Topaz: 2008 Airfares Cheaper Through Agencies (Source: btnonline.com) Airfares booked last year through corporate travel agencies cost on average $61 less than identical itineraries booked through airline Web sites or online travel retailers, according to a Topaz International study on client data released this week. United Airlines hikes baggage fees (Source: eyefortravel.com) United Airlines is adding an extra $5 charge for travelers who pay their baggage fee at the airport instead of online. The move matches a change announced by US Airways last month. Traveline will be happy to provide you with the latest summary of baggage fees for the airlines – please ask your agent to forward a copy to you. Boutique Hotel Opens in Chicago A new 100-room boutique hotel, the River Hotel, is expected to open this month in Chicago's Mather Tower, near the Magnificent Mile. The property, occupying floors 3 to 10 of the tower, will be managed by Club Quarters.