AIRLINES

NEW SERVICE TO CALIFORNIA, THE BAHAMAS

Virgin America said it will begin flying to Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International, the carrier's 10th and newest destination, Nov. 18. Virgin America will fly daily round-trip flights from its West Coast bases of San Francisco and Los Angeles. A few hours after Virgin America's announcement, JetBlue said it too would begin service between Fort Lauderdale and San Francisco on Nov. 17. Fare wars, anyone?

American Eagle said it will add nonstop service between Miami International Airport and Harbour Island; Treasure Cay, Abaco; and Governors Harbour in the Bahamas, beginning Nov. 19. The American Airlines affiliate also announced additional service from Miami to two existing destinations in the Bahamas, adding a second daily nonstop to Marsh Harbour and resuming seasonal daily nonstop service to Exuma.

HOTELS

GLAM L.A. LANDMARK CLOSING FOR A MAKEOVER

The Hotel Bel-Air, which has served Hollywood stars since the 1940s, is closing for a glamorous makeover. Hotel spokeswoman Alisha Mahon says the Los Angeles landmark will close at the end of September for a two-year upgrade that includes building villas and spa facilities.

The hotel has accommodated stars ranging from Cary Grant and Marilyn Monroe to Nicole Kidman. It was built in 1946 and underwent a $20-million renovation in 2006.

HOT DEALS

TRAVEL BARGAINS AROUND THE GLOBE

• The U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Tourism is giving a free fourth night, plus hundreds of dollars in coupons, through its Sizzlin' Sampler promotion. Receive a free fourth night at nearly 30 participating properties on St. John, St. Croix and St. Thomas, in addition to a $50 dining coupon, a $50 attractions coupon and a booklet of discounts for island businesses. Deal is valid only on stays of four nights or longer. Book by Oct. 15; travel by Oct. 31. For info on the promotion and a list of booking agents: www.visitusvi.com/package_and_promotions. For general info: 800-372-USVI.

• Oceania Cruises is offering two-for-one fares, plus additional discounts of up to $4,000 and free airfare, on its South American sailings in 2010. The promotion, valid on three itineraries, also includes a $500 shipboard credit and free prepaid gratuities, both per cabin. Savings and prices vary per trip. Port charges, air taxes and surcharges are extra. Book by Aug. 31. Details at 800-531-5619 or

www.oceaniacruises.com.

• Book a minimum two-night ski vacation at Stowe Mountain Lodge in Vermont for travel Nov. 28-Dec. 18 and receive discounts of more than 25 percent. Reservations must be made by Aug. 31 at 888-478-6938 or www.stowemountainlodge.com. Request booking code FIRSTTRACKS.

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