. The new SeaLife Sea Dragon Fluoro-Dual Beam adds a finely tuned and proprietary dichroic filter that pinpoints the exact light frequency so as to get the highest energy response from your underwater subjects, revealing vibrant fluorescent colors of underwater creatures. The Fluoro-Dual Beam also offers an 800-lumen white-light spot beam, so divers can also use it as a dive light to guide them to favorite fluoro-viewing areas.

The Sea Dragon Fluoro-Dual Beam features two switchable beams that easily transform it from a blue fluoro 65-degree floodlight to a white, 800-lumen 15-degree concentrated beam with a push of a button. A rechargeable lithium ion 7.4V, 3400 mAh, 25Wh battery delivers power for two continuous hours at 100-percent fluoro emission. With its single-button operation, the light can quickly adjust between four brightness modes: 100% fluoro flood, 50% fluoro flood, 100% white spot, and 50% white spot. Additionally, the Fluoro-Dual Beam has an emergency signal mode that is activated by holding the power button in for four seconds. 

Two universal barrier filters are included to improve your experience in underwater fluorescent viewing and imaging. The mask filter fits over your dive mask to filter out the light’s residual blue light — it’s the response from the sea creature you want to see, not the blue light. The second filter attaches to any underwater camera with a lens diameter up to 47mm. The viewer wears a yellow mask filter so they see only the fish or sea organism’s emitted energy, not the Sea Dragon Fluoro-Dual beam’s blue light.  A yellow camera lens filter also serves the same function on an underwater camera.

The Sea Dragon Fluoro-Dual Beam is depth rated down to 330 feet (100 m). The dual silicone O-ring battery component is independent from the Sea Dragon’s electronics, so the light will not be permanently damaged if water accidentally intrudes.

The Fluoro-Dual Beam includes a Flex-Connect Single Tray, Grip and Sea Dragon Ball Joint Adapter (SL995) that connects the light to any underwater camera using the 1”/25mm ball joint mounting system. Like all Sea Dragon lights and strobe, the Sea Dragon Fluoro-Dual Beam can easily be expanded with Flex-Connect trays, grips, and mounting accessories.

The Sea Dragon Fluoro-Dual Beam will be available for shipment in January 2017 at the following price:

SL673

Sea Dragon Fluoro-Dual Beam (Includes Flex-Connect Grip, Single Tray, Flex-Connect Sea Dragon Ball Joint Adapter, mask and camera barrier filters)

$499.95

About SeaLife:
SeaLife Underwater Cameras are made by Pioneer Research in Moorestown, NJ and were first introduced in 1993. In 2000, SeaLife developed the world’s first digital underwater camera. In 2007, SeaLife developed the first non-housed digital underwater camera, and in 2013 SeaLife introduced the powerful Sea Dragon Lighting system and its innovative Flex-Connect tray, grip, arm and accessory system. By 2014, SeaLife introduced the Micro HD, the world’s first permanently sealed underwater camera. SeaLife cameras, lightings and accessories are sold and serviced in 64 countries around the world. For more information, visit http://ift.tt/V4r1DB.

The post SeaLife Unveils New Sea Dragon Fluoro-Dual Beam appeared first on Scuba Diver Life.

from Scuba Diver Life http://ift.tt/2fLGoeN

Top Stocking Stuffers for Divers

As the holiday season approaches, we're here to help make gift giving easy with these top stocking stuffers for divers. Ranging in price from $10 to almost $200, you'll surely find something for everyone on this list.

Dive Inspire luggage tags

I still haven't gotten over discovering Dive Inspire's line of luggage tags, magnets, keychains and more, so they had to top this list. Small and inexpensive, these adorable renderings of marine life, such as pygmy seahorses, manta rays, nudibranchs and sharks, make absolutely perfect stocking stuffers for divers and non-divers alike. They're bright, fun, and cheery. Best of all, they cost just $10 USD for magnets or keychains, $12 USD for the luggage tags, and $28 USD for their wonderful reusable bags. Check out their site to see their entire line and you'll fall in love just like we did.

(Note: Some users report Google has flagged the site as unsafe. We've reported this to the company and we've visited the site ourselves without any issues. Our antivirus and malware protection didn't alert us to anything).

Jellyfish Emergency Kit

Consider the jellyfish. This small blob of goo with a mighty sting can turn an enjoyable dive into multiple days of suffering. The world's first Jellyfish Emergency Kit aims to aid the marine-injured diver with its contents: bottles of high-acidity vinegar, gloves, a scraping card to remove remaining stingers off the skin, and soothing lotion to help keep the longer-term itching and burning at bay. The kit retails for about $25 USD.

Dive Flag jewelry

Not much explanation needed here — the jewelry says it all.

Dive Flag offers rings, pendants with leather cords, chains, or wire, bracelets, anklets, earrings, and keychains. Each piece is made from rhodium-plated bronze with simulated red coral and mother-of-pearl. They're durable, won't tarnish, and range in price from $25 to $45 USD.

Stream2Sea body care

Most of us continually strive to be more eco-friendly in all aspects of our lives. Our choices when it comes to sunscreen and other body-care products, such as lotion and shampoo, impact our oceans — most often negatively. In some cases, it's difficult to find eco-friendly products, but Stream2Sea makes it easy for us. This eco-conscious and award-winning line of sunscreen, shampoo, conditioner, lip balm, and sting-relief cream has been thoroughly tested and formulated to help eliminate the negative impacts on our oceans. You can read more about the ingredients, the testing methodology, and product safety on their site, as well as make your purchases. Items range from around $6.95 to $25 USD.

Nautilus LifeLine Marine Rescue GPS

Maxing out on price when it comes to the top stocking stuffers for divers, this is one gift that all divers will be happy to receive, yet hope they never have to use. The new Nautilus Lifeline is smaller and lighter than, yet just as powerful, as its predecessor. Divers carry these in case of emergency, particularly in areas known for strong currents. If they become separated from their group or are unable to return to the dive boat, the Nautilus sends out a distress signal when activated. AIS*-equipped ships over 30 miles away can receive the signal and the DSC* message can be received over a mile away using VHF, if you program your dive boat's MMSI* number into the LifeLine.

It's accurate up to five feet (1.5 m), waterproof to 425 feet (129 m), and positively buoyant. The $179 to $199 price tag may seem a bit hefty, but the security it offers is priceless. 

* Note: for the nautical-acronym impaired, AIS stands for Automatic Identification System, which boats use to identify and locate other boats electronically. DSC stands for Digital Selective Calling, which allows boats to send and receive distress calls. MMSI stands for Maritime Mobile Service Identity which is a unique, numeric boat identifier.

The post Top Stocking Stuffers for Divers appeared first on Scuba Diver Life.

from Scuba Diver Life http://ift.tt/2gxqtTf

Top Stocking Stuffers for Divers

As the holiday season approaches, we’re here to help make gift giving easy with these top stocking stuffers for divers. Ranging in price from $10 to almost $200, you’ll surely find something for everyone on this list.

Dive Inspire luggage tags

I still haven’t gotten over discovering Dive Inspire’s line of luggage tags, magnets, keychains and more, so they had to top this list. Small and inexpensive, these adorable renderings of marine life, such as pygmy seahorses, manta rays, nudibranchs and sharks, make absolutely perfect stocking stuffers for divers and non-divers alike. They’re bright, fun, and cheery. Best of all, they cost just $10 USD for magnets or keychains, $12 USD for the luggage tags, and $28 USD for their wonderful reusable bags. Check out their site to see their entire line and you’ll fall in love just like we did.

(Note: Some users report Google has flagged the site as unsafe. We’ve reported this to the company and we’ve visited the site ourselves without any issues. Our antivirus and malware protection didn’t alert us to anything).

Jellyfish Emergency Kit

Consider the jellyfish. This small blob of goo with a mighty sting can turn an enjoyable dive into multiple days of suffering. The world’s first Jellyfish Emergency Kit aims to aid the marine-injured diver with its contents: bottles of high-acidity vinegar, gloves, a scraping card to remove remaining stingers off the skin, and soothing lotion to help keep the longer-term itching and burning at bay. The kit retails for about $25 USD.

Dive Flag jewelry

Not much explanation needed here — the jewelry says it all.

Dive Flag offers rings, pendants with leather cords, chains, or wire, bracelets, anklets, earrings, and keychains. Each piece is made from rhodium-plated bronze with simulated red coral and mother-of-pearl. They’re durable, won’t tarnish, and range in price from $25 to $45 USD.

Stream2Sea body care

Most of us continually strive to be more eco-friendly in all aspects of our lives. Our choices when it comes to sunscreen and other body-care products, such as lotion and shampoo, impact our oceans — most often negatively. In some cases, it’s difficult to find eco-friendly products, but Stream2Sea makes it easy for us. This eco-conscious and award-winning line of sunscreen, shampoo, conditioner, lip balm, and sting-relief cream has been thoroughly tested and formulated to help eliminate the negative impacts on our oceans. You can read more about the ingredients, the testing methodology, and product safety on their site, as well as make your purchases. Items range from around $6.95 to $25 USD.

Nautilus LifeLine Marine Rescue GPS

Maxing out on price when it comes to the top stocking stuffers for divers, this is one gift that all divers will be happy to receive, yet hope they never have to use. The new Nautilus Lifeline is smaller and lighter than, yet just as powerful, as its predecessor. Divers carry these in case of emergency, particularly in areas known for strong currents. If they become separated from their group or are unable to return to the dive boat, the Nautilus sends out a distress signal when activated. AIS*-equipped ships over 30 miles away can receive the signal and the DSC* message can be received over a mile away using VHF, if you program your dive boat’s MMSI* number into the LifeLine.

It’s accurate up to five feet (1.5 m), waterproof to 425 feet (129 m), and positively buoyant. The $179 to $199 price tag may seem a bit hefty, but the security it offers is priceless. 

* Note: for the nautical-acronym impaired, AIS stands for Automatic Identification System, which boats use to identify and locate other boats electronically. DSC stands for Digital Selective Calling, which allows boats to send and receive distress calls. MMSI stands for Maritime Mobile Service Identity which is a unique, numeric boat identifier.

The post Top Stocking Stuffers for Divers appeared first on Scuba Diver Life.

from Scuba Diver Life http://ift.tt/2gxqtTf

Hotels leverage tech to predict guest wants, needs

Want a feather pillow for your bed? Chances are, the hotel already knew that. Profiling technology has made it easier than ever to personalize guest stays.

from HOTELMARKETING.COM http://ift.tt/2fK6QFT

Is there a thawing in the hotel and OTA relationship?

There’s been a subtle change in tone from some quarters when you ask hotels about the power of OTAs. What used to almost incite rage has softened with a few hotels starting to refer to the likes of Expedia and Booking.com as partners.

from HOTELMARKETING.COM http://ift.tt/2gi5Xbf

Senators offer hope to end booking scams

With all the great opportunities and conveniences of booking a hotel room online today also comes the mushrooming reality of increased scams. In fact, some 15 million online hotel booking scams occur every year.

from HOTELMARKETING.COM http://ift.tt/2g4uvl6

Cvent and Lanyon announce merger

Cvent and Lanyon announced the merger of the two companies creating a global meeting, event and travel technology leader. The merger is effective today, and the companies will combine business operations in the coming year.

from HOTELMARKETING.COM http://ift.tt/2gi70bj

Hotels leverage tech to predict guest wants, needs

Want a feather pillow for your bed? Chances are, the hotel already knew that. Profiling technology has made it easier than ever to personalize guest stays.

from HOTELMARKETING.COM http://ift.tt/2fK6QFT

Is there a thawing in the hotel and OTA relationship?

There's been a subtle change in tone from some quarters when you ask hotels about the power of OTAs. What used to almost incite rage has softened with a few hotels starting to refer to the likes of Expedia and Booking.com as partners.

from HOTELMARKETING.COM http://ift.tt/2gi5Xbf

Senators offer hope to end booking scams

With all the great opportunities and conveniences of booking a hotel room online today also comes the mushrooming reality of increased scams. In fact, some 15 million online hotel booking scams occur every year.

from HOTELMARKETING.COM http://ift.tt/2g4uvl6

Cvent and Lanyon announce merger

Cvent and Lanyon announced the merger of the two companies creating a global meeting, event and travel technology leader. The merger is effective today, and the companies will combine business operations in the coming year.

from HOTELMARKETING.COM http://ift.tt/2gi70bj

Report: Luxury travel industry to reach $1.2B by 2020

Baby boomers are the leading demographic making up the luxury travel market spend with higher numbers of annual visits, according to Allied Market Research.

from HOTELMARKETING.COM http://ift.tt/2gTUqjw

Cendyn announces acquisition of Guestfolio

With Cendyn's acquisition of Guestfolio, the company will offer an unprecedented ability for hoteliers to tailor their guest experience and digital marketing solutions to meet competitive marketplace demands and drive profitable revenue growth.

from HOTELMARKETING.COM http://ift.tt/2gHptwh

Five ways guests from opinions about your hotel

Understanding how guests form impressions and expectations is the first step in working towards exceeding them. Here are some of the ways that your customers are forming expectations about you.

from HOTELMARKETING.COM http://ift.tt/2gTXDjn

SiteMinder secures its place in Deloitte Technology Fast 50 for sixth year running

Two months into celebrating its 10th year in business, the global hotel industry’s leading cloud platform, SiteMinder, is proving its growth is far from slowing with the announcement it is a Deloitte Technology Fast 50 Australia winner for the sixth consecutive year.

from HOTELMARKETING.COM http://ift.tt/2gHpd0e

Report: Luxury travel industry to reach $1.2B by 2020

Baby boomers are the leading demographic making up the luxury travel market spend with higher numbers of annual visits, according to Allied Market Research.

from HOTELMARKETING.COM http://ift.tt/2gTUqjw

Cendyn announces acquisition of Guestfolio

With Cendyn's acquisition of Guestfolio, the company will offer an unprecedented ability for hoteliers to tailor their guest experience and digital marketing solutions to meet competitive marketplace demands and drive profitable revenue growth.

from HOTELMARKETING.COM http://ift.tt/2gHptwh

Five ways guests from opinions about your hotel

Understanding how guests form impressions and expectations is the first step in working towards exceeding them. Here are some of the ways that your customers are forming expectations about you.

from HOTELMARKETING.COM http://ift.tt/2gTXDjn

SiteMinder secures its place in Deloitte Technology Fast 50 for sixth year running

Two months into celebrating its 10th year in business, the global hotel industry's leading cloud platform, SiteMinder, is proving its growth is far from slowing with the announcement it is a Deloitte Technology Fast 50 Australia winner for the sixth consecutive year.

from HOTELMARKETING.COM http://ift.tt/2gHpd0e

The Best Diving in New Zealand: South Island

In an earlier article we covered New Zealand’s North Island, but the South Island holds treasures for divers as well. It’s known for diverse and spectacular landscapes, including remote national parks, golden beaches, World Heritage-status rainforests, glaciers and Mount Cook. With scenery made famous by “The Lord of the Rings” and “The Hobbit,” it’s a popular vacation destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The South Island is also home to a number of marine reserves, a healthy population of great white sharks and a variety of dive sites suitable for all dive levels. Here are our top picks for the best diving in New Zealand: South Island.

MS Mikhail Lermontov

Where is it: Port Gore, Marlborough Sounds

What makes it special: The Mikhail Lermontov, a 20,000-ton Russian cruise liner, sank in 1986 after striking rocks near Cape Jackson. It’s one of the world’s largest and most dive-accessible wrecks, at 576 feet (176 m) long. It lies intact on its starboard side, from a minimum of 40 feet (12 m) to a max depth of 125 feet (38 m). Those with the proper training can penetrate the wreck and dive within the ballroom while admiring the spiral staircases and chandeliers.

Details: While the deeper parts of the wreck are accessible only to advanced divers, the hull sits at only 50 feet (15 m). This dive is suitable for Advanced Open Water divers and technical diving is possible as well. We recommend an orientation before penetrating the wreck. If you’re trained on a closed-circuit rebreather, it’s an excellent choice for the wreck’s interior for visibility’s sake. Viz ranges from 16 to 66 feet (5 to 20 m) outside the wreck. The main diving season runs from October to April, with water temperatures ranging from 54 F (12 C) in winter to 68 F (20 C) in summer. You’ll want at least a 7mm wetsuit, but we recommend a drysuit. As with any wreck dive, you should bring a torch and dive knife.

When to go: February through April for warmer water.

---

Riwaka Caves

Where is it: Nelson

What makes it special: The Riwaka Caves offer an interesting freshwater cave dive that’s suitable for relatively inexperienced divers. This subterranean system contains two sumps, or passages that are submerged underwater. The entrance lies at the bottom of Takaka Hill, surrounded by ancient forests. Highlights include stalactite and stalagmite formations and a waterfall of pink limestone inside sump two.

Details: The dive site is suitable for Advanced Open Water divers accompanied by experienced cave divers who know the caverns. Cave diving rules apply and, as this is a cold-water dive with an average summer temperature of 43 to 45 F (6 to 7 C), a drysuit is essential. Average dive depth is 40 feet (12 m).

When to go: Summer means warmer air temperatures post-dive. The site is only accessible during periods of dry weather.

---

New Zealand fur seals

Where is it: Kaikoura

What makes it special: The scenic town of Kaikoura offers the opportunity to swim with playful and approachable New Zealand fur seals, and is also home to an array of dive sites. The proximity of the continental shelf has created a biodiversity hotspot in Kaikoura’s waters, where you can find whales, dolphins, sharks and other marine life in abundance.

Details: There are dive sites at Kaikoura suitable for novice and experienced divers, and you won’t need prior experience to swim with the seals. The water temperature ranges from 50 (10 C) in winter to 62 (17 C) in summer, so we recommend a 7 to 10 mm wetsuit or a drysuit.

When to go: You can dive year-round in Kaikoura, though summer offers the best water temperature and climate for exploring the coastline and mountains during non-diving days.

---

Milford Sound

Where is it: Fjordland

What makes it special: The Fjordland National Park lies within the Te Wahipounamu World Heritage Area, and diving the Milford Sound marine reserve is a fascinating experience. The sheer cliff faces of Milford and heavy rainfall provide a unique ecosystem where black-coral trees flourish. These are usually only present in deep- water trenches. The sound is home to abundant crayfish, nudibranchs and a variety of fish species. You may also see great white and other shark species, dolphins and seals while diving.

Details: Dive depths vary depending on the site. Dives are suitable for novice and experienced divers. Milford Sound also offers Discover Scuba Diving experiences and snorkeling. The water temperature ranges from 54 F (12 C) in winter to 57 F (14 C) in late summer, though the thin layer of surface freshwater remains a steady and cold 46 F (8 C). A drysuit is recommended.

When to go: Summer for warmer air temperatures.

---

Great white sharks

Where is it: Bluff, Southland

What makes it special: The waters surrounding Southland have a population of more than 100 great white sharks. The area is also home to whales, penguins, albatross and other wildlife. Cage diving with great white sharks and wildlife safaris are available for diver and non-divers alike from the coastal town of Bluff, and are suitable for ages 12 years and up.

Details: You don’t need any experience for this dive, as the cage sits at the water’s surface. Trips are available December through June and you should wear a 7 to 10 mm wetsuit given the lack of movement when observing sharks from the cage.

When to go: December through June. Peak season is in the summer months of January and February.

The post The Best Diving in New Zealand: South Island appeared first on Scuba Diver Life.

from Scuba Diver Life http://ift.tt/2fy1d28

The Best Diving in New Zealand: South Island

In an earlier article we covered New Zealand's North Island, but the South Island holds treasures for divers as well. It's known for diverse and spectacular landscapes, including remote national parks, golden beaches, World Heritage-status rainforests, glaciers and Mount Cook. With scenery made famous by "The Lord of the Rings" and "The Hobbit," it's a popular vacation destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The South Island is also home to a number of marine reserves, a healthy population of great white sharks and a variety of dive sites suitable for all dive levels. Here are our top picks for the best diving in New Zealand: South Island.

MS Mikhail Lermontov

Where is it: Port Gore, Marlborough Sounds

What makes it special: The Mikhail Lermontov, a 20,000-ton Russian cruise liner, sank in 1986 after striking rocks near Cape Jackson. It's one of the world's largest and most dive-accessible wrecks, at 576 feet (176 m) long. It lies intact on its starboard side, from a minimum of 40 feet (12 m) to a max depth of 125 feet (38 m). Those with the proper training can penetrate the wreck and dive within the ballroom while admiring the spiral staircases and chandeliers.

Details: While the deeper parts of the wreck are accessible only to advanced divers, the hull sits at only 50 feet (15 m). This dive is suitable for Advanced Open Water divers and technical diving is possible as well. We recommend an orientation before penetrating the wreck. If you're trained on a closed-circuit rebreather, it's an excellent choice for the wreck's interior for visibility's sake. Viz ranges from 16 to 66 feet (5 to 20 m) outside the wreck. The main diving season runs from October to April, with water temperatures ranging from 54 F (12 C) in winter to 68 F (20 C) in summer. You'll want at least a 7mm wetsuit, but we recommend a drysuit. As with any wreck dive, you should bring a torch and dive knife.

When to go: February through April for warmer water.

---

Riwaka Caves

Where is it: Nelson

What makes it special: The Riwaka Caves offer an interesting freshwater cave dive that's suitable for relatively inexperienced divers. This subterranean system contains two sumps, or passages that are submerged underwater. The entrance lies at the bottom of Takaka Hill, surrounded by ancient forests. Highlights include stalactite and stalagmite formations and a waterfall of pink limestone inside sump two.

Details: The dive site is suitable for Advanced Open Water divers accompanied by experienced cave divers who know the caverns. Cave diving rules apply and, as this is a cold-water dive with an average summer temperature of 43 to 45 F (6 to 7 C), a drysuit is essential. Average dive depth is 40 feet (12 m).

When to go: Summer means warmer air temperatures post-dive. The site is only accessible during periods of dry weather.

---

New Zealand fur seals

Where is it: Kaikoura

What makes it special: The scenic town of Kaikoura offers the opportunity to swim with playful and approachable New Zealand fur seals, and is also home to an array of dive sites. The proximity of the continental shelf has created a biodiversity hotspot in Kaikoura's waters, where you can find whales, dolphins, sharks and other marine life in abundance.

Details: There are dive sites at Kaikoura suitable for novice and experienced divers, and you won't need prior experience to swim with the seals. The water temperature ranges from 50 (10 C) in winter to 62 (17 C) in summer, so we recommend a 7 to 10 mm wetsuit or a drysuit.

When to go: You can dive year-round in Kaikoura, though summer offers the best water temperature and climate for exploring the coastline and mountains during non-diving days.

---

Milford Sound

Where is it: Fjordland

What makes it special: The Fjordland National Park lies within the Te Wahipounamu World Heritage Area, and diving the Milford Sound marine reserve is a fascinating experience. The sheer cliff faces of Milford and heavy rainfall provide a unique ecosystem where black-coral trees flourish. These are usually only present in deep- water trenches. The sound is home to abundant crayfish, nudibranchs and a variety of fish species. You may also see great white and other shark species, dolphins and seals while diving.

Details: Dive depths vary depending on the site. Dives are suitable for novice and experienced divers. Milford Sound also offers Discover Scuba Diving experiences and snorkeling. The water temperature ranges from 54 F (12 C) in winter to 57 F (14 C) in late summer, though the thin layer of surface freshwater remains a steady and cold 46 F (8 C). A drysuit is recommended.

When to go: Summer for warmer air temperatures.

---

Great white sharks

Where is it: Bluff, Southland

What makes it special: The waters surrounding Southland have a population of more than 100 great white sharks. The area is also home to whales, penguins, albatross and other wildlife. Cage diving with great white sharks and wildlife safaris are available for diver and non-divers alike from the coastal town of Bluff, and are suitable for ages 12 years and up.

Details: You don't need any experience for this dive, as the cage sits at the water's surface. Trips are available December through June and you should wear a 7 to 10 mm wetsuit given the lack of movement when observing sharks from the cage.

When to go: December through June. Peak season is in the summer months of January and February.

The post The Best Diving in New Zealand: South Island appeared first on Scuba Diver Life.

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3 Common Signs That Mean Your Carpet Needs to Be Stretched

Even the most durable carpets wear out over time, but that doesn't mean you need to invest in new carpeting every few years. Here are some common signs to tell if your carpet needs to be stretched, including: lumps and wrinkles, loose edges and damage.

carpet stretching Curlys Carpet Repairs

Image Source: Flickr

Below are 3 common signs that your carpet needs to be stretched:

Lumps and Wrinkles

There are some obvious signs that carpet needs to be stretched, and there are signs that only a trained professional will be able to determine. For example, you may notice that carpeting appears to be wrinkled, rippled or generally lumpy. Carpet should lay flat and smooth across the floor, and any signs that it is not flat and smooth may indicate the need to have it professionally stretched. You may also notice that carpeting is pulled up at the edges of the room. It should have a tucked in appearance around the baseboards in the room, and areas that are not tucked in may need to be stretched and repaired. If you call a carpeting professional to your home for assistance, the professional can inspect the carpet to look for signs of damage to the seams that you may not be able to notice. Source:  ProGreenCarpetNC

Loose Edges

Carpet is fixed to the floor with tack strips to keep it in place. One way to tell if the carpet is loose and needs stretching is to check the edges or corners. Loose edges indicate the need to stretch and reaffix the carpet to the subfloor.

Conduct a floor test to see if your carpet needs stretching. Insert an awl tool into the center of the carpet and raise it up approximately one inch from the floor. Remove the tool and let the carpet fall back into place. The carpet should snap quickly back into place. If it doesn't, you need to stretch your carpet.  Source: 651Carpets

Damage

Depending on the carpet's depth, there may be cuts or other damage to the base structure. If the carpet's base is damaged in a large area, the surrounding carpet will become loose. It is good practice to look carefully among the carpet fibers for any obvious signs of cuts to the base. If necessary, you can use a flashlight to look even closer into the carpet pile. Finding a relatively large cut should prompt you to stretch the carpet as soon as possible.                                           Source: HomeGuides.SFGate

If you need carpet stretching services, contact us now!

The post 3 Common Signs That Mean Your Carpet Needs to Be Stretched appeared first on Curlys Carpet Repair.

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3 Common Signs That Mean Your Carpet Needs to Be Stretched

Even the most durable carpets wear out over time, but that doesn’t mean you need to invest in new carpeting every few years. Here are some common signs to tell if your carpet needs to be stretched, including: lumps and wrinkles, loose edges and damage.

carpet stretching Curlys Carpet Repairs

Image Source: Flickr

Below are 3 common signs that your carpet needs to be stretched:

Lumps and Wrinkles

There are some obvious signs that carpet needs to be stretched, and there are signs that only a trained professional will be able to determine. For example, you may notice that carpeting appears to be wrinkled, rippled or generally lumpy. Carpet should lay flat and smooth across the floor, and any signs that it is not flat and smooth may indicate the need to have it professionally stretched. You may also notice that carpeting is pulled up at the edges of the room. It should have a tucked in appearance around the baseboards in the room, and areas that are not tucked in may need to be stretched and repaired. If you call a carpeting professional to your home for assistance, the professional can inspect the carpet to look for signs of damage to the seams that you may not be able to notice. Source:  ProGreenCarpetNC

Loose Edges

Carpet is fixed to the floor with tack strips to keep it in place. One way to tell if the carpet is loose and needs stretching is to check the edges or corners. Loose edges indicate the need to stretch and reaffix the carpet to the subfloor.

Conduct a floor test to see if your carpet needs stretching. Insert an awl tool into the center of the carpet and raise it up approximately one inch from the floor. Remove the tool and let the carpet fall back into place. The carpet should snap quickly back into place. If it doesn’t, you need to stretch your carpet.  Source: 651Carpets

Damage

Depending on the carpet’s depth, there may be cuts or other damage to the base structure. If the carpet’s base is damaged in a large area, the surrounding carpet will become loose. It is good practice to look carefully among the carpet fibers for any obvious signs of cuts to the base. If necessary, you can use a flashlight to look even closer into the carpet pile. Finding a relatively large cut should prompt you to stretch the carpet as soon as possible.                                           Source: HomeGuides.SFGate

If you need carpet stretching services, contact us now!

The post 3 Common Signs That Mean Your Carpet Needs to Be Stretched appeared first on Curlys Carpet Repair.

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Marriott and Starwood reveal the future of their luxury brands

Bloomberg secured an exclusive interview with Marriott's global brand officer, Tina Edmundson ahead of a major announcement on how the company's 30 brands will be divvied up and categorized - and what it all means for the top-tier properties.

from HOTELMARKETING.COM http://ift.tt/2gAGcnj

RevPAR expectations declined in 2016

While overall U.S. revenue per available room growth has still been positive for 80 months in a row, many of the major public hotel companies have spent 2016 adjusting their RevPAR growth guidance for the year down from earlier levels.

from HOTELMARKETING.COM http://ift.tt/2fGF793

Marriott and Starwood reveal the future of their luxury brands

Bloomberg secured an exclusive interview with Marriott's global brand officer, Tina Edmundson ahead of a major announcement on how the company’s 30 brands will be divvied up and categorized - and what it all means for the top-tier properties.

from HOTELMARKETING.COM http://ift.tt/2gAGcnj

RevPAR expectations declined in 2016

While overall U.S. revenue per available room growth has still been positive for 80 months in a row, many of the major public hotel companies have spent 2016 adjusting their RevPAR growth guidance for the year down from earlier levels.

from HOTELMARKETING.COM http://ift.tt/2fGF793

Older travelers take more holidays now than ever

The over-50s are getting more adventurous and going on more holidays than when they were younger, new research reveals ahead of a conference examining the market.

from HOTELMARKETING.COM http://ift.tt/2gqXvEm

Hotels Europe: Challenges and potential 2017

Last week, in Athens, a cast of hospitality and travel tech experts gathered at the Digi.travel EMEA Conference & Expo. The conference was dedicated to online travel trends and developments, and to solutions for the most pressing challenges facing the industry.

from HOTELMARKETING.COM http://ift.tt/2fKZEwd

2017 travel marketing trends

In the US, Emarketer estimates that 52% of travel bookers use online platforms to make their bookings. That makes digital marketing techniques like SEO, UX and Social Media Marketing absolutely critical to success in the travel industry.

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SEO without SERPs is here

Here are three ways SEOs can best position themselves for a world of assistant search without SERPs, powered by devices like Google Home and Amazon Echo.

from HOTELMARKETING.COM http://ift.tt/2fKTMDp

IDeaS & TravelClick Webinar: Revenue Strategy + Market Intelligence

You will learn how to leverage industry-leading market intelligence reporting like Demand360 and how integrating this data into your revenue management system will drive a stronger revenue strategy.

from HOTELMARKETING.COM http://ift.tt/2fL4E3Z

TrustYou expands South American presence through partnership with Slaviero Hotels

TrustYou has been selected by Slaviero Hotels, a rapidly expanding chain of hotels in Brazil, to identify and influence online guest feedback and enable its facilities to better understand their guest journeys.

from HOTELMARKETING.COM http://ift.tt/2gqWWun

Older travelers take more holidays now than ever

The over-50s are getting more adventurous and going on more holidays than when they were younger, new research reveals ahead of a conference examining the market.

from HOTELMARKETING.COM http://ift.tt/2gqXvEm

Hotels Europe: Challenges and potential 2017

Last week, in Athens, a cast of hospitality and travel tech experts gathered at the Digi.travel EMEA Conference & Expo. The conference was dedicated to online travel trends and developments, and to solutions for the most pressing challenges facing the industry.

from HOTELMARKETING.COM http://ift.tt/2fKZEwd

2017 travel marketing trends

In the US, Emarketer estimates that 52% of travel bookers use online platforms to make their bookings. That makes digital marketing techniques like SEO, UX and Social Media Marketing absolutely critical to success in the travel industry.

from HOTELMARKETING.COM http://ift.tt/2gr229Y

SEO without SERPs is here

Here are three ways SEOs can best position themselves for a world of assistant search without SERPs, powered by devices like Google Home and Amazon Echo.

from HOTELMARKETING.COM http://ift.tt/2fKTMDp

IDeaS & TravelClick Webinar: Revenue Strategy + Market Intelligence

You will learn how to leverage industry-leading market intelligence reporting like Demand360 and how integrating this data into your revenue management system will drive a stronger revenue strategy.

from HOTELMARKETING.COM http://ift.tt/2fL4E3Z

TrustYou expands South American presence through partnership with Slaviero Hotels

TrustYou has been selected by Slaviero Hotels, a rapidly expanding chain of hotels in Brazil, to identify and influence online guest feedback and enable its facilities to better understand their guest journeys.

from HOTELMARKETING.COM http://ift.tt/2gqWWun

3 Winter Window Treatments

When staged according to the season, window treatments can make a huge difference in how someone feels about a space. In this short post we’ll cover 3 window treatments that are well suited to the winter season.

Image Source: Flickr

Layered Curtains or Insulated Curtains
Use heavy fabrics or layered curtains over the windows to keep out drafts. Or, purchase insulated curtains with built-in thermal backing. Source: ApartmentTherapy

Block Out Blinds
They’re reasonably straightforward to fit as long as you are absolutely pinpoint accurate with the measurement for the vertical runners, as they must fit the window frame exactly. I managed with only a few expletives. They’re perfect at night as they block out light as well as draughts, but need to be opened during the day to let the winter sun in, so they are not effective during the hours of precious winter daylight. Source: TeleGraph

Shutters
Plantation Shutters can be considered the best value winter window treatments for their aesthetic appeal as well as their ability to increase the selling price on your home (in addition to keeping you warm!)
Plantation Shutters, especially those constructed of wood, have insulating elements and when closed the solid, durable structure of the slats will keep the cold air out of your windows during the winter and will shade your home from the scorching sun during the summer.
For those looking for a cheap, fast solution for your windows, Plantation Shutters are probably not the best choice. However, if you are looking to spice up the room with some elegance and desire a long-term solution that will add value to your home- then this is the option for you! Source: Blog.ShadesShuttersBlinds

Contact:
Universal Blinds
601 – 1550 W. 10th Ave
Vancouver, V6J 1Z9
Canada
Phone: (604) 559-1988

The post 3 Winter Window Treatments appeared first on Universal Blinds, Shades & Shutters.

from Universal Blinds, Shades & Shutters http://ift.tt/2gAlnYY

3 Winter Window Treatments

When staged according to the season, window treatments can make a huge difference in how someone feels about a space. In this short post we'll cover 3 window treatments that are well suited to the winter season.

Image Source: Flickr

Layered Curtains or Insulated Curtains
Use heavy fabrics or layered curtains over the windows to keep out drafts. Or, purchase insulated curtains with built-in thermal backing. Source: ApartmentTherapy

Block Out Blinds
They're reasonably straightforward to fit as long as you are absolutely pinpoint accurate with the measurement for the vertical runners, as they must fit the window frame exactly. I managed with only a few expletives. They're perfect at night as they block out light as well as draughts, but need to be opened during the day to let the winter sun in, so they are not effective during the hours of precious winter daylight. Source: TeleGraph

Shutters
Plantation Shutters can be considered the best value winter window treatments for their aesthetic appeal as well as their ability to increase the selling price on your home (in addition to keeping you warm!)
Plantation Shutters, especially those constructed of wood, have insulating elements and when closed the solid, durable structure of the slats will keep the cold air out of your windows during the winter and will shade your home from the scorching sun during the summer.
For those looking for a cheap, fast solution for your windows, Plantation Shutters are probably not the best choice. However, if you are looking to spice up the room with some elegance and desire a long-term solution that will add value to your home- then this is the option for you! Source: Blog.ShadesShuttersBlinds

Contact:
Universal Blinds
601 – 1550 W. 10th Ave
Vancouver, V6J 1Z9
Canada
Phone: (604) 559-1988

The post 3 Winter Window Treatments appeared first on Universal Blinds, Shades & Shutters.

from Universal Blinds, Shades & Shutters http://ift.tt/2gAlnYY

4 Tips to Prepare Your Bathroom for Winter Months

Content originally published and Shared from http://perfectbath.com

Winter is on the horizon. If you haven’t prepared your bathrooms for cold weather, now is the time. Here are some tips to help you prepare your bathroom for the upcoming winter months, including: checking windows and pipes, adding some heating, setting the mood & winterizing your toilet.

Image Source: Flickr

Below are 4 tips to prepare your bathroom for the winter months:

Check Windows and Pipes

Bathrooms can be draughty places, so it’s a good idea to check your windows for cracks and reseal any worn silicone. It might also be a good idea to check your pipes for cracks and leaks, as well as ensuring all your pipework is properly insulated. By ensuring there are no problems in your bathroom to begin with, you can avoid small problems getting bigger down the track, which can often happen in winter with frozen pipes causing expensive issues. Source: BathroomCity

Add Some Heating
Is there anything more unpleasant than having to make a trip to the bathroom in the middle of the night, only to discover that the entire room is freezing cold?  You can avoid this unpleasant scenario – to a point, anyway – by adding a heating element to your bathroom during the winter months. If your bathroom doesn’t already have its own heat source, add a space heater or other portable heating device that can be switched on to heat up at least part of the room as quickly as possible. Source: AmericanBathInd

Set the mood
Speaking of simple swaps, trading out bathroom accessories to fit the season is a great way to change the look of the bath. Display cozy, plush robes to keep bathers warm when stepping out of the shower and make guests feel right at home. Consider installing robe hooks close to the shower door for easy access. For added flair, incorporate accessories such as towels in a festive pattern, splashes of gold in soap dishes, or hints of bronze in candle holders and picture frames. Source: WaynecoJournalBanner

Winterize Your Toilet
You may be unaware that you can winterize your toilet and prevent this fixture from freezing during cold weather. In fact winterizing the toilet is quite easy and does not take much time at all to complete. This process involves using plumber’s antifreeze, which you can buy at most home improvement or hardware stores.
Before you pour in the antifreeze, you should first empty the water out of the back tank. Once the water is drained, you can then pour in the antifreeze and then flush it into the bowl and drainage system. After you flush, you should then pour a half cup of plumber’s antifreeze into each sink, shower, and tub in your house. This step winterizes the entire drainage system in your bathroom. Source: KitchenCabinetKings

Contact:
Perfect Bath
Phone: Toll Free 1-866-843-1641
Calgary, Alberta
Email: info@perfectbath.com

The post 4 Tips to Prepare Your Bathroom for Winter Months appeared first on Perfect Bath Canada.

from Perfect Bath Canada http://ift.tt/2gQrMA5

3 Winter Window Treatments

from Universal Blinds, Shades & Shutters http://ift.tt/2gAlnYY

4 Tips to Prepare Your Bathroom for Winter Months

Content originally published and Shared from http://perfectbath.com

Winter is on the horizon. If you haven't prepared your bathrooms for cold weather, now is the time. Here are some tips to help you prepare your bathroom for the upcoming winter months, including: checking windows and pipes, adding some heating, setting the mood & winterizing your toilet.

Image Source: Flickr

Below are 4 tips to prepare your bathroom for the winter months:

Check Windows and Pipes

Bathrooms can be draughty places, so it's a good idea to check your windows for cracks and reseal any worn silicone. It might also be a good idea to check your pipes for cracks and leaks, as well as ensuring all your pipework is properly insulated. By ensuring there are no problems in your bathroom to begin with, you can avoid small problems getting bigger down the track, which can often happen in winter with frozen pipes causing expensive issues. Source: BathroomCity

Add Some Heating
Is there anything more unpleasant than having to make a trip to the bathroom in the middle of the night, only to discover that the entire room is freezing cold?  You can avoid this unpleasant scenario – to a point, anyway – by adding a heating element to your bathroom during the winter months. If your bathroom doesn't already have its own heat source, add a space heater or other portable heating device that can be switched on to heat up at least part of the room as quickly as possible. Source: AmericanBathInd

Set the mood
Speaking of simple swaps, trading out bathroom accessories to fit the season is a great way to change the look of the bath. Display cozy, plush robes to keep bathers warm when stepping out of the shower and make guests feel right at home. Consider installing robe hooks close to the shower door for easy access. For added flair, incorporate accessories such as towels in a festive pattern, splashes of gold in soap dishes, or hints of bronze in candle holders and picture frames. Source: WaynecoJournalBanner

Winterize Your Toilet
You may be unaware that you can winterize your toilet and prevent this fixture from freezing during cold weather. In fact winterizing the toilet is quite easy and does not take much time at all to complete. This process involves using plumber's antifreeze, which you can buy at most home improvement or hardware stores.
Before you pour in the antifreeze, you should first empty the water out of the back tank. Once the water is drained, you can then pour in the antifreeze and then flush it into the bowl and drainage system. After you flush, you should then pour a half cup of plumber's antifreeze into each sink, shower, and tub in your house. This step winterizes the entire drainage system in your bathroom. Source: KitchenCabinetKings

Contact:
Perfect Bath
Phone: Toll Free 1-866-843-1641
Calgary, Alberta
Email: info@perfectbath.com

The post 4 Tips to Prepare Your Bathroom for Winter Months appeared first on Perfect Bath Canada.

from Perfect Bath Canada http://ift.tt/2gQrMA5

Ocean-Themed Bath and Body Products

Either as a treat to yourself or as the perfect holiday gift for the water-lover in your life, garner a little sea therapy with these ocean-themed bath and body products to soothe the diver soul. Here are 12 of our favorite stocking stuffers.

[See image gallery at scubadiverlife.com]

 

 

By guest author Beth McCrea

The post Ocean-Themed Bath and Body Products appeared first on Scuba Diver Life.

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Ocean-Themed Bath and Body Products

Either as a treat to yourself or as the perfect holiday gift for the water-lover in your life, garner a little sea therapy with these ocean-themed bath and body products to soothe the diver soul. Here are 12 of our favorite stocking stuffers.

[See image gallery at scubadiverlife.com]

 

 

By guest author Beth McCrea

The post Ocean-Themed Bath and Body Products appeared first on Scuba Diver Life.

from Scuba Diver Life http://ift.tt/2fsHBML

Predictive analytics is the future of hotel revenue strategy

During the past decade, most hotel companies revenue management has evolved from just a rate-setting function to a strategic discipline that relies on predictive analytics to guide the entire enterprise's quest for increased profitability.

from HOTELMARKETING.COM http://ift.tt/2fDzuZ3

Predictive analytics is the future of hotel revenue strategy

During the past decade, most hotel companies revenue management has evolved from just a rate-setting function to a strategic discipline that relies on predictive analytics to guide the entire enterprise’s quest for increased profitability.

from HOTELMARKETING.COM http://ift.tt/2fDzuZ3

Four myths of hotel revenue management

Revenue management doesn’t often find itself associated with mythical unicorns or other infamous folklore, but there are still some very common misconceptions that tend to swirl around the importance of its technology within the hospitality industry.

from HOTELMARKETING.COM http://ift.tt/2gmPDDI

Four myths of hotel revenue management

Revenue management doesn't often find itself associated with mythical unicorns or other infamous folklore, but there are still some very common misconceptions that tend to swirl around the importance of its technology within the hospitality industry.

from HOTELMARKETING.COM http://ift.tt/2gmPDDI

Search engines continue to be largest traffic driver for hotel sites

Over 50% of traffic for UK travel accommodation sites on the Hitwise platform in July 2016 came from search engines for both direct hotel sites and hotel aggregator sites, with just under 50% for rental sites.

from HOTELMARKETING.COM http://ift.tt/2fDxP5E

Skyscanner CEO discusses why he just sold his company for $1.7 billion

While the terms of the acquisition were what swung Gareth Williams toward selling rather than taking a chance on the stock market with a long rumored IPO - operational independence was the key driver that led to the Ctrip acquisition.

from HOTELMARKETING.COM http://ift.tt/2gxiOa2

Hoteliers revolt over Booking.com ruling

New Zealand, Queenstown hotel owner Nik Kiddle is leading a group of about 100 accommodation providers around the country, who want more freedom to offer better room rates.

from HOTELMARKETING.COM http://ift.tt/2fDxno5

Five things that need to be fixed in travel now

More than 17% of respondents to a new survey said they'd stopped doing business with a travel company in 2016 because of poor customer service, a 45% increase from last year. If it continues, the industry will soon overtake the telecom and cable industry as a leader in bad customer service.

from HOTELMARKETING.COM http://ift.tt/2gxk39q

Airlines’ engagement with customers on social media is now critical to success

From updates on crises, to feedback about inflight service, social media has now become the most important and fastest way for airlines to connect with their customers, as well as for customers to get real-time information regarding their flights.

from HOTELMARKETING.COM http://ift.tt/2fDy2G6

Uber wants to be a digital service, not a transportation company

Uber will seek to convince Europe’s top court this week that it is a digital service, not a transport company, in a case that could determine whether app-based startups should be exempt from strict laws meant for regular companies.

from HOTELMARKETING.COM http://ift.tt/2gxk1yk

Search engines continue to be largest traffic driver for hotel sites

Over 50% of traffic for UK travel accommodation sites on the Hitwise platform in July 2016 came from search engines for both direct hotel sites and hotel aggregator sites, with just under 50% for rental sites.

from HOTELMARKETING.COM http://ift.tt/2fDxP5E

Skyscanner CEO discusses why he just sold his company for $1.7 billion

While the terms of the acquisition were what swung Gareth Williams toward selling rather than taking a chance on the stock market with a long rumored IPO - operational independence was the key driver that led to the Ctrip acquisition.

from HOTELMARKETING.COM http://ift.tt/2gxiOa2

Hoteliers revolt over Booking.com ruling

New Zealand, Queenstown hotel owner Nik Kiddle is leading a group of about 100 accommodation providers around the country, who want more freedom to offer better room rates.

from HOTELMARKETING.COM http://ift.tt/2fDxno5

Five things that need to be fixed in travel now

More than 17% of respondents to a new survey said they'd stopped doing business with a travel company in 2016 because of poor customer service, a 45% increase from last year. If it continues, the industry will soon overtake the telecom and cable industry as a leader in bad customer service.

from HOTELMARKETING.COM http://ift.tt/2gxk39q

Airlines’ engagement with customers on social media is now critical to success

From updates on crises, to feedback about inflight service, social media has now become the most important and fastest way for airlines to connect with their customers, as well as for customers to get real-time information regarding their flights.

from HOTELMARKETING.COM http://ift.tt/2fDy2G6

Uber wants to be a digital service, not a transportation company

Uber will seek to convince Europe's top court this week that it is a digital service, not a transport company, in a case that could determine whether app-based startups should be exempt from strict laws meant for regular companies.

from HOTELMARKETING.COM http://ift.tt/2gxk1yk

Diving Onboard the S/Y Philippine Siren

In late December 2015, the folks at Siren Fleet invited a writer, videographer and I to dive onboard S/Y Philippine Siren. The 130-foot (40 m) luxury liveaboard features eight comfortable cabins, a large outdoor dining area with family-style seating, and a spacious dive deck. As an avid photographer, I was especially interested in the photo facilities. There are designated indoor and outdoor workstations for charging and preparing your gear, as well as roomy storage drawers for your odds and ends.

Photography onboard the Philippine Siren

I didn’t bring my regular set up with me. Instead, I brought a point-and-shoot video set up, and was still able to capture great images. The diving off the Philippine Siren was nothing short of spectacular. We dove mainly around Dauin, which meant lots of muck diving, as well as a visit to the hard-coral paradise of Apo Island. Finally, we participated in the somewhat controversial whale-shark snorkel experience in Oslob. A trip onboard the Philippine Siren is perfect for all sorts of divers and photographers, from novice to pro. Here’s a quick gallery to showcase some of what we saw — and what you could too — onboard the Philippine Siren.

The post Diving Onboard the S/Y Philippine Siren appeared first on Scuba Diver Life.

from Scuba Diver Life http://ift.tt/2gzbE2N

Diving Onboard the S/Y Philippine Siren

In late December 2015, the folks at Siren Fleet invited a writer, videographer and I to dive onboard S/Y Philippine Siren. The 130-foot (40 m) luxury liveaboard features eight comfortable cabins, a large outdoor dining area with family-style seating, and a spacious dive deck. As an avid photographer, I was especially interested in the photo facilities. There are designated indoor and outdoor workstations for charging and preparing your gear, as well as roomy storage drawers for your odds and ends.

Photography onboard the Philippine Siren

I didn't bring my regular set up with me. Instead, I brought a point-and-shoot video set up, and was still able to capture great images. The diving off the Philippine Siren was nothing short of spectacular. We dove mainly around Dauin, which meant lots of muck diving, as well as a visit to the hard-coral paradise of Apo Island. Finally, we participated in the somewhat controversial whale-shark snorkel experience in Oslob. A trip onboard the Philippine Siren is perfect for all sorts of divers and photographers, from novice to pro. Here's a quick gallery to showcase some of what we saw — and what you could too — onboard the Philippine Siren.

The post Diving Onboard the S/Y Philippine Siren appeared first on Scuba Diver Life.

from Scuba Diver Life http://ift.tt/2gzbE2N