Best Hotel View of Times Square Ball Drop

Of all the New York hotels which are bunched in Manhattan, and specificially those in Times Square, which hotel has the best view of the Times Square Ball Drop on Dec 31? That would be, without any doubt, the Marriott Marquis.

You might be wondering why I'm writing this on Dec 31? Well, that's because the suites at the hotel which offer the best views of Times Square are booked solid a year in advance, and sometimes even more than that. So if you want to have any chance of being in a perfect location to see the Ball Drop without being engulfed by a sea of humanity and stuck on the streets of New York for well over half a day, then you have to book now for 2010, or for 2011.

So, what's the dope on the Marquis? Well, in their own words, "The Marriott Marquis sparkles with updated hotel rooms, high-speed elevators and six hotel restaurants and lounges. With area attractions such as Fifth Avenue shopping, Radio City Music Hall, Rockefeller Center, NBC Studios and Central Park just minutes away, a stay at this New York City hotel ensures that entertainment is just around the corner."

Plus, they have a 4000 sq ft fitness center overlooking Times Square. And what about those rooms with a view? In addition to wired internet inside the rooms and wirless in public areas, the rooms at the Marriott Marquis are equipped with a coffee maker, iron and ironing board, hair dryer and bathroom amenities, cable TV with pay per view movies, down comforters, custom duvets, cotton-rich linens, a pull-out sofa bed, rollaway bed and safe.

Info: 1535 Broadway New York NY 10036; (212) 398-1900; Web site.

New Year With a Capitol View at the Hyatt Regency Sacramento

I'm guessing most of you already have your New Year's Eve party plans finalized. But if you don't, then you could do a lot worse then end up at the Hyatt Regency Sacramento. For starters, it's one of the few Sacramento hotels with a clear view of the State Capitol from the rooms and the rooftop bar.

Secondly, if its good enough for the Governator, it should be good enough for just about anyone. California Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger had conned the state bureaucracy into renting him a Suite at the Hyatt Regency during weekdays, since his wife Maria Shriver is employed in Los Angeles, and they didn't want to have to maintain a second home in Sacramento.

Ok, so now that we've established that the Hyatt Regency is not so shabby a place to spend the last night of 2008 and ring in the New Year, let's see what they've got lined for revelers, in the form of entertainment, dining and overnight accomodations. As per their website, they have the following options:-

Amourath Lounge - join us in our lobby bar and enjoy complimentary music from 8:00pm - 12:30am. Sip champagne while listening to the sounds of Ryan Hernandez, who was recently voted the "Best New Big Thing" by the readers of Sacramento Magazine.

Dawson's - join us for a gourmet four course meal from Chef Ian Libberton and his culinary team. We will offer two seatings: 5:30pm and 8:00pm. Reservations required by calling 916-443-1234

Captiol View - our rooftop bar will be transformed into a lounge featuring the music of Carte Blanche, a four piece ensemble that plays a range of music from soft jazz to powerhouse dance music. The lounge will be open from 8:00pm - 1:00am. Reservations required by calling 916-443-1234

As for accomodations what you get with a simple guest room is stunning views of the Capitol, park or cathedral in a spacious 375-sq.-ft. room featuring balcony, stylish sitting area and one king or two double Grand Beds with ultra-plush pillows, the softest sheeting and thick down blankets–all piled upon pillow-top mattresses. Deluxe amenities include generous work area, Portico bath products, wireless Internet access, and complimentary newspaper. Rollaways available upon request. Rates from $199.

Info: 1209 L Street Sacramento CA 95814; (916) 443-1234; www.sacramento.hyatt.com/

French Kiss New Year's Eve at Omni San Diego

If you're gonna be in San Diego on Dec 31, then you gotta be in the Gaslamp Quarter to be able to do it right. By right, I mean the right spirit and the right quantity of spirits. And if you're with me so far, and we're in the Gaslamp, then you need to home in on the King of all the San Diego hotels, the first among equals, as far as uncorking the spirits and letting it all flow is concerned. That would be the Omni San Diego (www.omnisandiegohotel.com/).

And this year, in addition to all the rip-roaring, eardrum-shattering stuff, they're also pulling out some mushy and romantic smoochy stuff from their top-hat full of specials and packages. This one is called the French Kiss New Year's Eve, where you and a guest will enjoy an authentic French dinner along with bubbly Nicolas Feuillatte Champagne as you celebrate the New Year.

Includes luxe accommodations for 2, French cheeses and Evian upon arrival, romantic French dinner for two, cocktails for two and a bottle of Nicolas Feuillate Champagne with dinner, French toast breakfast in the morning, and late checkout upon request. Rates from From $359 per night based on double occupancy. More details and online booking here.

As for what else the Omni offers, you can read the review here. And you'll find listed here a lot more events and attractions in San Diego specifically arranged to help you ring in 2009 with a bang and a bar. Lots of bars, actually...

Escape to W Seattle for the New Year

Usually, I try to stay away from chain hotels, and stick to reviews of the boutiques. Theory behind it is that if you've seen one outlet of a chain, then you've seen em all. I mean, a Marriott is a Marriott is a Marriott. Sure there'll be superficial changes, but the 'experience' is basically the same.

New Year's Eve parties and celebrations are a different matter. End of the day (make that night), you can hardly remember your own name, let alone what kind of room and shower and curtains and mattress the hotel has. Just need to find a good deal. Doesn't really matter if its a hotel chain or a padlock or a hammer. Or a W. In Seattle.

After poking around for some decent Seattle hotels which had good deals plus a fair bit of entertainment lined up for ringing in 2009, I bumped into this special offer from the W Seattle called 'Ring in 2009 With a W Escape to Remember'. Includes a W Hotels Limited Edition 2009 CFDA Calendar to fill with the year’s festivities, bottle of bubbly for a 2009 toast, W Camera for in-the-moment memories, Bliss® Spa baggage handler to keep you bright-eyed and bag-free, and a 2pm late checkout so you can sleep it all off.

Book and stay by Jan 25. Book online or call 1-877-WHOTELS and use promo code WNC. More details here.

The baggage handler is a nice touch, and the bubbly is a good deal, New Year or not. A camera is ... well, a camera, and the late checkout is absolutely a life-saver on Jan 1 to get over the hangover. So all said and done, not so shabby for rates from $265. And they do have a lot going on, in the form of events and parties and such.

But if that's not enough for you, the only place to really party hard in Seattle on New Year's Eve has to be the Indulgence party on the waterfront. You won't find any other New Year's Eve attractions in Seattle as attractive as this downtown party, with 5,000 party animals expected to fill up 6 areas of live entertainment, 5 dance floors and more than 35 bars.

Info: 1112 4th Avenue Seattle Washington 98101; (206) 264-6000; Website.

A Tale of Two Hotels in Oakland

I prefer to stick to hotel reviews, but maybe its because this time of the year forces one to be a bit more charitable. Or at least think, and write about it. So, instead of writing one hotel review, I'm comparing two Oakland hotels. The ones I had in mind are the old California Hotel and the newly renovated Waterfront Hotel. Both have a lot of history in Oakland, and both are currently in the news for more than just renting out rooms.

First, the long running saga of the California Hotel and its tenacious tenants. Altogether, around over 500 Oakland renters (mostly poor, aged and disabled) were under notice of eviction by their landlaord Oakland Community Housing (OHCI), and its management agent the John Stewart Co.

One group, permanent residents of the historic California hotel, have been fighting in court to hold on their rooms, even as they had to manage the hotel on their own resources. A judge has kept in place a restraining order which prevents OHCI from evicting the tenants or shutting off gas, water and electricity to the hotel. The tenants have been cleaning the hotel, and taking care of the day-to-day activities all by themselves.

And at the other end of the spectrum, there are hotels like the Waterfront, which is now shining new after a multi-million dollar renovation, and which has pledged to donate $200 per guest room per year to community organizations. And here's the kicker - Waterfront Hotel's philanthropic partner in the You Can Make a Difference program is Rebuilding Together Oakland which rehabilitates the homes of elderly and disabled homeowners so they may live safely, in comfort and independence.

See the irony? Part of the money paid by guests to the Waterfront Hotel could end up being channeled through Rebuilding Together Oakland to rehabilitate the California Hotel, if they win the lawsuit and the judge decides that the community needs to pitch in to help the residents.

Doesn't mean, of course, that you should stay at the Waterfront just because they're doing some good. If you're planning for Oakland vacations, the Waterfront is just about a perfect place to stay, with a view of Oakland harbor, Jack London Square right outside the door, and the attractions in San Francisco a 20 minute ferry ride away.

They also have a complimentary shuttle. The entire hotel, including the new restaurant - Miss Pearl’s Jam House - has a distinct maritime feel to it, so if you're more at home on a boat than on solid ground, then the Waterfront is just the place you want.

Info: Waterfront hotel - 10 Washington Street Oakland CA 94607; (510) 836-3800; www.waterfrontplaza.com/

New Year's Eve Celebrations at the Gansevoort NYC

Sure, you can go to Times Square and watch the ball drop, along with a million others cooped up on Broadway, from 43rd St right upto Central Park. Or... You could opt to celebrate New year's Eve at any one of the swank and celeb filled New York hotels like the Gansevoort Hotel(www.hotelgansevoort.com/) in the Meatpacking District, where last year the New Year party was rocking until the wee hours in the company of Kid Rock, Perez Hilton, Mena Suvari, Paramore, Damien Fayhe and many other stars from the Big Apple's social circuit.

Let's see what they have in store this year, to help kick off 2009 with a bang, and clear away the recession blues. This year too, the Gansevvort does not dissappoint, and has a fun-filled agenda lined up.

• Six Hours of Top Shelf Open Bar
• Gourmet Cuisine Catered By Ono and of Jeffrey Chodorow’s famed China Grill Management
• Three DJs spinning a mix of Hip Hop, Dance, Rock & '80s
• Time’s Square Balldrop Countdown Displayed On Multiple Plasmas
• Countless Celebrity Sitings

So you can enjoy the luxury and the electric party atmosphere in the Gansevoort's rooftop poolside lounge, join in on the Times Square countdown, and yet not have to shove and push Japanese tourists and European backpackers in Times Square. Admission price $200. If you have a group, then they have rooftop tables with full hors d'oeuvre platters on each table and cocktail waitress service all night long. More details here, or call (212) 724-3900.

Hyatt Travel Challenge Sweepstakes

How about a chance to win two nights and three days for two people before the end of the year at one of the most romantic hotels in California? All you have to do is enter yourself into the Hyatt Travel Challenge Sweepstakes.

If you win, you could be enjoying a Hyatt Retreats weekend getaway at the Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach Resort & Spa with Ryan and Trista Sutter, the stars of ABC's hit reality show, The Bachelorette. What you need to do is pretty simple.

Ryan and Trista took the travel personality quiz, and now you have to do the same. If your If your answers make you a compatible travel match for Ryan and Trista, you'll be entered into the sweepstakes. You need to answer 12 questions about your personality. The results will categorize participants into four travel types - balanced, energetic, driven and romantic.

So you go to www.hyatttravelquiz.com/ and fill it in before Nov 7 2008. Prize includes 3 day/2 night stay for winner and 1 guest at the Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach Resort & Spa, with round-trip coach air transportation, standard hotel accommodations, ground transportation, the opportunity to meet Ryan & Trista, and an American Express branded prepaid card worth $1,000.

Halloween Horror Nights Package at Peabody Orlando

Not that there's any shortage of tricks or treats for Halloween at Orlando's famed theme parks, but its nice to have a complete experience. So if you book into a Halloween themed hotel or package, that rounds it up nicely.

To that end, the Peabody Orlando is offering a 'Halloween Horror Nights Package', which includes Two tickets to Universal Orlando's ® Halloween Horror Nights ®, one night accommodations at the Peabody, valet parking and VIP turndown service. Rates from $275 per night (taxes included). More details here.

Great! But then you say what happens if it turns out that the Peabody is one of these seedy tourist trap Orlando hotels which aim to suck in the dollars from innocent family travelers and then give them the shaft? Au Contraire - Its a frickin' luxury hotel. For starters its location near the Orange County Convention Center takes away a lot of transportation hassles. its just a short drive to short drive to Walt Disney World, Sea World, and Universal Orlando. And 15 minutes from Orlando International Airport.

Secondly, the Peabody is one of only two Mobil Four-Star, AAA Four Diamond hotels in the entire city. That by itself carries a lot of weight. And then, the hotel has been in operation since 1986. That's before a lot of you punks were even born. The grandeur of the soaring marble halls, stately palm trees, cascading waterfalls, exotic orchids, and the priceless art and artifacts, all combine to create an impression of stately opulence. The Peabody Club occupies the top three floors, and is exclusively available by private access.

As for dining, the Peabody offers 3 of the finest restaurants in Orlando, including Capriccio Grill, Dux Restaurant and the Lobby/Mallards.

The deluxe rooms have King beds or two signature Double Peabody Dream Beds, and a spacious sitting area with an overstuffed chair and ottoman, along with a fully stocked service bar. You don't get all this at seedy hotels, so you can rest assured that you get value (in addition to having the bejezzus scared out of you for Halloween) for your $275.

Info: 9801 International Drive Orlando FL 32819; (407) 352-4000; www.peabodyorlando.com/

B&B Special at Doubletree Oceanpoint Resort Miami

Is there any Miami Beach hotels which do not have a spa? Don't answer, cause that's a rhetorical question. Just that I'd like to find a good spa on the oceanfront or Collins Ave which is nothing except for a spa.

Anyway, while searching for the lone ranger spa, I bumped into this resort+hotel+spa+B&B - The Doubletree Oceanpoint Resort & Spa, which is offering a 'Dream Deal' bed and breakfast package. Includes accomodations, breakfast for 2 adults and 2 children, and Hilton HHonors® - earn Points & Miles® for the same stay. Rates from $209 to $389, depending on your choice of room/suite. And you get a chocolate chip cookie greeting when you arrive. More details here.

Again, while its a pretty good deal for 4 people to stay and eat breakfast for $209 (plus taxes), the whole point is that it can hardly be labeled as the Miami experience. I mean, if you want a free breakfast, there are any number of nifty Bed and Breakfasts. If you want a spa, the standalone spas probably offer better and cheaper massages and treatments than the ones which are attached to hotels.

The Miami experience, as we call it, involves staying at an oceanview resort with a private beach where you can hobnob with the celebs, then you go shopping and sightseeing, maybe poke around Lincoln Road, check out the Miami Metro Zoo, Vizcaya Mansion and the gardens, and then maybe some physical and spiritual rejunevation at a high end spa. That's a Miami experience.

On the other hand, if you wanna save money, there are a lot of cheap hotels and B&B's where you pay the minimum (probably around $120 for the entire family, breakfast included), and then head for the public beaches and Jungle Island and stuff like that.

What that means is that the Oceanpoint Resort falls in between these options, which leaves you neither here nor there.

Info: 17375 Collins Avenue Miami Beach FL 33160; (866) 623-2678; www.oceanpointresort.com/

$95 for a Princess Suite in Brooklyn

Sometimes, you bump into something utterly unbelieveable, and its just too good to be true. Well, it usually is, but in this case, I'll leave the judgment to you. How about if I told you that Brooklyn hotels have started offering rooms with a kitchenette and private bath with Jacuzzi tub for $ 95.00 per night. Well, its true.

That's what the Princess Hotel in Downtown Brooklyn is offering. Located near the Brooklyn Courts, the Fulton Mall and the Subway Station, with Manhattan 3 stops (or 10 minutes) away, its a great deal. And it gets even better. They have single rooms from $80 per night. A slightly larger room, also with a private bath, costs $85. All prices include complimentary breakfasts and lunch buffetts.

And it gets still more better. All rooms have refrigirators and maid service is included. They will provide extra cots for children, if necessary. All said and done, what you have is a room for a family at $100, meals included. 10 minutes from Manhattan.

Do these kinds of cheap hotels even exist in New York? You tell me. Its all written here. Have to say, though that you should exercise some caution before paying for it.

On the plus side, there is no online reservation system, so you have to see it in person, if you want to book in. If you're in New York, see it, and if its all that it claims to be, and as cheap as they say it is, then you pay for it.

Info: 211 Schermerhorn Street Brooklyn NY 11201; (718) 596-4179; www.princehotelgroup.com/

$1,000 Cash Promo at Seneca Niagara Casino & Hotel

I'm so fed up of writing about hotels which you can see from Times Square that I thought I'd try one from Upstate NY for a change. After stuyding the pros and cons of various scenic spots and locations, decided to home in on some Niagara Falls hotels.

Would be refereshing change from the urban decadence of the City. Or so you hope. First hotel I see on TripAdvisor happens to the Seneca Niagara Casino & Hotel. And they're offering a $1000 cash prize which you can win. It's called 'Risky Business', and you have a chance to win it every hour on every Wednesday & Thursday from 12 p.m. – 8 p.m., until Oct 23 2008. More details here.

Each hour between 12 p.m. and 8 p.m. a lucky Seneca Players Club member will be chosen to receive $250 Seneca Slot Dollars. But that is not all. The chosen winner then has the opportunity to risk that $250 for a chance at $400 or $500 Seneca Slot Dollars or $750 or $1,000 cash! But, choose carefully, for you may risk that $250 and get a lower prize amount.

These Seneca guys sure know how to make a gambler out of an honest God fearing Christian. That's because its an Indian casino, run by the Seneca Nation of Indians.

As for the hotel, its the largest luxury htel in Western New York, with 26 levels of luxury spread across 486 deluxe rooms, 86 corner suites and 22 one-bedroom suites. All guest rooms and suites have breathtaking views and are kitted out with a pillow-top bed, oversized shower, flat screen TV, internet access and more.

There's a full service spa with 12 treatment rooms which offers Swedish massages, aromatherapy, full body wrap and facials. There's also a well equipped fitness center alongwith an indoor pool and whirlpools. For banquets, events, meetings and conferences, the hotel ofers up 30,000 sq ft of space and the Seneca Events Center with a capacity to hold 2,200. The business center is well equipped with the latest A/V aids and other electronic equipment.

Best of all, its location just blocks away from Niagara Falls means that you can virtually smelll the water, hear the roar and feel the mist from your hotel room window. Ad its not just about a tall body of water. There's plenty of shopping to be done, with a 150 brand outlets at the Fashion Outlets, along with art galleries and quaint antique shops.

Info: 310 Fourth Street Niagara Falls NY 14303; (716) 299-1100; www.senecaniagaracasino.com/

Railroad Museum Package at the Holiday Inn Capitol Plaza Sacramento

I never get tired of saying that never look twice at Sacramento hotels which don't offer large rooms for around $100 per night, free parking and complimentary breakfast. The Holiday Inn Coapitol Plaza offers all this and more. And they have a Railroad Museum package special, which includes admission to the California State Railroad Museum for two adults, four tickets to ride on the museum train, as well as overnight accommodations and breakfast for two adults (kids eat free). Rates from $154 on weekends and $199 on weekdays. More details and booking here.

Factor in the cost of two tickets to the Railroad Museum, the perfect location of the hotel, the many and varid luxuries and amenities offered, and you can say that its well worth spending your Sacramento vacations at the Holiday Inn.

Amenities and services offered include the Cyprus Grille restaurant, concierge lounge, gift shop, fitness center, outdoor pool, sundeck, and a full service business center. teh hotel also offers valet, dry cleaning and laundry services.

The guest rooms are spacious, with equally large pillowtop bedding, cable television, coffee/tea maker, high speed internet, free morning newspaper, and iron and ironing board. If you upgrade to the concierge floor, you get robes, upgraded bath amenities and access to the Concierge Lounge’s flat screen TV, business center and full city views.

Info: 300 J Street Sacramento, California 95814; (916) 446-0100; www.sacramentohi.com/

Tech Package at DeAnza San Jose

No place better suited to help you understand how technology has invaded every aspect of your daily life, and just what makes Silicon Valley such a hotbed of innovation and entrepreunership, than the Tech Museum of Innovation in San Jose. And the Hotel DeAnza is offering a 'tech package' which includes two combination exhibit/IMAX tickets to The Tech, along with accomodations. Rates from $179. More details here.


Now normally I'd prefer one of the more upscale San Jose hotels, like the Valencia, but if you're looking to take a tour of the Tech Museum, then the DeAnza is just a short stroll away. And its not like the hotel is a dump. Its got a bucketload of modern amenities, which contrasts neatly with the classic architecture. There's one restaurant, a cafe, a lounge and a special buffett breakfast room.

The hotel offers 100 guest rooms, including 3 junior suites, 5 parlor suites and a penthouse which occupies the entire 10th floor. The rooms are neat and clean and spacious, with ornate wooden furnishings, shuttered blinds on large windows allow the rooms to be airy and bright, a workdesk and chair, along with a small coffee table with cushioned chairs all neatly arranged to maximize space gives the room a perfection like everything is in the right place. Its something which you rarely get to see in hotel rooms where things are crammed into as small a place as possible.

Info: 233 West Santa Clara Street San Jose CA 95113p; (408) 286-1000; www.hoteldeanza.com/

Drive-in Parking & Breakfast at Gramercy Park New York

Want to zoom around NYC in a complimentary Merc? The Gramercy Park hotel, an institution whose Haute Bohemian heritage has been plugged into a modernistic lifestyle by Ian Schrager, is offering a 'Drive in Parking and Breakfast' package. Includes luxurious overnight accommodations in your choice of room category, complimentary overnight parking, complimentary use of hotel Mercedes during your stay, complimentary high-speed wireless internet access, and a full American breakfast daily (including tax and gratuity). Rates from $805. More details about this and other specials at the Gramercy Park here.

It would be a mistake to try to describe all the amenities the hotel provides, as that could spread across several pages. I'll just round it up in brief. There's a Chinese restaurant (Wakiya), and two bars (Jade and Rose), a private rooftop club which has another bar, Aerospace fitness center, Aerospa, meeting, conference and event facilities, 24 hour concierge and room service, wi-fi access, and best of all - A private key to Gramercy Park. If you're wondering what that's about, Gramercy Park is a private park with access restricted to residents of the neighbourhood. You can't just walk into the park. Everybody has their own key.

As for accomodations, the hotel offers 185 guest rooms, 6 custom Gramercy suites and there's also the inescapable penthouse suite, without which New York hotels would be incomplete. The rooms offer views of Gramercy Park, Lexington Avenue or the Courtyard. Each room features King, Queen or double bedded rooms with down comforters, pillows and feather beds, 400 thread count Italian linens, every single room has a distinct design, with original handmade furniture made by artists from across the world, imported rugs, custom light fixtures, a mahogany wood bathroom with oversized soaking tub or shower, Extra-large flat screen LCD TVs with full cable access, Video on-demand with entertainment center featuring compact disc player/ DVD and specially programmed iPod and docking station, in-room safe, stocked in-room refrigirator, newspaper of your choice delivered to the door, and full turndown service.

And this is just scratching the surface. Like I said, the Gramercy Park hotel is an institution, not just a place to crash. Think luxury New York vacations. You go there if you're on a honeymoon, or if you're in town to complete shooting a scene for your latest movie, or if you don't know how many billions of $$ you have in your name.

Info: 2 Lexington Avenue New York NY 10010; (212) 920-3300; www.gramercyparkhotel.com/

Romance in the Air at the Kyoto Grand Los Angeles

One would assume that there's nothing much in the air in Los Angeles other than pestilence of the thick smog, but not so it seems. The Kyoto Grand Hotel & Gardens claims there's Romance in the air. And to that end, they have a special offer by the same name - 'Romance is the Air'.

Includes executive room with King bed (or suite upgrade if available), strawberries served with whipped cream, brown sugar, chocolate sauce and confectioner’s sugar, and champagne delivered to your room following check-in, full American breakfast in bed for two delivered by room service, parking and includes taxes and gratuities. More details here.

I usually take special offers from establishments purporting to be romantic hotels with a pinch of salt. I mean, its not like they offer something which you can't get from room service. Its just a room with some freebies thrown in. But what attracts me about the Kyoto Grand's offer is the price tag - $199. And remember, that includes all taxes.

Besides, this boutique hotel is something of a novelty, with a pretty obvious Japanese influence in the decor and the services offered, and there's a lush green rooftop sanctuary atop the 21 floors of the hotel (which alone should be enough to keep the all pervasive LA smog away from the hotel's premises). Plus, its location in Little Tokyo isn't all that shabby as a base for Los Angeles vacations. They also have two solid dining options in the Genji Bar and the Garden Grill.

The hotel offers 434 guest rooms and 20 suites, including 3 Japanese inspired suites. In room amenities include a coffee maker, color television with premium movie channels, hairdryer, iron and board, and rollaway beds. The suites have plush sofas, wodden shutter doors, and a large wall inset rack for the television. Sober colors and tasteful decor make this a relaxing place to stay at.

Can't say if its very romantic, but from the looks of it, seems the Kyoto Grand is at least more romantic than most other Los Angeles hotels.

Info: 120 South Los Angeles Street Los Angeles CA 90012; (213) 629-1200; www.kyotograndhotel.com/

New Year's in the Big Apple with the Wellington

There's no better time for New York vacations than during the new year. And hotels are full up already, so its wise to book well in advance. The snooty Midtown Manhattan hotel Wellington next to the Carnegie Hall is offering a 3 night package for New Year's in New York.

Package includes 3 nights in a King room or suite with full American breakfast in the Park Café each morning, shopping discounts including Macy's, South Street Seaport, and an in-room gift (one per room). Rates from $909 (for 2 people). Subject to availability before and after Dec 31st. More details here.

Amenities at the Wellington include concierge services for theater, sight seeing and local transport, a gift shop, the award-winning Molyvos mediterranean restaurant, Park Cafe for breakfast, lunch, dinner and after-theater snacks, valet parking (charges apply), hair dresser, room service, valet laundry and drycleaning, high speed wireless, business center and complimentary safe deposit boxes at the counter.

The hotel has 515 guest rooms and 85 1-bedroom suites with kitchenettes, all equipped with wireless internet, cable TV with pay per view movies, hairdryers, and iron & board.

If you're looking for decent New York hotels near Times Square where you can crash after watching the ball go on down on New Year's, and which is convinient for checking out all the other NYC attractions, then the Wellington just about fits the bill.

Info: 871 7th Ave at 55th Street New York NY 10019; (800) 652-1212; www.wellingtonhotel.com/

Wellness Weekends Package at the Palomar San Francisco

San Francisco isn't all that famed for spas and spa getaways, although Napa Valley has a bucketload of spa resorts and hotels where the A-list crowd enjoy downtime and recuperations for their skin and body. Still, if you're talking about San Francisco per se, there aren't that many classy massage and therapy joints which come with a vacation package.


One of these happens to be the Palomar Hotel in San Francisco's Union Square, which offers in-room spa services. They also have a package special called 'Wellness Weekends', which includes luxe accommodations, a welcome 'Detox Mocktail' (that's supposed to be a non-alcoholic pomegranate juice spritzer), take-home aromatherapy scented eye mask, use of in-room yoga bag for your use during your stay, take-home copy of body + soul Magazine and Guide to Balanced Living booklet, a healthy breakfast (in-room or at the Fifth Floor restaurant with take-home recipe sheet), and an opportunity to book a signature Kimpton Relax & Rejuvenate in-room spa experience with a 10% discount off regular price. package rates from $239. More details here.


The Palomar is a Kimpton hotel, and as such offers all the things that Kimptons have, like KimptonKids, and EarthCare (an eco-friendly program). Besides, the hotel is extremely per friendly and the lcoation is suitable as a base for exploring San Francisco. Hotel amenities and services include free wi-fi, Manager's hosted wine reception in the evening, complimentary morning coffee and overnight shoeshine, laundry and valet services, on-site fitness center, and the hotel offers 10% off on parking charges if your vehicle is a hybrid. The Fifth Floor Restaurant & Lounge is stylish, neat and spacious, and offers French cuisine.


The French influence can be seen in the hotel's design and artwork and the 195 guest rooms and suites as well. In-room amenities include free wi-fi, comfortable workdesks, down comforters, L'Occitane bath products and plush bathrobes, TV with on-demand movies, Nintendo for games and DVD player, Honor bar stocked with specialty and gourmet items, in-room safe, iron & board, hairdryer, full-length and two-sided make-up mirrors, and here's the kicker - They'll bring in a companion goldfish to keep you from getting lonely for the duration of your stay. Course, it better be there after you leave, so if you have a cat, make sure the cat and the goldfish don't get into an argument.


Info: 12 Fourth Street at MarketSan Francisco CA 94103; (866) 373-4941; http://www.hotelpalomar-sf.com/

Pet Friendly Mt. Charleston Lodge Las Vegas

The whole concept of pet friendly hotels is actually a pig-headed idea. That's because by definition of a hotel, your pet is locked up in a room, same as at home. If you really want your pet to enjoy the vacation same as you, then the only way to do it is choose pet friendly lodging, as opposed to hotels.

Which is where the Mt. Charleston Lodge - located in Kyle Canyon, in the Humboldt Toiyabe National Forest, 38 miles off the Strip in Las Vegas - comes in. They offer these neat log cabins set in a scenic outdoorsy place where your dog has the run of the place. $20 fee per night per night, with a maximum 30-pound weight limit and no more than two pets. More details here.

The lodge offers two types of cabins - honeymoon cabins (500 sq ft) for couples and larger family cabins (900 sq ft). Each A-frame cabin has whirlpool baths and showers, and some are equipped with VCR or DVD, and microwave and a mini refrigerator. The cabins have private decks and gas fireplaces. No telephones, so its basically a getaway from the urban bedlam in Las Vegas.

The honeymoon cabins cost $267.50 and the family cabins clock in at $347.75. Don't ask about why they need the 50 and 75 cents. Special holiday rates for December are available, with weeknight honeymoons at $160.50, and weekend honeymoons at $240.75. The family special rates are $214.00 and $294.25 for weeknights and weekend nights respectively.

New Year's eve rates are slightly higher, but include champagne or sparkling cider, a spa basket & party favors.

Info: Kyle Canyon, Humboldt Toiyabe National Forest 1200 Old Park Road Las Vegas NV 89124; (702) 872-5408; www.mtcharlestonlodge.com/

An Affair to Remember at the Ivy San Diego

No, I didn't indulge in a one night stand and a sodden hangover. 'An Affair to Remember' is a package special at the Ivy Hotel in San Diego. As it is, the Ivy is one of the top three San Diego hotels for partying and wild nights in the Gaslamp Quarter.

Throw in a bottle of Veuve Clicquot, gourmet chocolate truffles, and bath butler service with molton brown bubble bath and scented candles, along with premium accomodations thrown in, and what you have is the an 'Affair to Remember'. Rates starting from $399. More details here.

I think I've written about the Ivy before, but I'm kinda losing track of what hotels I've already reviewed, and which ones are yet to be done. What the heck, I guess the Ivy is well worth a redo. Besides, they've added a few things since I've last been there, like the Ivy Enticements - Daily events and shows, like Mondays with Damon Gordon's Quarter Kitchen where the celeb chef shows you how he creates his masterpieces, and live music where performers play acoustic sounds with a fusion of rock, funk, jazz, blues and pop.

Course, the primary reasons to book in at the Ivy remain the Envy nightclub and the Eden rooftop pool and bar, full bottle in-room bar, 24 hour valet parking, and the fabulous 42" HDTV wall mounted plasma screens virtual 5.1 sound effect. The rest of it is standard stuff, with same day laundry, fitness center, 20,000 sq ft of event space and 9000 sq ft of meeting space, complimentary wireless throughout the hotel, fine linens, microfiber bathrobes and Korres environmentally friendly body care products.

Info: 600 F Street San Diego CA 92101; (619) 814-1000; www.ivyhotel.com/

The Wyland Waikiki Free Night Package

The Wyland Waikiki, whose 'hotiness' factor is a kinda big deal amongst the staid old Honolulu hotels, is now offering a 1 night free package. Rates from $205 for a city view room in 2008, and rates from $179 for a standard room in 2009. Rates are per room, per night, two persons sharing.

Stay 3 nights includes one night free. Valid for three-night increments (stay six nights includes two nights free, etc.). One category room upgrade on availability. Daily continental breakfast for two at KiMOBEAN Coffee Company. Valid through December 21, 2008 and January 5 - December 21, 2009. More details and online booking here.

There's a few more noteworthy packages listed there, including 'Hot Rates for Hot Dates', under which you pay $129 for a standard guest room and $179 for a one bedroom suite.

As for the hotel, the Wyland Waikiki is a boutique property located close to the beaches and Diamond Head Crater. There's a freshwater garden pool and spa, and a more decluded salt water pool. There's also a lounge in the lobby named the Wy-Bar, a Kimo Bean coffee bar which serves up freshly ground coffee, and an entertainment room with massage chairs and a gigantic 65-inch flat screen TV. Other amenities include a reading room, business center, a full service restaurant and spa services and massage treatments from Spa Pure.

Services offered include complimentary surf board storage, concierge services, complimentary high-speed internet access, coin-operated laundry, complimentary newspaper, daily housekeeping, valet parking (extra charges apply), laundry/dry cleaning, room service and a tour activities desk.

As for the accomodations, the hotel offers 403 guest rooms with private lanais, 88 one bedroom suites with kitchenettes and 2 penthouse suites. In-room amenities include a private lanai (that's like a balcony), flat screen HDTV, complimentary high speed internet, pillow top beds, mini refrigerator, coffee and tea maker, cable TV and pay-per-view/video games, a writing desk, air conditioning, blackout drapes, free local and long distance calls to mainland USA, Canada, and the neighbor islands, hair dryer, in-room safe, iron and board, kitchenette with microwave and wet bar, and full sized bath in all suites.

Info: 400 Royal Hawaiian Avenue Honolulu Hawaii 96815; (877) 995-2638; www.thewylandwaikikihotel.com/

Shop in Suite Style with Hotel Deca Seattle

There's something slightly aristocratic about shopping in Seattle. Its way different from the deadly bargain jostling or Millionaires' corners in NYC, where the focus is on shopping, period. In Seattle, a shopping experience is more of a leisurely stroll, to be enjoyed in the company of a friend, just stopping to check things of interest, enjoying a rest at neat restaurants and cafes.

Like I said, its more of an experience, and less about piling up a large bill on your credit card. Its part and parcel of all Seattle vacations, leisure or romantic or family or wine country or anything else. And the Hotel Deca is primed to let you indulge your shopaholic instincts with its Shop in Suite Style package.

Package includes junior suite accommodations, University village gift card valued at $100 (www.uvillage.com for a list of stores), Crabtree & Evelyn '60 Second Fix for Feet' gift basket with foot smoother and extreme foot therapy, complimentary shuttle to and from the University Village shopping center, continental breakfast for two, $10 Tully’s gift card (coffee for two), and martinis for two at the District Lounge. Rates from $289 (taxes extra). Click here for more details.

The junior suite that comes with the package has one king bed with sitting chair and a full-size sofa-bed, and offers stunning views of the Cascade Mountains and surrounding area. Recently reappointed with new furnishing, bedding and linens, upgraded lighting, 32 inch flat panel LCD TVs. DVD players, clock radios with iPod docking stations, in-room safes and complimentary WiFi access.

The Deca is a 16 story full service 158 room boutique hotel with an art deco exterior dating back to the 1930s, located in the University District. Renovated in early 2007, the hotel's Grand ballroom now has a new look and feel with a new coffered ceiling, hand-blown glass chandeliers, and upgraded audio/visual systems.

Info: 4507 Brooklyn Ave NE Seattle WA 98105; (800) 899-0251; www.hoteldeca.com/

$69 per Night at La Quinta Inn Sacramento

I think I've said this before, but needs repeating just the same. All Sacramento hotels which are more than a roadside dumpster offer free parking, huge rooms, complimentary breakfast and rates which hover just below $100 per night. If you ain't getting this (at least this), then you've been ripped off.

But La Quinta Inn Sacramento Downtown goes one step further. They're offering rates which are just about 2/3rd of the $100 bar. La Quinta offers rooms at $69 per night and suites for $109. And in case you're wondering, they do offer free parking, complimentary breakfast with fresh waffles, fresh fruits, pastries, bagels, cereals, muffins, juices, milk and coffee. And the 165 rooms and 3 suites are pretty large by any standard, and surprisingly well equipped, for a place which charges $69.

The deluxe room with one king bed is equipped with a coffee maker, hairdryer, and iron with ironing board, 25-inch TV with popular cable channels, work desk, free local calls, free high speed internet and voicemail. Additional amenities and services include meeting facilities, guest laundry facilities, an outdoor swimming pool, fitness center and they also have an airport shuttle.

And anything you can think of to visit, including all the touristy things to do in Sacramento, like Old Sacramento, the Sacramento Zoo, the California State Railroad Museum and Discovery Park are all conviniently close at hand.

Info: 200 Jibboom St. Sacramento CA 95814; (916) 448-8100; Website

Rev It Up Gas Package at the Peacock Suites Anaheim

As far as Anaheim hotels are concerned, the Peacock Suites resort from Shell Hospitality can hardly be labeled as the ultimate in holiday luxury. What it does offer is a cheap, clean and spacious 1-bedroom suites located in the heart of the Anaheim resort area, triangulating the Resort, the Anaheim Convention Center and Knotts Berry Farm.

What's more, they have a free shuttle service to and from the Disneyland Resort, free continental breakfast and a friendly staff, so what you have in the Peacock Suites is one of the most decent family hotels in Anaheim.

To top that off, they're offering a 'Rev it up Gas' package where you get a $25 gas rebate card if you stay for at least two nights. Valid until 9th Oct 2008. More details and online booking here.

In addition to the 139 one bedroom suites, shuttle service and the continental breakfast, the Peacock Suites offers fitness and business centers, high speed internet, a newly renovated pool, two whirlpool spas, a private rooftop sundeck, gift shop, valet parking ($8 per day), laundry and overnight drycleaning, and car rental services.

The suites are each equipped with 1 King or 2 Queen beds, queen sofa bed in living room, air conditioning, dining room with table, CD and DVD players, refrigerator, microwave, complimentary coffee and tea, hair dryer, 2 televisions (one flat screen) with cable, and iron and ironing board.

As it is, Anaheim vacations, especially for family travelers, costs a pretty packet, what with the tickets and airfare and food and shopping and stuff. The final nail is hammered in by hotel prices at the big chain resorts topping the charts at $300 to $400 per night, for a family of 4.

The Peacock Suites, on the other hand, has rates from $99 onwards. That's per night per suite, for a family of 4, with 2 adults and 2 children. Take out the pre-paid $25 gas rebate card, and you have a 2-day stay in Anaheim for about $175 in an all-suite resort with a pool and free shuttle and free breakfast and a rooftop sundeck. Which is not bad at all.

Info: 1745 South Anaheim Blvd. Anaheim CA 92805; (866) 729-7182; Website

Right on Target at the Delano Miami

Miami Spas, especially the ones on South Beach, and even more so the ones at the posh resorts, are all worth killing for. These are the best spa + resort combos in the nation we're talking about, all lined up on Collins Ave. Maybe its the proximity to the Atlantic, maybe its the weather, maybe its the spa, or maybe its a toxic mix of all these plus the wonderful things to do in Miami that make Collins Ave so popular for spa fans.

Be that as it may, one of these upscale watering holes happens to be the Delano, which houses the Agua Spa. And they're offering mutiple spa getaway packages, including one called the 'Right on Target'. Includes one complimentary Target Massage per night and 10% off all spa services. Accomoations in a 350 sq ft city view room with king bed, glass shower, CD and DVD players, plasma TV, high speed wireless internet and lots more (see below). Rates from $435. More details here.

The Delano has some unique architechture to boast of, with a lobby which manages to bridge the divide between indoors and outdoors, a lush orchard with a Quartz swimming pool and water salon, a private beach village, and of course, the Agua Spa, which is a rooftop spa with a solarium. Other amenities and services include in-room spa and massage services, a billiards area, an outdoors childrens' area, a beach bar and grill, a gift and magazine shop, 24 hour concierge services and room service, private catering and banquet services, a gym with state-of-the-art fitness and exercise equipment with private trainers, valet parking and an interactive multimedia room.

In-room amenities include King or Queen beds with down comforters, bathroom amenities by Korres, plasma television with cable, HBO, MTV, VH1, CNN and Sports Channel, VCR with library of over 1,500 films, a private telephone number for each room which connects directy from outside, a stocked refrigirator and daily turndown service.

Info: 1685 Collins Ave Miami Beach Florida 33139; (305) 672-2000; www.delano-hotel.com

Parking & Breakfast at the Hudson New York

What's the worst thing that you hate about New York vacations (other than snotty New Yorkers)? That would be the scandalous parking rates. Its quite fair to say that parking spots are more valuable than cars in NYC. With that in mind, the Hudson Hotel has introduced a 'Parking & Breakfast' package, which coupled with the hotel's excellent location close to Central Park and the theater district, makes it really easy to drive-thru an NYC trip.

Package includes a standard room 150 sq ft. with a queen bed, bath or shower with luxurious bath amenities by Agua , and high speed internet service. Free daily american breakfast buffet in cafe and overnight parking. Rates from $305. More details here.

Amenities and services at the hudson include the Hudson Cafe and a bar, a library, private park, and a sky terrace. There's also a 24 hour workout room, in room massage service, 24 hour concierge services, and extensive banquet and catering services.

The rooms and suites are all equipped King or Queen beds with down comforters and 250 therad count white Egyptian cotton sheets, cable television with HBO, MTV, VH1, CNN, Sports Channel, and video on demand, and an in-room safe.

The rates are a wee bit on the higher side, as compared to other New York hotels, but the Hudson does offer a fair bit of laid back luxury, and its located in a much more decent place than the usual mayhem-ridden tourist traps around Times Square.

Info: 356 West 58th Street New York, New York 10019; (212) 554-6000; www.hudsonhotel.com/

Uptowner Package from the Wilshire Grand LA

The Wilshire Grand may not be the finest of downtown Los Angeles hotels, or as swanky and hip as some of the hotels which dot the landscape in West Hollywood, but it is still a veritable institution. And its way cheaper than any comparable downtown digs. Plus, its location at the corner of 7th street and Figueroa is pitch perfect for a nice tour of all the things to do in Los Angeles. Just 4 blocks to the Los Angeles Convention Center, Staples Center, and Nokia Theater L.A. Live, and within walking distance of all the downtown attractions. If you want to go further afield to Hollywood or Universal Studios, the Metro is right across the street.

Even better, they have a host of specials and packages meant to maximize your pathetic tourist dollars. Take, for example, the Uptowner package which includes a deluxe room, buffet breakfast for two in the City Grill restaurant plus valet parking for rates from $170. Available on Fridays, Saturdays & Sundays. Also available on Thursdays with a two-night minimum stay. Click here for more info and online booking.

FYI, the deluxe rooms that come with this package have views of downtown LA, with a sitting area, king size bed and bath in a spacious setting (up to 450 Sq. ft.). Amenities include complementary wireless internet access, writing desk, remote control TV with LodgeNet, multiline phones, clock radio, iron and board, makeup mirror, hair dryer and custom climate control.

In addition to the City Grill, the Wilshire has three other restaurants and two bars. Services and amenities include an espresso bar, 24-hour pool and a fitness center with jacuzzi, steam & sauna and even a boxing ring. There's also gift shops, boutiques, florists, salon, event ticketing agency, car rental, and a business center.

Info: 930 Wilshire Blvd. Los Angeles CA 90017; (213) 688-7777; www.wilshiregrand.com/

$99 for 3 nights at Golden Nugget Las Vegas

The Golden Nugget Las Vegas is offering a deal which very few Las Vegas hotels will be able to match. $99 for 3 nights Sunday-Thursday (H/T Jen Leo, LA Times). Book by Sept. 25 for travel Sept. 28–Oct. 30. There's lots more specials listed for the Golden Nugget, but this one is not. Seems you need to sign up for their email specials to receive this offer. You've got one day, so maybe you can still make it. Even if not, no harm in signing up, since they'll likely renew the offer in the near future, or maybe have an even better one.

I've already written about the Golden Nugget and the amenities and services they offer here, so no point in reprising all that here. Instead, let's focus on the various specials they have.

There's the 1 night free offer, if you're arriving September 28, 29 or 30. You book one night and get one free. Call 800-634-3454 to reserve your free night. Or you could take up the Super Summer Room offer, valid until Sept 30th, wherein you pay $59 per night (Sunday - Thursday) and receive a $25 Food & Beverage Credit and 2-for-1 Tickets to 'Defending the Caveman'.

If you miss out on the Sept deals, then the winter ones kick in. Book your stay between October 1 - December 28 2008, and you get rates from $59 per night (Sunday - Thursday) and you receive a Golden Values coupon book worth over $250 in resort discounts including 2 breakfast buffets for under $10 (+tax), 2 lunch buffets for under $11 (+tax), two free Drinks, $10 in free slot play, and $20 off Spa & Salon services.

There's also two suite specials, with the North Tower suite clocking in at $209 per night and the Spa Tower suite from $359 per night. Includes VIP check-in, nightly turn-down service, luxury bath amenities, and wet bar/refrigerator/coffee service.

Cheap hotels are a dime a dozen in Vegas, and so is their grandiosity (like the shark tank), but one thing I'd like to do is compare the amenities (in-room) that these cheapo rooms offer against hotels in other parts of the nation. I mean, most hotels in California would consider turn-down service and a wet bar and refrigirator and coffee machine to be routine stuff, available in all rooms. So what's so special about the suites at the Golden Nugget, that they charge 4 times as much as a room?

Info: 129 E. Fremont St. Las Vegas NV 89101; (800) 846-5336; www.goldennugget.com/

Pamper your Pet at the Larkspur Union Square

FYI, San Francisco has more than its fair share of pet friendly hotels. One of them happens to be the the Larkspur Union Square hotel, which is offering a 'Pamper your Pet' package. Includes a $25 gift card to Cheeko B San Francisco local pet boutique, a VIP welcome toy for your pet, and unlimited pet treats in the lobby daily. Rates from $239. Click here for more details and online booking. Use promo code PET.

Amenities and services include the BAR 1915 (named after the hotel's early 1900's history), complimentary wireless internet, a business center, gift shop, complimentary coffee in the morning and fresh baked cookies each evening, and infused water in the lobby (don't ask...).

The room you get for $239 is kitted out with the Larkspur signature featherBorne bed, LATHER bath and body amenities with bathrobes, LCD flat screen television, a coffeemaker with Starbucks coffee and tea, work desk, and iron/ironing board. The suites additonally offer a marble tiled bathroom (no marble for the common rifraff in the guest rooms), refrigirator, a sofa sleeper and an additional TV.

All this is a bit on the lighter side compared to other storied San Francisco hotels like the Sir Francis Drake, but its still eminently sufficient, if not luxurious. And it is located in Union Square.

Info: 524 Sutter Street San Francisco CA 94102; (415) 421-2865; www.cartwrighthotel.com/

Bubbles, Breakfast and Bed Package from the Intercontinental Chicago

Chicago hotels located along the Magnificent Mile aren't generally famed for being family (or couple) friendly, reasonable and luxurious all at the same time. But its not all bad. The Intercontinental Chicago, where luxury meets old-world splendor, is offering a pretty darn reasonable deal with their 'Bubbles, Breakfast and Bed' Package.

Includes overnight accommodations in a king or double/double guest room, chilled champagne and caviar upon arrival, champagne and chocolate tasting for two in Eno - the hotel’s wine, cheese and chocolate tasting room, with champagne tips from the hotel’s wine director,
champagne breakfast for two in Zest, including breakfast buffet and Mimosa’s, and complimentary valet parking. Rates from $250 per night per couple. Valid from December 30 2008 through February 29 2009. More details here.

The hotel offers a stunning 790 guest rooms and suites, all recently refurbished, with sweeping lake or city views. This tally includes 71 suites, 23 business class rooms and the Presidential Suite with two levels located on the 35th floor, overlooking the Magnificent Mile and Lake Michigan, with floor-to-ceiling windows and a swanky staircase leading to the master bedroom, and 4 full baths.

All the standard rooms have Italian marble baths, high-speed internet, oversized desks,
television with pay-per-view movies and cable TV, mini bars, iron and ironing board, coffee makers with complimentary coffee and tea, hairdryer, vanity mirror, terry-cloth bathrobes,
complimentary daily newspaper and twice-daily maid service.

Amenities include a gift shop, fitness and business centers with over 40,000 sq ft of event and meeting space, a junior Olympic swimming pool, and 3 seperate restaurants and lounges. Services include a Concierge desk, room service, laundry and dry-cleaning, and personal trainers and masseurs.

Not to put too fine a point on it, but the InterContinental is way more luxurious and opulent than any of the Bed and Breakfasts you'll find in the Loop or the Magnificent Mile, and considering the bubbly and the caviar and stuff, this is probably one of the most romantic hotels you'll find out in the Midwest. And $250 is A-ok considering that the hotel's front doors open out onto the Magnnificent Mile, and breakfast is included.

Info: 505 North Michigan Avenue Chicago IL 60611; (800) 628-2112; www.icchicagohotel.com/

$30.99 per night at the Fiesta Rancho Las Vegas

Historically speaking, rates at Las Vegas hotels have always been low as compared to hotels in other parts of the nation. That's probably because of the fact that Las Vegas uses hotel rooms as a means to an end. Simply put, they offer low rates to reel you in, and then allow you to lose the rest of your money at their casino.

And the Fiesta Rancho Casino & Hotel seems to have perfected this art of seducing prospective gamblers with cheap hotels, because they're offering rates from $30.99 per night. Located minutes from the Strip and the Las Vegas Motor Speedway, this 5 story 100 room hotel offers Double or King bedrooms with connecting rooms, pay-per-view movies, high speed internet, free local calls, an outdoor swimming pool, and valet & free covered parking, including parking for large vehicles and buses.

The double rooms can sleep four people and the King rooms can accomodate two. In room-amenities, other than those mentioned above, include hair dryers and iron & ironing board. They also have a food court, 4 restaurants, a gift shop, business center and an 'Ice Arena', in addition to the Arcade and slot machines at the Casino.

Info: 2400 N. Rancho Drive North Las Vegas NV 89130; (702) 631-7000 or (888) 899-7770; www.fiestarancholasvegas.com/

Bed & Breakfast at the Bristol San Diego

The Bristol hotel in San Diego, adjacent to the Gaslamp Quarter, is offering a Bed and Breakfast getaway package at rates from $189 per night. Includes stay in a newly renovated deluxe room with a King bed, nightly turndown service, in-room movies, full American breakfast for two with two eggs any style, choice of bacon, ham or sausage, potatoes, toast, coffee and juice.

Extended late check out up to 2:00 pm. For more details or reservations, call (619) 232-6141 or visit their website.

The Bristol offers 102 newly renovated guest rooms. Amenities and services include complimentary wireless internet, in-room iPod/MP3 docking stations, LCD HD televisions with pay-per-view movies, in-room coffee maker, honor bar and laptop compatible safes, triple sheeted beds with down comforters, luxurious bathrobes, salon-style hair dryers, top of the line bath products, and same day dry-cleaning and laundry service.

Dining and room service taken care of by Daisy's Bistro serving California cuisine, and the adjacent Daisy's Bar, with its signature Crazi Dazi Martini. And considering the low rates relative to both Bed & Breakfasts and other San Diego hotels, the Bristol is surprisingly upscale in its decor and the facilities. The lobby has marble flooring and they even have a ballroom on the top floor which has a retractable roof.

Info: 1055 First Avenue San Diego CA 92101; (800) 662-4477 / (619) 232-6141; www.thebristolsandiego.com

Beyond the Sea Special at the Chelsea Atlantic City

You know what's worse than not having a beach in your city? Having one and no one ever knowing that it exists. If that sounds cryptic, let me simplify it with two words - Atlantic City. All along the NJ shores, there are beautiful beaches, from Wildwood to Stone Harbor, Avalon, Sea Isle City and Ocean City, all being prominent attractions in each of their locations. But if you go to a tour operator and ask about beaches for Atlantic City vacations, they'll laugh in your face.

That's because AC is in essence a Vegas clone, which just happens to be located on the waterfront. Meaning that there's only three things to do in Atlantic City, and they are gambling, nightlife and enjoying the carnival atmosphere, like at the Steel Pier. Sure, you get nice views of the ocean from the windows of beachfront casino resorts. But end of the day, when you have casinos with beach bars featuring nightly live bands, who needs the beach?

Which is why I was surprised to hear about the Chelsea Hotel (thechelsea-ac.com), the first non-gaming hotel to open in Atlantic City in about 50 years. All it offers is pure luxury, simple privacy and a beachfront location with a great view. Oh, and just about everything else that you get at the other Atlantic City hotels, including a full service spa, two restaurants, a coffee shop and a steakhouse, 4 bars, a rooftop pool with a poolside bar and private cabanas, transport to the casinos, fitness center, valet parking garage, and an indoor saltwater pool inspired spa (whatever that may be...).

Has 342 guest rooms and suites spread across two towers and 20 floors. And since they just opened, the Chelsea is offering opening specials at rates from $169 per night. There's a special beach package called 'Beyond the Sea', which allows you to experience the full charm of Chelsea's beach service with luxurious towels, lounge chairs, umbrellas, private cabanas, and food and beverage service from the signature Stephen Starr restaurants on-site. For reservations call (800) 548-3030 or click here for more details of this and other specials at the Chelsea.

Info: 111 S. Chelsea Ave Atlantic City NJ 08401; (800) 548-3030; http://thechelsea-ac.com/

Hip Chicks Day Off at the Sorrento Seattle

Ever wonder what extras do hotels purporting to be 'girl getaway' friendly offer? I mean, ok, so they could give you a box of chocolates or candy or somthing kitschy like that, but that hardly counts as something concrete. Now if you throw in free treatment at a spa, brunch at a snooty hotel, and/or shopping coupons, then you got something to chew on.

And that's exactly what the Sorrento hotel in Seattle offers. They have this 'Hip Chicks Day Off' package, which includes your choice of a deluxe guest room or a Sorrento Suite with two Queen sized beds, two cosmopolitan cocktails upon arrival delivered to your room, lunch for two at the Hunt Club, both of you get a LuLu manicure and pedicure at Frenchy's in Madison Park, valet parking, and a surprise welcome amenity. Valid until Dec 31, 2010? I guess the hotel believes its guests should book a couple of years in advance... More details here.

Rates from $516. For which you get a deluxe room with one king, one queen or two queen size beds, 400 thread-count Egyptian cotton linens, terry cloth bathrobes, bathrooms in Italian marble, desk and chair, full length mirror, sitting chair, JVC sound system with ten digital satellite stations and 3-disc CD changer.

Amenities and guest services include the spa Shiatsu Yasuo Mori at the lobby level, Yoga classes at the Pilates de Sorrento located in the lower lobby level, and two restaurants - The Hunt Club and the Fireside Room.

Oh, and the hotel is by far one of the most pet friendly hotels I've ever seen, in Seattle or anywhere else. If you have a pet tagging along, they charge a mandatory $60, in return for which you get a dog bed, organic locally made treats (for the dog, not you...), food and water bowls, special water/spill proof mats to place under the bowls, and poop scoopers so you don't have to make a face when you use tissue to pick up after your dog.

Oh, and if you want, they're also capable of arranging physical pet therapy, onsite pet massage, doggie day care with pick up and drop off service included, dog psychic sessions, and onsite dog grooming. I'm quite A-ok with the rest, but psychic sessions for dogs? You gotta be kidding me...

Info: 900 Madison St Seattle WA 98104; (206) 622-6400; www.hotelsorrento.com/

Tower Tails Pet Promo at the Tower Beverly hills

Its a well known fact that pooches in Beverly Hills are amongst the most spoilt and pampered pets in the world. The combined expense that Los Angeles residents incur annually on pets likely rivals the GDP of a small country. And Beverly Hills hotels are rightly at the top of their game when it comes to offering that extra something for pet owners.

The Tower Beverly Hills counts itself as one of these pet friendly hotels which goes down on all fours and lets the dogs and cats brought in guests walk all over them. They're offering a special for guests with pets called the Tower Tails Pet Promo, which includes a doggie bag at check in and friendly tips for making the most of Los Angeles vacations, pet in tow. Valid until Dec 30 2008. Rates from $279. Minimum 2 night stay required.

Amenities at the Tower include the Lot 1224 sports bar with happy hour from 4:30 pm - 7:00 pm daily, a heated outdoor pool with private cabanas & lounge beds, mini bars in rooms, pet-friendly rooms, VIP lounge, onsite fitness room and business center with meeting space, and a continental Breakfast served daily in Studio 360. Services include laundry and drycleaning, valet parking, and car and limo rentals.

The best suite at the Tower is the Executive Jacuzzi Suite. Located on the top floor, this room is surrounded by 3 private balconies with a view of both the LA skyline and the ocean. You can see from downtown to the Rancho Park Golf Course. The suite is quite spacious - a 448 square foot room, with a dvd player, cd stereo and a sitting area. And a step-in jacuzzi for 2 in the bathroom.

Info: 1224 S. Beverwil Drive Beverly Hills CA 90035; (310) 277-2800; www.thetowerbeverlyhills.com/

$38 Special at Broadway Hotel & Hostel NYC

NYC is a costly city for visitors, but for the cheapo types, there's plenty of low budget lodging options. One of these happens to be the Broadway Hotel & Hostel in the Upper West Side. And they're offering a limited period $38 fall special.

Includes shared accomodations in a 4-bed dorm style room with a shared bath, and a complimentary drink at the Kazbar Lounge in the Marrakech hotel close by. Reservations for this offer begin Sept 22 and end Oct 1, for stays between now and Dec 30 2008. More details here (move mouse over the top banner to see the details).

As far as New York hotels are concerned, the Broadway is no great shakes, limited by the relative distance from the main tourist hot-spots. To be fair, that shouldn't really be a problem, since the nearest subway stop is just a couple of blocks off the hotel. Still...

But when it comes to hostels, its not so bad, with about 400 beds all put together. A stay in the shared accomodations includes access to high speed internet, white European bed linens, plush blankets, accent pillows, down comforters, in-room vanity, ceiling fan, air conditioner, hair dryer, private baths with shower massage head, Ecco natural bath products, complimentary linens, towels, and blankets, complimentary local newspaper, daily housekeeping service, and luggage storage for an extra $2 per day.

And you can stay out as late as you want, so you can experience the NYC nightlife, and enjoy languid dinners at restaurants and hit the dance floor at lounges and have fun in whatever way you want. There's a lotta things to do in New York after the sun goes down.

Info: 230 West 101 St New York Ny 10025; (212) 865-7710; www.broadwayhotelnyc.com/

Hotel & Car Package from Hawthorn Suites Sacramento

You know what I like about Sacramento hotels? You get a whole lot more for much less. Seriously, this ain't a catchy slogan or a sleazy marketing gimmick. It is a fact. Compare Sacramento to LA or San Diego or San Francisco, and you'll find that rates are less than half, and you get a room which is at least twice as big as waht you get in the other CA metros, and you get freebies like free parking and a complimentary breakfast. This is standard stuff at most all hotels in Sacramento.

Where the Hawthorn Suites, located in the heart of Sacramento 10 minutes off Sacramento International Airport, stands apart is in the fact that its offering a free rental car along with the usual room, breakfast and free parking. Package includes overnight hotel accommodations in a spacious queen studio suite, 1 day compact car rental per night’s stay, complimentary full, hot, buffet breakfast at the hotel, complimentary evening social hour Monday through Friday, access to the heated, outdoor pool and hottub and fitness center, and free high-speed wireless internet access. How much does all this cost you? $99 per night. Valid until Dec 31 2008, and you need to have a valid driver's license. More details here.

FYI, the hotel offers 1 & 2 bedroom suites, with cable television, in room movies, hairdryers and irons & ironing boards in every room, and full & half kitchen suites are available. In addition to all the stuff mentioned above, you get an outdoor heated pool, airport shuttle service, guest laundry services, free daily newspaper, sports court, Valet service, on-site restaurant (Memphis BBQ), and meeting and event space. And Old Town Sacramento is just 1 mile away.

Info: 321 Bercut Drive Sacramento CA 95814; (916) 441-1200; Website

Green Spa Getaway at the Shore Club Miami

Miami spas are the stuff of legends, and if said spa getaway happens to be green, and includes deluxe accomodations at one of the most luxurious hotels in South Beach, well, that makes it a true spa vacation. Which is what the Shore Club hotel on Collins Avenue offers.

Package includes accommodations, a choice of bamboo massage or organic facial and 2 Acai cocktails at Skybar per reservation. Rates from $375. More details and online reservations here.

The hotel offers a choice of 70 suites and 309 guestrooms, 7 duplex bungalows, triplex penthouse and an private oceanfront Beach House. The standard room that comes with the green getaway package has a king bed, with city or courtyard views, shower, high speed wireless internet, flat screen television and a DVD player. The spa therapy is offered poolside, while you relax with a mojito.

The hotel also houses the Skybar Miami Beach, with 4 bars nestled in a tropical garden setting, and is one of the hotetst and most happening nightlife watering holes in South Beach.

Info: 1901 Collins Avenue Miami Beach Florida 33139; (305) 695-3100; www.shoreclub.com/

So Material Girl at Alden-Houston

The Material Girl who rocked the Astrodome in Houston 18 years ago is back for a Sticky and Sweet tour that includes a Nov. 16 stop at Minute Maid Park. And the Alden-Houston, one of downtown Houston's finest boutique hotels 4 blocks from Minute Maid Park, is offering a 'so material girl' weekend package to help you party (not like a virgin...)

Package includes 2 night deluxe accomodations from Nov 15-16, a Madonna welcome amenity, 3 course dinner for two on Saturday with wine pairings at the hotel's swanky restaurant *17, admission for 2 to Alden's "Sticky and Sweet" pre-concert party on the Veranda with music, videos, and a look-a-like contest, transportation to and from Concert, and overnight valet parking for both evenings. Prices from $619. More details here.

The Alden is a 5 star luxury hotel with 97 deluxe rooms, including 9 luxury suites, all equipped with flat screen televisions, complimentary high-speed internet access, herman-miller ergonomic chairs, dvd and cd/stereo players, in-room safe, mini-bar, feather pillows and premium 400 thread count Egyptian cotton sheets, plush terry bathrobes and towels in granite-walled bathrooms with glass enclosed showers and bathtubs big enough for 2 people, complimentary morning newspaper of your choice, 24-hour room service and fitness center.

The Alden also boasts of one of Houston's finest restaurants in *17, and a hip and happening lounge named a+.

Info: 1117 Prairie Street Houston TX 77002; (832) 200-8800; www.aldenhotels.com/

Breakfast Special from the Ala Moana Honolulu

I figure all Honolulu vacations ought to have at least the basic minimum ingredients including great food, perfect sunny weather, and the hotel itself should be as close to the beaches as possible. There's lots of other stuff you'll be wanting, but this is the foundation on which a weekend or a week in Hawaii is built.

And the Ala Moana, an Outrigger hotel, offers up all you want. And then some. They have a breakfast special package, under which you get select room categories, and vouchers for buffet breakfast at the Plantation Cafe restaurant. The buffet includes scrambled eggs, bacon, steamed rice, breakfast potatoes, French toast or waffles, assorted dry cereals, sliced fresh fruit, whole fruit, assorted yogurt, pastries and breads, juices and milk.

Package rates starting from $149 which offers up a room for 2 people in the Kona Tower with a view of the city, and upto $199 for a room for 2 in the Waikiki Tower with an ocean view. Valid until Dec 31 2008. More details here.

FYI, the hotel recetly reopened after a massive head-to-toe renovation, so everything is sparkling brand new. Rooms offer all the usual stuff, including cable TV, pay-per-view movies and video games, microwave and refrigirator, iron & ironing board, hairdryer, complimentary high speed internet, and bathrooms with tubs and showers.

The hotel is adjacent to the famed Ala Moana Shopping Center, Hawaii Concention Center is a ston'e throw and the best part is the 76-acre Ala Moana Beach Park. Hotel amenities and services include four restaurants offering cuisines for every taste, a popular nightclub called Rumours, business and fitness centers with 14,000 sq ft of meeting space for events, conferences and functions, and a sundeck with a poolside cocktail bar.

Info: 410 Atkinson Drive Honolulu Hawaii 96814; (800) 367-6025; Website

Flemish House B&B Apartments in Chicago

Think about Chicago and history, and most people make a beeline for the Field Museum. But there's lots of history to be experienced, and lived in, on the streets. Take, for example, Flemish House, which dates back to 1892, and is one of the most historical Bed & Breakfasts on the Gold Coast's streets.

Its a posh residential neighbourhood in the city's North side just off Michigan Avenue, but the Inn itself has maintained its historical architecture, and the rates are as down to earth as possible ($155 to $225 depending on the season) in such a 'dignified' area, and considering that Flemish House offers A-grade vintage furnishings coupled with all the modern amenities. The guest rooms feature wood-paneling, fireplaces, in-laid wood floors, and high ceilings.

In-room amenities include wool and cotton blankets and down comforters, fully equipped kitchens with with refrigerator, gas range, sink, microwave oven, and utensils, color television with cable and VCR, individual air-conditioning, high speed wi-fi internet. You have a choice of 1-bedroom aprtaments and studios on each of the three floors. The InnKeepers, Mike Maczka and Tom Warnke, who acquired and renovated the palce in 1997, live on the floor above.

Units are available for 2 night minimums during mid-week and for 3 night minimums on weekends. If you're thinking of extended Chicago vacations, then weekly and monthly stay options and discounts are also available.

Info: 68 East Cedar Street Chicago Il 60611; (312) 664-9981; www.chicagobandb.com/

Pet Palace Package at the Serrano San Francisco

The thing about most pet friendly hotels is that they are pet friendly in name only. Meaning that they allow pet owners to keep their four legged friends in-room, but expect that none of the other guests should even notice that there are dogs or cats in the room next door. But a real hotel which welcomes pets wouldn't be like that. They'd make arrangements to make the pets feel at home, and offer doggie treats and such to entice pet owners to stay.

One such hotel is Kimpton's Serrano hotel in San Francisco's Union Square. They even have a 'Pet Palace package' which goes the extra mile, and in addition to deluxe accomodations, includes special doggy biscuits, and an ample supply of after-dinner disposable clean-up bags. And in case you need it, the hotel stocks convenient pet-friendly necessities such as gourmet lamb & rice dog food, leashes, and rawhide fetch-it sticks. Package rates from $189. Use promo code PPET. More details here.

Complimentary services at the Serrano include morning coffee and tea, and manager's hosted wine reception in the evening, free high speed internet, limo service to the Financial District on working days, a well equipped fitness and business centers.

Plus, most Kimptons, including the Serrano, are pretty neat family hotels and have all the little things like cribs and playpens and pacifiers available upon request. The Ponzu bar & restaurant takes care of the room service, and the hotel offers valet services, including valet parking. Oh, and if you bring in a hybrid vehicle, you get 25% off parking charges.

FYI, I tried a booking, but for dates in September, the only thing available was a couple of suites well above $300, and when I tried Oct, their system said the package was not available. Just so you know...

Info: 405 Taylor Street San Francisco CA 94102; (866) 289-6561; www.serranohotel.com/

Halloween In Hershey

As it is, Hershey Park is one of those kiddie dream theme parks which is a cross between Chocolat and Neverland. And when its time for a costume-themed holiday fest like Halloween, well... Let's just say that the folks at Hershey go nuts.

The Hotel Hershey, which ranks up alongside the Nick in Orlando, as far as family hotels are concerned, is offering a holiday season package for Halloween. Includes deluxe accommodations, admission to HersheyPark in the Dark, breakfast with Hershey characters, complimentarty shuttle to HersheyPark in the Dark, and admission to Hershey Gardens.

Package rates per night from $419 for single, $478 for double, and $59 extra for kids aged 9-17 and $50 extra for children from age 3-8. Rates based on double occupancy and includes tax. Valid for weekend stays bookending 24th Oct and 1st Nov 2008. More details and online booking here.

I tried to do a package booking, and the displayed rate was $517.60, for both the double/double and a Queen bed rooms. The 230 guest rooms and suites, not to mention the hallways, are adorned with original artwork and historic photos. As is to be expected for a town whose claim to fame is the chocolate it produces, the Hotel Hershey is kindof like a dream house, with a streak of sweetness and chocolate running through most everything.

Info: 100 Hotel Road Hershey PA 17033; (717) 533-2171; www.thehotelhershey.com/

Sunday Brunch Cruise with Homewood Suites Del Mar

San Diego is home to a dazzling array of hotels and lodging options, both good and bad. And ugly. :) So when it comes to specials and packages, each of them has to go the extra mile to stand up above the crowd. And the Homewood Suites Del Mar does stand tall, with a Sunday Cruise brunch package.

Includes 1 night accommodations, 2 sunday brunch cruise tickets for adults, buffet-style Brunch, mimosas, champagne and chocolate fountain. Standard rates from $184. For package rates (varies based on holidays) and reservations here or call (858) 523-0500.

The hotel offers two room suites with separate living and sleeping areas, a fully-equipped kitchen with a full-size refrigerator, microwave and coffee maker, and 27" television with cable TV and complimentary HBO, and free local calls. Complimentary hot breakfast every day and evening Manager's reception Monday through Thursday.

Info: 11025 Vista Sorrento Parkway San Diego CA 92130; (858) 523-0500; Website

MoMA Special at the Buckingham Hotel NYC

The Buckingham Hotel in midtown Manhattan may not be as opulent as its namesake in the U.K., but its more than luxurious enough for the common NYC trash who move around in cadillacs investing gazillions of dollars on Wall Street and downing martinis at swanky restaurants in snooty New York hotels. So if you want a slice of the Big Apple, and you want it in style, you aren't going to get any better than the Buckingham.

And they have some neat specials too. If you're interested in museums and art and stuff, one of the specials happens to the Museum of Modern Art (www.moma.org/) special. Includes a deluxe suite and two VIP tickets to the Museum of Modern Art. Valid until October 31st, 2008. Rates starting from $339 per night with a minimum 2 night stay required. The musuem is closed on Tuesdays, so you might want to leave Tuesdays out of your trip plan. Online booking and more details about this package here.

MoMA is just a short stroll away from the hotel, and after having been given a complete facelift by Japanese architect Yoshio Taniguchi, the new 630,000-square-foot Museum has nearly twice the capacity as before. The result, in the architect's own words, is "an ideal environment for art and people [created] through the imaginative and disciplined use of light, materials, and space."

Other specials at the Buckingham include a Central Park Zoo package, an Earth and Space package which includes a visit to the American Museum of Natural History and its Hayden Planetarium.

I'm not saying that these offers are something very special - After all, you could just buy tickets to all these places, and book yourself in at one of NYC's cheap hotels - but there's something to be said about visiting New York in style. You know, the red carpet treatment, limos and butlers and never having to hail a cab... You want to be treated like royalty, then the Buckinghan's the place to be at. And the rates aren't so outlandish either. $339 (which includes the tickets) is just a wee bit over the $250 something that you'd end up paying at other (less luxurious) hotels just for the room (not suite).

Info: 101 West 57th Street at 6th Avenue New York City; (888) 511-1900; http://buckinghamhotel.com/

Great Things Come in Small Packages at the Mosaic Beverly Hills

Yesterday, I wrote about how a free car and parking helps you when you book into one of these Los Angeles hotels. Today, I have another, and even better, car & parking package. Book a room at the Mosaic Hotel and drive a Mini Cooper S or a new 2008 c300 Mercedes each day of your stay. Includes complimentary pickup from baggage claim at LAX, or if you prefer they'll have your car waiting when you arrive at the Mosaic Hotel.

Includes free parking ($25 value). And if you turn up at the hotel in a Totota Prius, they'll top up the tank for you. Rates starting at $400 for the deluxe guestroom, and $420 for the luxury corner room. Book your reservation online and call to make your car arrangements with the hotel at (310) 278-0303.

The Mosaic isn't like the usual monstrosity hotels you find in LA with hundreds of rooms and a tower like building. Its a cozy and intimate experience, with the 49 rooms and suites and the rest of the hotel blending into a seamless tapestry of design and artworks which makes the whole place look like a stylish and luxurious setting in a movie set.

Amenities includes a restaurant & bar, a heated pool with wireless internet, one of the best spas in Los Angeles, and fitness and business centers. The rooms are all equipped with oversize workdesks, eye-level laptop connections and free high speed internet, in addition to a feather bed, goose down conforters, windows opening out into the garden courtyard, well stocked minibar, coffee maker, hairdryer, iron & ironing board and free morning newspaper delivery.

Info: 125 Spalding Drive Beverly Hills, CA 90212; (310) 278-0303; www.mosaichotel.com/

Room With a Vroom from the Inn at Venice Beach

I'm getting a wee bit addicted to these catchy titles. Not that its a big deal, but just goes to show how you can market hotels using catchy titles for specials and packages. I mean, goofs like me pick it up, and write about it, and other people read it, and the hotel gets the media exposure.

What I'm babbling about is the 'Room With a Vroom' special from the Inn at Venice Beach. Includes a traditional room with 1 Queen Bed, a mid-size car rental with unlimited miles for 1 day, and complimentary parking for the duration of your stay. Costs $244 per night. The room comes with coffee maker, hair dryer, iron and ironing board. Complimentary continental breakfast served in the courtyard. More details about this and other specials from the Inn at Venice Beach here.

Other than the sexy title, the reason I'm attracted to the package is because Los Angeles is not a place where the sprawled out things to do on vacation can be seen or visited without some wheels. And $244 is not bad for digs a few blocks from the Venice Beach boardwalk, with a free car, free parking and a complimentary breakfast to boot - with baked goods, fresh fruits and juices, and a choice selection of coffees and teas. And with the price of gas so high, the free car is like getting a gas rebate card, in addition to being more convinient than public transit.

Additional amenities offered include complimentary wireless internet, private balcony, in-room safe, bathrobes, and a refrigirator.

Info: 327 Washington Blvd. Venice CA 90291; (310) 821-2557; www.innatvenicebeach.com/