1. Try river cruisingMillions of people sign up for cruises every year, but growing numbers are ditching the world’s oceans and opting for a river cruise, instead. And river cruisers getting younger too, thanks in part of a number of cruise lines going all out to target younger passengers. Take river cruising specialist U by Uniworld, which is targeting 21 to 45 year-olds with adrenaline-fueled onshore activities like rock climbing and rafting, while onboard, there’ll be DJs, rooftop lounges and yoga classes. Our tip? If you’re new to cruising, start with something short-haul rather than jumping in at the deep end with a Mekong river excursion. Cruises down the Rhine or Danube are just as spectacular and a great way for first timers to dip their toe into the world of river cruising. Related10 most awesome adventure activities in Australia and New ZealandBored of bungee? From swimming with sharks to walking in the sky, 10 of the most exciting, extreme activities in Aus & NZ.Solo travel for seniors – your optionsFrom walking holidays to yoga retreats and cruises, we take a look at the options available for seniors planning their first solo travel experience.The ultimate holiday bucket list for your trip to ChinaChina is home to ancient wonders and modern marvels, from the breathtaking Great Wall to the spiky futuristic skyline of Shanghai. If you’re planning a trip of a lifetime to the Middle Kingdom, make sure to tick off these 10 must-see destinations in China – all of which are easy… 5. Explore the Peruvian AmazonLast year, British Airways’ launched the UK’s first direct flights to Peru, and the number of visitors to landmarks like Machu Picchu went through the roof. This beginner’s guide to Peru is perfect if you haven’t been before. The better news? There are still plenty of ways to get off the beaten track. Some of the best rainforest lodges in Peru can be found in the Tambopata National Park. Although the area’s been protected from over-development, you’ll still find a range of accommodation options, ranging from luxurious lodges to rustic tree houses high above the treeline. If you’re feeling brave, opt to stay at one of the remote research stations – many take a small number of guests, who share their accommodation with the scientists working there. One of our favourites is the Tambopata Research Center, a two-day trip downriver from the jungle town of Puerto Maldonado. 2. Chill out on the Cambodian coastThe Thai islands are officially full, which is why people are looking for alternatives to Phuket, Phi Phi and Koh Samui. This is where Cambodia comes in. Set sail for the coastline of this beautiful country in 2018 and you’ll discover a spectacular world of lush rainforests, diverse wildlife and some of the friendliest people in the world. If you’re wondering where to stay in Cambodia, we recommend heading to Sihanoukville, which has some of the country’s largest (but still wonderfully cheap) beach resorts, or to Cambodia’s Koh Rong Islands, which are located in the Gulf of Thailand. We also love Kep. Originally known as Kep-sur-Mer, this was a glamorous beach resort for the first half of the twentieth century. It’s now one of Cambodia’s most popular destinations for backpackers, thanks to a growing number of beach hut resorts. Prices start at around £30 for a night in a two-person beach bungalow (find your own beach bungalow here). 3. Cycle your way around SingaporeNorwegian’s new Gatwick to Singapore flights mean it’s now possible to get to Asia’s garden city for around £400 (singles start from £150). And it’s the perfect time to discover this beautiful destination. The city-state’s contract with F1 has just been renewed, making 2018 the ideal time to watch the famous night time street circuit race, and it’s now even easier to explore Singapore’s green spaces, thanks to two new bike share schemes (OFO and O-bike). The fact that more and more people are exploring the city by bike has convinced the government to create a fantastic new cycling route. The Connector Trail winds between Singapore’s many parks. Our advice? Start by pedaling your way over to Windsor Park, a protected nature reserve where you’ll find monkeys, turtles, butterflies and lizards. Read our quick guide to Singapore before departing for the best street food and attractions too! 7. Get back to basics in St HelenaKeen to really get away from it all? Head to St Helena, the world’s most remote island. Luckily, getting there is now significantly easier. This year saw the launch of the first flights to St Helena, a volcanic tropical island in the South Atlantic Ocean which is 4,000 kilometres east of Rio de Janeiro and 1,950 kilometres west of the African continent. In the past, anyone hoping to visit the island would have had to spend several weeks on the cargo ship which delivered the island’s post. The (admittedly few) travellers who visit St Helena are drawn by the wildlife and the spectacular, volcanic landscape. It’s also got a fascinating history – Napoleon Bonaparte was exiled to the island in 1815, and he died there in 1821. Are you an adrenaline junkie searching for your next big adventure? Here’s where to to go to get your next fix!The 10 most awesome adventures in Australia and New ZealandHow to scare yourself silly in Australia and New Zealand.10 epic road trip adventuresProof that you can sign up for an adventure without leaving the comfort of your car.Top tips for solo adventurersOur essential guide to going it alone.Skyscanner is the world’s travel search engine, helping your money go further on flights, hotels and car hire.ReturnOne wayMulti-cityFromAdd nearby airports ToAdd nearby airportsDepart14/08/2019Return21/08/2019Cabin Class & Travellers1 adult, EconomyDirect flights onlySearch flights Map
8. Go star-spotting in ChileChile is another place which has recently become more accessible, thanks to a new direct flight launched by British Airways. Top Chile attractions include the Torres Del Paine National Park, vibrant Santiago and the coastal haven of Valparaíso, but in recent years it’s become one of the world’s top stargazing destinations. Our favourite spot is the Atacama Desert, which is also one of the world’s darkest places, thanks to the lack of light pollution. There are a number of hotels (we love the Elqui Domos, which has telescopes in every bedroom) and more observatories are opening to the public, too. One of the most famous is the Alma observatory, which recently guided tours. 9. Learn how to be a cowboy (or girl) in TexasThis next adventure is another one brought to you courtesy of a new flight route – in this case, Norwegian’s UK-to-Austin route, which launches in early 2018. We love Austin for its sheer quirkiness (its logo is Keep Austin Weird, after all) but it’s the wide open spaces of Texas which are putting the Lone Star State on the map. Whether you dream of learning how to work a lasoe, or simply want to saddle up for a horseback exploration of this beautiful part of America, there are a wide range of ranches to choose from. Top picks include the Flying L Guest Ranch & Villas, which is ideal for families (amenities include a water park, tennis course and golf course) while wannabe Lone Rangers looking for something for authentic will love the Silver Spur Guest Ranch, where you can channel your inner cowboy with long-distance horseback rides or sign up for hayrides, campfires dinners and fossil digs. 6. Sign up for a vineyard tour in Sonoma (the new Napa Valley)Napa Valley is so last year. Head to Sonoma, which is a short drive from San Francisco, and you’ll find over 400 vineyards dotting a spectacular stretch of the Pacific Ocean, along with 50 state and regional parks. And no matter when you head to this beautiful part of the world, there’s sure to be an event taking place, whether it’s the Sonoma Country Harvest Fair or the region’s regular wine and food festivals. Our favourite wineries include BobDog Wines (Sonoma’s highest vineyard) and Roche Winery & Vineyards, famous for its Pinot Noir. 4. Visit the Florida Keys’ lesser-known islandsTop of your “to do” list for 2018 should be some Floridian island-hopping. Venture beyond tourist meccas such as Key West to islands like Marathon and Islamorada and you’ll discover cheaper prices, fewer tourists and deserted beaches straight out of a Bounty advert. The Lower Keys have some of the best wildlife, including the ridiculously cute Key deer. Although accommodation options on these islands are more limited than in other areas of the Florida Keys, there’s still something for everyone, including a handful of luxury resorts alongside campsites and independent hotels. 10. Swim with whale sharks in the SeychellesNew flights are certainly helping opening up the world in 2018, and it’s a great year for adventurers. British Airways are launching direct flights from Gatwick to the Seychelles in early 2018, and if you thought dolphin watching sounded rather tame, why not consider swimming with whale sharks? A number of tour operators offer this unique activity, although if you prefer something land-based, you’re also in luck. Top of the list would be an exhaustion-inducing hike through the UNESCO-listed Vallée de Mai on Praslin, a glass-bottomed boat tour and a paragliding excursion.
Source = e-Travel Blackboard: G.A NSW Premier Kristina Keneally was mid-speech at Sydney’s Hilton Hotel when a bomb threat was called in, forcing an evacuation of all guests at the hotel’s events.“The evacuation was conducted with the assistance of the emergency services and all guests and staff from the event floors were evacuated safely,” Hilton Hotel said. Ms Keneally was among 420 guests of the Annual Australia-India Business Council Dinner, along with Indian high commissioner, Sujata Singh, NSW Opposition Leader, Barry O’Farrell, and former premier Neville Wran, reported the Sydney Morning Herald. The guests fled the building after police advised the telephone threat was “credible”.“As happens unfortunately often it was a threat to the hotel,” Hilton Hotel General Manager Paul Hutton told the newspaper, stressing the bomb threat was not directed specifically at Ms Keneally or the function. The eventual cancellation of the dinner caused much disappointment from the event’s guests and organisers.“We have spent months and months of work on this dinner,” Australia-India Business Council NSW President Dipen Rughani said, reported the newspaper.“The most important thing is to protect lives,” he said after describing the financial loss incurred from the dinner’s cancellation.After police conducted a search of the hotel’s event space they advised normal operations could resume.Last night’s bomb threat was all too reminiscent of the 1978 Sydney Hilton Hotel bombing, Sydney’s most serious bombing, which threatened lives of Commonwealth heads of government and killed two rubbish collectors and a policeman. <a href=”http://www.etbtravelnews.global/click/28d68/” target=”_blank”><img src=”http://adsvr.travelads.biz/www/delivery/avw.php?zoneid=10&cb=INSERT_RANDOM_NUMBER_HERE&n=a5c63036″ border=”0″ alt=””></a>
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Source = e-Travel Blackboard: P.T e-Travel Blackboard would like to wish each and every one of our loyal readers a very merry and safe festive season.Our offices will close for the holidays from Friday 24 December through to Tuesday 28 December 2010, inclusive. If you have any editorial queries during this period please email sales@etravelblackboard.com and we will tend to your request as soon as we re-commence business on Wednesday 29 December 2010.e-Travel Blackboard will also be closed on 3 January 2011, set to re-open on 4 January 2011. Thank you for all your support throughout 2010 and we look forward to providing you with the most informative, up-to-date travel industry news in 2011. Happy Holidays!e-Travel Blackboard team
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Source = e-Travel Blackboard: N.J Google has launched a new search tool for travellers looking to explore their hotel and attraction choices before takeoff.Unveiling the experimental site earlier this week, Hotel Finder provides holiday-makes with a number of avenues to select a hotel, discover it and then book it.Like any Google search engine, travellers can search for a property by typing the name into the bar or select a destination and then filter through options by selecting preferred check-in and check-out dates, price or hotel stars.After hitting search, the engine then supplies the viewer with a selection of choices. Travellers can then click a hotel, see its location using Google Maps and flick through photos of the hotel.Once the hotel shopper has selected their desired hotel they can then check out prices on various online booking engines including Expedia, Hotels.com or Booking.com to name a few. Great or nothing new, what are your thoughts on the new hotel search site? Google Hotel Finder 
Pictured L -R: Patrick Benhamou, Regional Manager Atout France presents Clive Scott, General Manager Sofitel Melbourne on Collins with his Gold Tourism Medal Sofitel Melbourne On Collins’ General Manager, Clive Scott, was honoured to be presented with the Gold Tourism Medal by ATOUT France’s Regional Manager, Patrick Benhamou, at an Elegant French Soiree held at the hotel recently. The Tourism Medal was created in 1989 to reward people who, through their voluntary or professional contribution as well as through the length and quality of service given, have productively contributed to tourism development in France and overseas.The medal is awarded twice a year, and Clive Scott is the only person in Australia to receive this honour. On presenting the medal, Patrick Benhamou said, “On behalf of Sylvia Pinel, French Minister of Tourism, I am delighted to give the Gold Tourism Medal to Clive Scott, General Manager of Sofitel Melbourne On Collins, to honour and thank him for being a true ambassador and spokesman of the French Art de Vivre. For the past 20 years, Clive has contributed to the success of our French events in Australia, he delivers what he promises, with talent, precision, and above all with passion and enthusiasm.”Clive Scott has worked in the hotel industry for more than 30 years of which the last 10 have been managing Sofitel’s in both Sydney and Melbourne. During these years, Clive has worked closely with ATOUT France hosting many events at these hotels to promote tourism to France. He successfully organised for the famous Moulin Rouge dancers to come to Australia for the first time for the opening of the Sofitel Sydney Wentworth after a major renovation in 2005, and is a devotee to all things French, having travelled there on numerous occasions. Source = Accor
New toolkit helps NSW Tourism operators attract Chinese visitorsDestination NSW is helping tourism business across the State tap into the profitable Chinese market with a free toolkit released today containing tips and insights to help the industry target Chinese travellers.Minister for Trade, Tourism and Major Events Stuart Ayres said the China Market Toolkit contains valuable research insights as well as practical advice on how best to cater to Chinese visitors, including developing and delivering appealing experiences for the growing market.“The toolkit provides tips from providing Chinese menu options or tailored kitchen facilities in self-catered accommodation, to developing Chinese language marketing collateral and culturally appropriate tours and itineraries,” Mr Ayres said.“Visitation to NSW from Chinese visitors continues to grow, with the latest International Visitor Survey data showing visitation from China was up 17.8 per cent for the year ending December 2014, presenting an enormous opportunity for NSW tourism businesses.”Destination NSW Chief Executive Officer Sandra Chipchase said the toolkit is a useful resource for tourism businesses across the State.“The toolkit includes detailed advice on marketing and distributing tourism products through traditional and online channels, as well as tips on Chinese business culture and etiquette, and details of industry contacts including Destination NSW’s offices in China,” she said.“The China Market Toolkit aligns with Destination NSW’s China Tourism Strategy, helping tourism operators meet the growing demand from this market. It is free to access and contains useful information designed to help businesses better understand what appeals to Chinese visitors and how they might develop and market products and experiences to suit them.”The China Market Toolkit can be downloaded for free now at destinationnsw.com.au/chinatoolkit Source = Destination NSW
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Nature wonderland: Hoshino Resorts TOMAMUHoshino Resorts TOMAMU offers a world of natural beauty, recreational enjoyment and much more – all year-roundThe new ‘Nature Wonderland’ campaign showcases the wide variety of activities you can experience at Hoshino Resorts TOMAMU throughout the year. During the winter season the main attraction is of course skiing and snowboarding, however, there are also other great activities to enjoy such as the ‘Ice Village’. The resort also boast the largest indoor wave pool in Japan (Mina-Mina Beach), over 20 restaurants in Tomamu and a street dedicated to shopping (hotalu street), so there is plenty for everyone to see and do. There are also countless attractions within an easy distance of the resort such as Asahiyama Zoo and Shirogane Blue Pond and many more. We are launching a new website and short movies to enable Australians to discover more about the Nature Wonderland of Hokkaido, Japan.Nature Wonderland website: https://www.snowtomamu.jp/nwl/en/Ice Village meets Winter Wonderland (Snow season)This unique Ice Village only appears during winter at Tomamu. Surrounded by the natural beauty of the pristine wilderness and under the starry night sky, this enchantingly lit frozen Ice Village has plenty to offer; an Ice Hotel, the unique Bar Icewood, the Ice Slide, Ice Skating and even an Ice Chapel. This mystical world of snow invites guests to experience the magic of winter, with temperatures sometimes even reaching -30°C.Ice Village opens from mid-December 2018 – to early March 2019.Terrace of Frost Tree (Snow season)Frost trees are formed by ice from cold winds blowing over the tree branches and only occurs when the temperature falls below freezing. The Terrace of Frost Tree can be accessed by a gondola ride through the Hidaka Mountains. The white trees covered in snow are a magnificent sight that can also be enjoyed from the Tenbou Café at the UNKAI Terrace. There is also a 200m mountain walking trail running between the Terrace of Frost Tree and the Cloud Walk at the UNKAI Terrace for guests to explore. An exclusive light-up event is held in December during the Christmas season.Immerse yourself in a sea of clouds at the UNKAI Terrace (Green season)One of main attractions at Tomamu during the green season is the UNKAI Terrace. Wake up bright and early to take the gondola up to a height of 1,088m above sea level into a sea of white clouds. Enjoy the sensation of floating among the clouds while lying in a giant hammock in the sky. The hammock’s design takes inspiration from the clouds and can be enjoyed by up to 10 people at a time. A new attraction at the UNKAI Terrace, Cloud Bar will be open in September 2018. UNKAI Terrace opens from 12 May to 15 October 2018.About Hoshino Resorts TOMAMUHoshino Resorts TOMAMU is the most family-friendly ski resort in Japan. It is particularly renowned for its high-quality powder snow with 29 trails offering a great variety for skiers of all levels. There are two ski-in / ski-out hotels on the property which are the 5-star all-suite hotel ‘RISONARE Tomamu’ and the 4-star hotel ‘Tomamu The Tower’. Staying at Tomamu also allows easy access to explore other parts of Hokkaido – from backcountry guided tours in winter, to numerous other activities allowing guests to experience the four distinctive seasons of Hokkaido throughout the year.About Hoshino ResortsHoshino Resorts, the leading hotel management company in Japan, was founded in 1904 as a forestry business in Nagano Prefecture, Japan and opened its first hot spring resort in 1914. The company was rebranded by the current CEO, Yoshiharu Hoshino in 1995 as Hoshino Resorts and it has since expanded across Japan with a focus on local culture and tradition. Hoshino Resorts has developed three separate hospitality brands over the years aimed at different audiences. Besides its flagship HOSHINOYA, it also operates the KAI, RISONARE, and OMO. Hoshino Resorts now operates 35 properties around Japan, and 2 properties overseas (in Tahiti and Bali).URL: https://www.hoshinoresorts.com/en/
Source = Treasury on Collins Melbourne’s hidden gem shares the secret of successMelbourne’s hidden gem shares the secret of successOften referred to as a ‘hidden gem’ Treasury on Collins is tucked away inside a heritage listed building on prestigious Collins Street in Melbourne and if you blink you’ll probably miss it. There are no neon lights or bold signs for the hotel, just some discreet brass plaques and a wrought iron door way.The vision for success at Treasury on Collins has always been based on exceeding guest expectations, value for money and doing things differently. While many hotels have business models offering low base pricing and then adding extra costs for just about everything, Treasury on Collins does the exact opposite by offering ‘all inclusive’ pricing.The hotel is driven to consistently exceed guest expectations so when it opened its guest lounge, on the beautiful mezzanine, there were no Club memberships or exclusive packages. All guests receive complimentary lounge access to enjoy beverages, snacks and immerse themselves in the wonderful ambience of this heritage listed showpiece.Treasury on Collins was one of the first hotels to offer complimentary, high speed, unlimited WiFi for all guests when other hotels were still charging and limiting downloads. Instead of pay per view movies the hotel installed Netflix and offers the service free for all guests. The hotel even rewards guests who book directly with a free breakfast and complimentary Tahbilk wine from 4pm to 6pm daily.John Domjan, Front Office Manager said… ”it didn’t take savvy travellers long to work out that we actually offer incredible value ….and the positive guest reviews and recommendations are now roll-in, and our return guest numbers keep growing.”As a truly independent hotel, Treasury on Collins set-out to redefine hospitality, shake-up traditions and prove that when you exceed guest expectations with amazing value and service, then success will surely follow.Special Festive OfferWith the festive season upon us, guests who book a minimum 2 night stay between 14-25 December 2018 or 1-13 January 2019 will receive a 10 piece luxury Molton Brown Treasures Gift set valued at $70 per booking while stocks last*. Molton Brown is currently Treasury on Collin’s preferred bathroom amenity product. Conditions apply.Treasury on Collins Apartment Hotel, 394 Collins Street, Melbournewww.treasuryoncollins.com.au, reservations@treasuryoncollins.com.au or call 03 8535 8535 Treasury on Collins is a heritage-listed apartment hotel situated in the heart of Melbourne’s city centre. Ideal for both corporate and leisure travellers who enjoy the comfort and convenience of apartment style boutique accommodation Book directly with the hotel and save 10% plus receive complimentary breakfast, afternoon Wine Down from 4-6pm, room upgrade*, late check-out until noon and flexible 24 hour cancellation policy. *subject to availability.
Source = voco™ St.John’s, Solihull New hotel brand voco™ opens in the West Midlands, UKNew hotel brand voco™ opens in the West Midlands, UKThe 180-room voco™ St. John’s, Solihull has recently opened under the voco™ brand, offering a distinct, unstuffy and exciting new hotel offering in the upmarket town.The hotel which was previously St John’s Solihull, has benefitted from the voco™ brand’s bold and distinctive design, with deep colours adding depth and warmth to public spaces and a touch of the brand’s charming character to guest rooms. voco™, inspired by the meaning ‘to invite’ or to ‘come together’ in Latin, combines the informality and charm of an individual hotel, with the quality and reassurance of a global and respected brand.Located in the market town of Solihull, consistently voted one of the UK’s best places to live, the hotel is walking distance to the town centre and Solihull Train Station, and just five miles from Birmingham Airport.The hotel’s guest rooms are filled with thoughtful comforts like cosy bedding, luxury Aveda bathroom amenities, and fast Wi-Fi, so guests can indulge in some ‘me time’ when they stay at voco™. Guests and locals can also enjoy a taste of ‘voco™ life’ at the recently refurbished brasserie six5one– whether it’s a quiet morning coffee, catching up with friends over afternoon tea, or kicking off a great evening.voco™ St.John’s, Solihull also features a fully equipped health club including an indoor swimming pool, sauna and gym facilities, a restaurant and bar, business centre and 13 meeting spaces to cater to a variety of events. From weddings to corporate meetings, these event spaces host up to 700 guests.Solihull is dotted with historic architecture including timber-framed Tudor houses and shops. The leafy borough offers visitors a countryside haven with 1,500 acres of parkland as well as beautiful West Midlands countryside right on the doorstep, making it a great option for travellers looking to get outside of the city.It also has a strong history in automotive manufacturing and is the home of Jaguar Land Rover and boasts The National Motorcycle Museum housing the largest collection of British motorcycles in the world with over 1,000 machines from 171 different manufacturers.voco™ Gold Coast opened the doors as the first voco hotel in the world. Since it opened in November 2018, it has been joined by voco™ St. David’s, Cardiff and now voco™ St. John’s, Solihull, with voco™ Kirkton Park Hunter Valley due to open in March 2019. There are more than ten hotels in the pipeline around the world – in the UK, Dubai, Thailand, The Netherlands, Egypt, Saudi Arabia and Cyprus – as well as properties in Melbourne, and Yarra Valley in Australia.To learn more about voco™ and to book direct, visit: www.vocohotels.com.
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OTM Mumbai was an excellent opportunity for us to engage with the travel trade and reach out to many more travel partners that may have not been exposed to the Scandinavian region. It was not only very well attended but professionally organised and we hope to be a part of such opportunities in future as well.
The Royal Opera House Muscat (ROHM), Oman’s premier venue for musical arts and culture has announced an exciting line-up of performances for the forthcoming season, 2017-2018: A Legendary Season. After marking its sixth anniversary this year, the Royal Opera House Muscat will commence its seventh season with a wide range of top quality productions in many different genres-opera, concerts, ballet & dance, Arab performances, jazz, world music, musicals, education and more.“The Royal Opera House is one of a kind opera house in the Middle East which reflects contemporary Omani architecture and has a capacity to accommodate around 1,100 people. Watching a performance at the opulent state-of-the-art Royal Opera House in Muscat, where world class operas and musicians perform round the year; is a privilege one should not miss out on. The great lineup of performances in the upcoming season can be enjoyed by all age groups, and special performances like Cinderella, Peter Pan will mesmerise children,” said Lubaina Sheerazi, India Representative, Ministry of Tourism, Oman.The new season will open in September with Giuseppe Verdi’s grand masterpiece ‘Aida’, set in ancient Egypt and brilliantly performed by world-class artists. Other highlights of the Opera performances include great romantic and tragic works like Vincenzo Bellini’s Norma, Ruggero Leoncavallo’s Pagliacci (Clowns); and delightful operas that gives joy Gioachino Rossini’s L’Occasione fa il Ladro (Opportunity Makes a Thief) and Vincenzo Bellini’s La Sonnambula (The Sleepwalker) and many more.
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October 9, 2012 471 Views Share White Van VP Earns Third Term on NAMFS Board The “”National Association of Mortgage Field Services””:http://namfs.org/ (NAMFS) re-elected VP of “”White Van Real Estate Services””:http://www.whitevanres.com/, Kris Katoa, for a third term as a board member. [IMAGE]Katoa was elected to the 2012-2014 board of directors for NAMFS, a trade association representing the mortgage field service industry. [COLUMN_BREAK] Katoa has been a member of NAMFS for more than 13 years and previously served two terms on the organization’s board and on the committee for its 2011 National Conference. Katoa joined White Van, a subsidiary of “”Carrington Holding Company””:http://www.carringtonhc.com/default.aspx, in 2011. Currently at White Van, she is responsible for client relations and vendor management and holds 22 years of experience in the field services industry. “”I’m pleased to once again have Kris Katoa serve on our board, where her keen industry insight and passion for customer service have long been recognized as valuable assets to meeting our goals,”” said Eric Miller, executive director for NAMFS. “”Our organization appreciates White Van supporting the field services industry by allowing her to participate.”” White Van Real Estate Services, L.P. offers a range of inspection, property preservation, maintenance and repair services to lenders, servicers and asset managers, as well as institutional clients, private real estate investors and real estate agents.
in Data, Government, Origination, Secondary Market, Servicing, Technology Agents & Brokers Attorneys & Title Companies Company News Investors Lenders & Servicers Movers & Shakers Processing Service Providers 2012-10-09 Esther Cho
RES.NET Expands Platform to Serve Traditional Real Estate Market Agents & Brokers Attorneys & Title Companies Company News Investors Lenders & Servicers Processing Service Providers 2012-12-19 Tory Barringer Share in Data, Government, Origination, Secondary Market, Servicing, Technology
“”RES.NET””:http://www.res.net/Home is expanding beyond the world of defaults and into the realm of traditional real estate, the company announced.[IMAGE]Originally introduced in 2004 as a technology solution for the default space, the California-based firm has evolved its platform to enhance retail (or traditional) real estate transactions. In a release, RES.NET said its goal is to enable agents to perform tasks improve communications to “”better meet the demands of today’s tech-savvy consumers while gaining the accessibility and accountability to operate more productively and improve their businesses.””One of the RES.NET platform’s cloud-based portals, the Agent Portal, connects agents to other real estate professionals, buyers, and sellers and allows them to handle every aspect of a sale through a single centralized system–or on-the-go through a mobile application. Agents can define their task workflow, input details on their properties (including photos and videos), and send and sign documents using e-signature technology.The portal also allows agents to access RES.NET’s offer submission link tool, enabling them to submit offers to listing agents directly through the platform instead of mailing or faxing paper documents. The system gives agents more control to manage offers, negotiations, and counter offers, resulting in faster closings.Todd Mobraten, COO and president of RES.NET, said the company’s expansion into the traditional market is a response to the growth of its network (which now includes more than 200,000 users) and the continued evolution of real estate.””With more than 80 percent of consumers now beginning their home search online, it is important for agents to leverage technology that meets their expectations,”” Mobraten said. “”With the platform agents can eliminate communication gaps and securely share information in an automated, paperless environment or even from a mobile device, which minimizes their time in front of the computer and lets them focus on serving homebuyers, cultivating relationships and increasing their business opportunities.”” December 19, 2012 423 Views 
New,GMH Mortgage Services Names Associate VP of Recruiting “”GMH Mortgage Services””:https://gmhmortgage.com/, a nationally recognized mortgage banker headquartered in Pennsylvania, announced the addition of Brian Beale as associate VP of corporate recruiting.[IMAGE]Beale has more than 12 years of talent acquisition experience in the mortgage industry and most recently worked at GMAC Mortgage, where he served as director of retail recruiting strategy. During his tenure there, he [COLUMN_BREAK]recruited more than 200 employees, an increase of 110 percent over previous years. He also increased the number of offers and hires made year-over-year while bringing down the licensure failure rate of loan officers by more than 30 percent.””Brian has a tremendous depth of knowledge and a wealth of experience in recruiting and acquiring top talent in the mortgage industry,”” said Frank DiMaio, SVP of national retail sales for GMH. “”His vast network of strategic relationships and alliances is a huge asset to GMH as we build a world-class team of talent that is dedicated to driving revenue growth and maintaining our ‘best in class’ customer service model.””””GMH Mortgage has proven time and again that they are committed to providing unrivaled service to their customers and valued business partners by building a strategic model of successful, goal-oriented professionals who thrive on exceeding expectations,”” Beale said. “”I’m truly excited to be part of this growing organization, and utilize the recruiting networks I’ve developed over my career to strengthen our talent pool nationally.”” in Data, Government, Origination, Secondary Market, Servicing Share
July 19, 2013 446 Views Agents & Brokers Attorneys & Title Companies GMH Mortgage Investors Lenders & Servicers Movers & Shakers Processing Service Providers 2013-07-19 Tory Barringer
Consumer spending Deloitte New Home Prices Unemployment 2014-04-18 Tory Barringer April 18, 2014 463 Views in Daily Dose, Data, Headlines, News Consumer Spending Gauge Takes Hit as Home Prices Slow
Share After a fairly flat February, Deloitte’s gauge of consumer spending declined a substantial half a point in March, the business advisory company reported.The Deloitte Consumer Spending Index, a measure of consumer cash flow as an indicator of future spending, fell from a revised reading of 4.03 in February to 3.51 in March.Despite the drop, Deloitte maintains that conditions remain positive for consumers.“The outlook for consumer spending remains healthy,” said Daniel Bachman, senior U.S. economist for the firm, adding, “The Index declined primarily due to a slower increase in median home prices.”Real new home prices—just one of the index’s four components—climbed slightly over the month to $111,000 and were up a paltry 0.8 percent over the year. That bump is down from a 5.5 percent increase in the 12 months leading up to January.“While housing prices are cooling off a bit, possibly due to the weather, there is no indication that the inventory of houses for sale has suddenly picked up,” Bachman added.Indeed, though Realtor.com revealed in a recent report that its national inventory was up 5.6 percent month-over-month in March, the company also noted that more local markets indicated a drop in supply, and a slowdown in new for-sale homes may be coming.Meanwhile, Deloitte’s other spending gauges were mostly mixed. According to the company, the nation’s tax burden held steady in March for the fourth straight month at 11.8 percent, real wages showed a gradual year-over-year increase to $8.86, and initial unemployment claims came in down from last year but up from February.
The Week Ahead: Keeping an Eye on Construction Spending March 1, 2019 880 Views in Daily Dose, Featured, News, Origination, Servicing The U.S. Census Bureau will release data for new construction spending on Monday at 10 a.m. EST. The bureau’s last release revealed that construction spending during November 2018 was estimated at a seasonally adjusted annual rate of $1,299.9 billion, 0.8 percent above the revised October estimate of $1,289.7 billion. The November figure is 3.4 percent above the November 2017 estimate of $1,257.3 billion. During the first eleven months of this year, construction spending amounted to $1,200.7 billion, 4.5 percent above the $1,149.3 billion for the same period in 2017. Here’s what else is happening in the week ahead:CoreLogic Home Price Insights report, Tuesday, 10 a.m. ESTMBA Mortgage Applications, Wednesday, 7 a.m. ESTCensus Bureau New Home Sales, Wednesday, 10 a.m. ESTEllie Mae Millennial Tracker, Wednesday, 10 a.m. ESTFederal Reserve Beige Book, Wednesday, 2 p.m. ESTBlack Knight Mortgage Monitor, 9 a.m. ESTFed Balance Sheet, Thursday, 4:30 p.m. ESTBureau of Labor Statistics Jobs Report, Friday, 8:30 a.m. ESTCensus Bureau Housing Starts, Friday, 8:30 AM ET 
US Census Bureau Construction 2019-03-01 Donna Joseph Share
Cardinals expect improving Murphy to contribute right away D-backs president Derrick Hall: Franchise ‘still focused on Arizona’ Comments Share PHOENIX – Arizona Cardinals president Michael Bidwill sent a letter to the team’s season ticket holders last week, addressing an underwhelming 2010 season and continuing labor negotiations surrounding the NFL. Bidwill thanked fans for their support through the 5-11 season and promised the team would get back to evaluating how to reach the playoffs next year. “Our singular focus now is returning to the type of football that you have come to expect that led to back-to-back division titles, six playoff games in two years, a conference championship, and a Super Bowl appearance,” Bidwill said. Top Stories 
Nevada officials reach out to D-backs on potential relocation “We failed to meet that standard in 2010 and changes will be made. However, we remain fully confident in the plan that led to our success in recent years and remain committed to it.”Bidwill also addressed the current NFL collective bargaining agreement, set to expire on March 4, which would interrupt all football activities until the players and owners could reach a new agreement. Bidwill said he backs the league expanding from a 16-game schedule to an 18-game schedule, imposing a rookie wage scale to benefit veterans and retired players, and enhancing player safety on the field. “I know that I speak not only for myself but for all of our NFL business partners when I say that we are committed to work as hard as it takes to ensure that the game we all love emerges even stronger next season and for many years to come.” To read the entire letter the Cardinals sent to the season ticket holders, click here. What an MLB source said about the D-backs’ trade haul for Greinke
Grace expects Greinke trade to have emotional impact Comments Share Derrick Hall satisfied with D-backs’ buying and selling Once released by the New York Jets, Antonio Cromartie was a free agent able to sign with whatever team he wanted. After less than two weeks on the open market, he signed a one-year deal with the Arizona Cardinals.“I think the biggest part I was just surprised by not having, once I got released, the activity,” Cromartie admitted to Doug and Wolf on Arizona Sports 98.7 FM Monday. “That wasn’t there.” Top Stories Former Cardinals kicker Phil Dawson retires
Your browser does not support the audio element. LISTEN: Antonio Cromartie, Cardinals cornerback The 5: Takeaways from the Coyotes’ introduction of Alex Meruelo Except from Cardinals.“Once I got a call from Arizona and a few other teams started calling in, but Arizona just made me feel at home.”In Cromartie, the Cardinals have a player who has been to three Pro Bowls — including the last two — and who has 28 career interceptions over eight seasons with the San Diego Chargers and New York Jets.But he battled through a hip injury last season, which he says affected his performance on the field and likely led to the lack of interest in his services. He knows last season wasn’t a great one for him, as he failed to live up to expectations in the Big Apple.Now healthy, the 29-year-old (who will be 30 by Week 1) expects to bounce back and have a big season in the desert.“Right now I’m feeling 100 percent, and I’m just getting ready to go.”
The Arizona Cardinals have the second-best record in the NFL at 13-3.Most years, that would be enough to earn the top playoff seed in the conference, but this is not most years.It just so happens that the Carolina Panthers finished the season with a 15-1 record, and because they reside with the Cardinals in the NFC, it is they who are sitting in the conference’s top spot.But according to Cardinals fans, likely league MVP Cam Newton and his team are not who worry them most as Arizona pursues a berth in Super Bowl 50 in Santa Clara. Former Cardinals kicker Phil Dawson retires – / 39 Derrick Hall satisfied with D-backs’ buying and selling Our Sanderson Ford Poll Question of the Day asked who the biggest threat to Arizona is, and by a wide margin the vote went to the Seattle Seahawks.A total of 1,895 votes were cast, and 69 percent went to the team that blasted the Cardinals 36-6 in the regular season finale this past Sunday.After the game, Seattle cornerback Richard Sherman was asked about there being a growing concern among Cardinals fans that they could play the Seahawks in the playoffs.“They should be concerned,” he responded.So there you go.After Seattle, the only team to warrant enough votes to make anyone believe there is genuine concern is the Panthers, at 26 percent.The Packers, Vikings and Redskins combined for just five percent of the vote. Comments Share Top Stories The 5: Takeaways from the Coyotes’ introduction of Alex Meruelo Grace expects Greinke trade to have emotional impact
— Paul Calvisi (@PaulCalvisi) August 21, 2016Okafor tore his biceps tendon Friday against the San Diego Chargers, and Cardinals coach Bruce Arians said he had to make a choice between the two. It appears that choice has been made.The 25-year-old pass rusher had a breakout 2014 season, racking up eight sacks and one interception.He followed that up with just two sacks in 2015 — both in Week 1 — and had a disappointing end to the season, missing Arizona’s two playoff games because of a mysterious off the field incident that reportedly was hurting his toe in a swimming pool accident.Okafor has a lot to play for in 2016 besides bouncing back to his 2014 form. He’s in the final year of his rookie deal, but will have to earn his time on the field, as he’s currently listed second on the depth chart at strongside linebacker, behind offseason trade pickup Chandler Jones. – / 21 #AZCardinals LB Alex Okafor, who suffered a torn biceps tendon, is planning to play through it, rather than have surgery, I’m told. Tough.— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) August 21, 2016 0 Comments Share Bruce Arians at Sunday presser: “Alex Okafor has decided he’ll play” with bicep injury. Matter of pain tolerance per his return #CardsCamp Former Cardinals kicker Phil Dawson retires Linebacker Alex Okafor during OTAs. (Photo by Adam Green/Arizona Sports) Top Stories The 5: Takeaways from the Coyotes’ introduction of Alex Meruelo Arizona Cardinals linebacker Alex Okafor has chosen playing through his injury over a likely season-ending surgery. Derrick Hall satisfied with D-backs’ buying and selling Grace expects Greinke trade to have emotional impact
Grace expects Greinke trade to have emotional impact Nelson’s place in the Cardinals’ receiver pecking order is probably fluid, depending on injuries and other factors. What is certain, however, is that his speed — he ran a 4.28 40 at the NFL Draft Combine — is a weapon, and as he continues to refine his craft, he’ll be even more dangerous.And, given that Floyd is set to become a free agent after this season and Fitzgerald is nearing the end of his career, a bigger role for Nelson could be on the horizon. J.J. Nelson has done a solid job for the Cardinals since being drafted in the 5th round out of UAB last season.Known more for his speed than anything else, as a rookie he averaged 27.2 yards on 11 receptions, while scoring two touchdowns.Over the offseason, there was talk about how much he had progressed, and there was talk that a breakout season was in store. It took a little while, but a few weeks ago in Carolina Nelson had ascended to the No. 2 receiver role, and it seemed like the season of J.J. had formally arrived. 0 Comments Share Derrick Hall satisfied with D-backs’ buying and selling Arizona Cardinals wide receiver J.J. Nelson (14) runs for a first down after the catch as Seattle Seahawks cornerback DeShawn Shead (35) makes the tackle during the second half of a football game, Sunday, Oct. 23, 2016, in Glendale, Ariz. (AP Photo/Ross D. Franklin)
But then, two weeks later against the 49ers, Nelson lost a fumble and then later a drop led to an interception. He ultimately played on just 62 percent of the offensive snaps, behind receivers Larry Fitzgerald and Michael Floyd but ahead of John Brown.So, where does Nelson stand these days? That’s hard to say, though with 17 catches for 243 yards and two touchdowns on the season, he does seem to be trending up. And that, among other reasons, is why ESPN’s Rivers McCown, in an Insider piece listing “The NFL’s next breakout stars,” has the Arizona wideout 17th.Nelson has validated our faith in him by elevating to the No. 2 receiver job over John Brown and Michael Floyd. As we noted in the latest version of this piece, Nelson can fly. This year, he’s the only Arizona receiver with a positive DVOA (7.7 percent through Week 10), though that’s more an issue with Carson Palmer’s decline than the quality of Arizona’s receivers.Nelson isn’t physically imposing, and he doesn’t break many tackles. He wins by running by or around you. Although that sort of receiver isn’t normally going to be a dominant player, Nelson has thrived early in his career and looked better than the rest of his peers. Right now, the arrow is pointing strongly toward his being an effective version of Tavon Austin — you know, the one only Jeff Fisher sees on the field every Sunday.Sounds about right. Top Stories The 5: Takeaways from the Coyotes’ introduction of Alex Meruelo Former Cardinals kicker Phil Dawson retires