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/

The Art of Being a Kid, by Seattle's Alexis Hotel

No, this isn't some self-help book for grown-ups who want to find their inner kid. This is a Seattle vacations package from the Alexis hotel. The Alexis, being a Kimpton, is extremely kid-friendly anyway, and is one of Seattle's better known family hotels. What this package does is add to the family fun with 2 passes to the newly remodeled Seattle Aquarium, S'mores prepared in-house delivered to your room, the Kimpton Kids pack with watercolor paints, and 1 hour of in-room Nintendo.

For a family of four, with 2 adults and 2 children, daily rates for this package start from $327 for the Two Queen Deluxe room with 2 Queen beds, and $427 for an executive Suite with 1 King bed and a sofa bed.

The hotel was renovated less than a year ago, and the rooms and suites are as good as new. Each room features 300-count Frette linens, feather duvets, a 32” flat panel LCD TV, fully stocked honor bar, Torrefazione coffee, ergonomic Kielhauer work chair and desk, movies & Nintendo on-demand, terry bathrobes, and Aveda bath products, some including a balcony, and offer city views. All rooms feature an iron & board, are non smoking, and include complimentary wireless internet throughout.

In addition to the Etherea Salon & Spa, the Alexis offers a 24 hour fitness facility, private steam room, business center, shopping boutiques on the hotel's main level, concierge services and room service, and valet parking ($30).

Info: 1007 First Avenue Seattle WA 98104; (866) 356-8894; www.alexishotel.com/

Anaheim on a Dime with Tropicana Inn & Suites

Designated as a Good Neighbor Hotel by Disney, located across from the Disneyland Resort and Downtown Disney District and also adjacent to the Pedestrian Parkway, so you can simply park your car for the duration of the trip, and just hop across to the theme parks. One would think that with all this going for it, the Tropicana Inn & Suites would ramp up their facilities and service and brand itself as an upscale family hotel.

Instead, the Tropicana goes the other way - Making a name for itself as one the many cheap hotels for the entire family which dot the Anaheim landscape. Not that that's necessarily a bad thing. I mean, I've seen many family hotels which offer rooms and suites for around $100 which can house the entire family, and which offer the same facilities and services and amenities offered by 4-star luxury resorts. All that's really necessary is for spacious, clean and comfortable rooms, usable bathrooms and good service. That's not so hard to manage, whether the hotel is big or small, luxurious or budget.

While the Tropicana manages to offer some of these things (Rooms from $91, pretty spacious, outsize pool, free parking and complimentary breakfast, great location, wi-fi internet, etc.), its not all sweetness and apple pie. The service leaves a lot to be desired, and their check-in staff need to be taught some basic manners. Secondly, the breakast is nothing to write home about, the internet carries an extra charge, and the entire hotel could do with a full renovation.

But if all you're looking for is a place to sleep in for a night, then you can do your Anaheim vacations on a dime with the Tropicana Inn & Suites.

Info: 1540 South Harbor Blvd Anaheim CA 92802; (714) 635-4082; www.tropicanainn-anaheim.com/

Family Vacation Revolution at Williamsburg Hospitality House

Nothing like good old-fashioned Southern hospitality in the Old Dominion and a history tour in Jamestown and Colonial Williamsburg to connect you back to America's roots. And no one does it better than Williamsburg Hospitality House in Virginia, located across the street from the College of William and Mary, 3 blocks from Colonial Williamsburg amd 11 miles from Yorktown.

Whether you're looking for family things to do or golf courses, or simply romantic hotels for a cozy wine country getaway, the Williamsburg Hospitality House (WHH) offers something for everyone, alongwith 18th century ambience mixed in with the latest amenities and facilities.

Specials include a Family vacation Revolution package - 3 night package for a family of four, with accommodations, breakfast, $20.00 in WHH bucks, and 'Americas Historic Triangle' passes for 2 adults and 2 children, which allows admission to Jamestown Settlement, Historic Jamestown, Colonial Williamsburg, the Yorktown Battlefields and the Yorktown Victory Center. Package rates from $550. Click here for details of this and other specials at WHH.

Restaurants at WHH include the 415 Grill with a regional menu and a full service bar, and Papillion - a garden bistro with a spectacular breakfast spread. WHH also offers an outdoor pool, free garage parking, a fitness room, a game room, meeting and event facilities for upto 500 guests with 14 seperate meeting rooms, a gift shop (The Mole Hole), same day laundry, concierge services and room service. Wireless internet available (extra charge), and you can get cribs, rollaway beds and refrigirators upon request.

WHH offers 296 guest rooms, including 11 suites, 3 junior suites and 3 demi-suites. In-room amenities include hairdryers, iron & ironing boards, cable TV with in-room movies, in-room coffee with coffee/tea maker, complimentary toileteries and workdesks. Rates from $119.

Info: 415 Richmond Road Williamsburg VA 23185; (757) 229-4020; www.williamsburghosphouse.com/

Fishy Package at the Mutiny in Miami

Why on earth would somebody name a hotel as Mutiny? To make it even worse, the darn hotel is located in a place called Coconut Grove in the middle of Sailboat Bay, and has a restaurant called 'The Pirates Bar and Grill'. And the cup overflows when this hotel is steps away from the shops at CocoWalk and also offers a deep sea fishing package. Ahhh... Matey, its the rum talking.

Funnies aside, we're talking about the Mutiny Hotel in Miami. 12 story tower, 120 suites, outdoor heated swimming pool with whirlpool and spa and poolside deck chairs surrounded by swaying palms in a lush tropical setting, fitness center, sauna and steam room. Also accesible in the immediate vicinity of the Mutiny are jogging trails, bike rentals, beaches, golf courses, tennis courts, sailboat charters, restaurants and nightlife hot-spots.

The deep sea fishing package I was talking about includes 1 night accomodations, and 1/2 a day fishing trip for 2 people with all equipment included. Bring along your common sense (deep sea fishing is more difficult than it looks) and leave behind your seasickness. Oh, and after you book the package, call Captain Wayne at (786) 236-4842 to reconfirm your place on his fishing boat.

To make matters worse, whatever pathetic tiny creature you manage to coax out of the depths of the Atlantic will be cooked for you by the Mutiny's restaurant for $12.95 per piece. And don't forget your frickin' pirate eye-patch.

Package rates from $199. Valid until Dec 28 2008. With this rate, you get a 1-bedroom suite with a view of the Bay or the City, private balcony, a King bed, fully equipped kitchen, television with VCR, premium coffees and terry robes.

Info: 2951 South Bayshore Drive Miami Florida 33133; (305) 441-2100; www.mutinyhotel.com/

Romantic Escape at Half Moon Bay Lodge

You don't have to go looking for romantic things to do half way across the world. Half Moon Bay will do. The very name invokes a romantic essence wafting through the air. The sparkling blue ocean, the beautiful beach, the blooming flowery grass running alongside the coast, historical sites like Pillar Point Harbor, and the impeccable golf course on a bluff overlooking the ocean... All this adds to the laidback getaway quality that hangs over Half Moon Bay like a mist, 25 miles south of San Francisco.

And when you have a labor day weekend coming up and there's a quaint hotel offering a special romance package in such a romantic place a short drive from San Francisco, well, its not hard to deduce why the Half Moon Bay Lodge is considered as one of the premier romantic hotels in Northern California. Package includes 1 night stay for 2 in deluxe accomodations, sparkling wine and gourmet chocolate, a romantic gift basket, and complimentary late checkout. Rates from $279, inclusive of all taxes.

For this rate, you get a deluxe King room with a fireplace, private balcony or terrace with a view of either the landscaped garden or golf course. All rooms feature live plants, robes, coffee, refrigerators, and a complimentary deluxe continental breakfast.

And if you want a couples massage for 2, call ahead with at least 72 hours notice. Oh, and this is a Best Western hotel, so book before August 29th, and you'll get a free $50 gift card. They also have a Stay & Play golf package and also a family fun package with complimentary beach blanket, beach toys, a kite and a selection of gourmet treats. Click here for more info about their specials and online booking.

Info: 2400 S. Cabrillo Highway Half Moon Bay CA 94019; (650) 726-9000; www.halfmoonbaylodge.com/

Book 1 Room, Get 1 Free at Hawaii Prince Hotel

The Hawaii Prince Hotel, Waikiki, is offering a 2 for 1 promotion - You book a room, you get one free. The complimentary room is based on double occupancy and must be of equal or lesser value than the 1st room booked. Dates of stay for both rooms must overlap. Valid until Decemer 22 2008. Watch out for the blackout dates, and make sure you're getting value for money, because rates per night, for the one room you need to pay for, begin from $390, which gives you an Oceanfront Marina room (or rooms, if you count the free one). More details and online booking here.

I was going to pass this one by, because they have other packages at rates starting from as low as $189 (for the same Oceanfront Marina room), but then, it comes to about the same, for two rooms. And the reason why I'm interested in this 2 for 1 promotion is because I was looking up family hotels in Oahu. Most hotels, including the Hawaii Prince, offer spacious suites designed to accomodate the entire family, along with a host of family-friendly amenities. It's way cheaper than booking two seperate rooms. Only problem is, you end up sleeping with the kids in the same suite. Kinda cramps your holiday fun a bit.

So let's say you do want two seperate rooms. That's about slightly less than $400 per night, which is on par with rates at comparable Honolulu hotels. The 420 sq ft oceanfront marina rooms are in between the 5th to 9th floors, with views of the ocean and Yacht Harbor. Contemporary decor, floor to ceiling windows that open. Beds are king or 2 beds assigned on arrival.

Speaking of par, mention needs to be made of their Golf Club, with 27 holes of championship golf. And the Hawaii Prince itself has a bit of an exhibitionist streak. 28 floors full of 521 oceanfront rooms and 57 luxury suites sit atop 5 floors worth of restaurants, lounges, meeting and banquet facilities, shops, and other guest and parking facilities.

All said and done, its one heck of a luxury resort with a fitness center, a business center over 20,000 sq ft of indoor and outdoor meeting space, a day spa and beauty salon, multiple restaurants offering genuine Hawaiaan and Japanese cuisine. To top it off, the hotel is located 5 minutes from the Hawaii Convention Center, and 15 minutes from Honolulu International Airport, and just a short walk to the beaches.

Info: 100 Holomoana St Honolulu HI 96815; (888) 977-4623; www.princeresortshawaii.com/

Cocobelle Resort, Fort Lauderdale

No specials here, but the fact is that the Cocobelle Resort on Vistamar Street in Fort Lauderdale doesn't need to put on any specials to attract guests. If I was asked to describe the hotel, I'd say that the Cocobelle was the ubiquitous innocent girl next door - Beautiful, low maintenance, low profile, always welcomes you with a smile, and doesn't give you reason to complain. We're still talking about hotels. I think...

Anyway, you take a look yourself, and then consider the pros and cons. $119 average nightly rates with a choice of 16 rooms, studios and 1-bedroom suites, located 2 blocks and 5 minutes off the beach. In-room amenities include 1 King bed or 2 queens, coffee maker, microwave and a small refrigirator, full bathroom with hairdryers, cable TV with VCD/DVD player, and air-conditioning.

Free parking, free wireless internet and free local calls and cell phones available upon request. There's a neat tropical pool area with a large heated swimming pool. The poolside area has lounge chairs and a shaded table and chairs. Laundry facilities on-site, iron & ironing board available upon request, and you get beach towels when you check-in. No pets, no smoking and no spring break type college kids allowed. Some of the 1st floor units have their own private sitting area in the back.

In a nutshell, the Cocobelle ofers a cheap, homely and convinient lodgings to enjoy Fort Lauderdale vacations, and you have nothing to worry about when it comes to value for money. The hotel has been listed as the 'Best Bargain' in the United States by TripAdvisor in their 2008 travelers Choice listings, and it ranks 1st out of 140 Fort Lauderdale hotels listed in TripAdvisor.

Info: 2831 Vistamar Street Fort Lauderdale Florida 33304; (954) 561-5660; www.thecocobellehotel.com/

Discover Downtown Package from Millenium Hilton, NYC

If you want to wear your 'I Love NY' t-shirt and do NYC like it was meant to be done, then nothing better than the 'Discover Downtown Package' from the Millenium Hilton. After all, New York vacations are essentially all about shopping, theater, restaurants, museums, sight seeing and cruise rides around Manhattan.

Includes overnight accomodations and a $25 Century 21 gift card, 2-for-1 admission to nine lower Manhattan museums, $5.00 off CitySights NY Double Decker Downtown Tour & ZEPHYR Harbor Cruise, South Street Seaport gift bag, 15% off dining certificate to Alfama restaurant (Portugese cuisine) in the West Village, voucher for one complimentary champagne toast at Thalassa Restaurant (Greek cuisine) in Tribeca, and a 15% dining certificate to Church and Dey Restaurant.

And all of that for rates starting from $225 per night. Valid until Dec 31 2008. And this isn't the only special either. In fact, I've never seen so many specials being offered concurrently at other New York hotels. The other specials offered by the Millenium Hilton include the NYC Adventure package, 20% off the best available rates on Sunday, a special summer promo with rates from $189, a Shop and Stay package, Bloomingdale's Shop Til You Drop Package, and a Food Network Travel Package, among others. Click here for online booking and more information about the specials at the Millenium Hilton.

Info: 55 Church Street New York NY 10007; (212) 693-2001; Website

Hotelmare On Imperial Beach

Imperial Beach, it seems, is imperial for more than one reason. This impossibly beautiful beach front strip of land has no use for travelers. Or maybe it was just me. While hotels nationwide are struggling with dropping occupancy rates, Imperial Beach, just off San Diego, has only a handful of lodgings, and half of those are trash.

Don't get me wrong. For starters, of all the beaches I've ever seen (and I've seen a lot), Imperial Beach is probably the most scenic one ever. Secondly, I hate doing negative reviews. Usually, I just let it slide. But this was a bit too much - It was a hotelmare. I could just have booked in at any one of the hundreds of San Diego hotels. But I just wanted to stay at Imperial Beach. Is that too much to ask?

First hotel I went into, it was worse than a dump. Filthy rooms, rude staff and absolutely not worth even the $80 which they charged. I left after 20 minutes, paying a cancellation fee of $10. Next one I went to, it semmed pretty neat and clean and nice, and they didn't have a single room. I asked them if they would have a room the next day, and they said they were booked up well into the fall, and I could maybe try again next year. And with that, the clerk turned his back on me.

Which is when I gave up, and went back to San Diego. There were a couple more which I could have checked out, but after having voluntarily walked out of one, and being rejected out of hand at another one, I really didn't have the heart to face any more hotel heartbreak. I'm not naming names here, cause like I said, I don't do negative reviews. But note to the City of Imperial Beach - Build at least one good frickin' hotel.

Money Bags Special at Chamberlain West Hollywood

Feel like you're being taken for a ride by airlines and their new second bag check-in fees? Not when you're heading out for Los Angeles vacations. The Kor Hotel group's Los Angeles hotels are offering a 'Money Bags' special where they give you hotel credit matching the amount of your luggage fee, upto a maximum of $75. All you have to do to get the credit is to show your receipt at check-in. Participating hotels include the Chamberlain West Hollywood, Avalon Beverly Hills and Maison 140 Beverly Hills.

Use promo code 'MONEY' for online reservations, or visit the specials page on the Kor Hotel group's website, where you'll find other specials along with the Money Bags promo. This special is valid until Dec 29 2008. Rates per room, per night from $269 (taxes extra) based on single or double occupancy. The luggage receipt date must correspond to your hotel stay dates.

What you get for $269 is a Studio Suite, with other options all above $300. The studio suite for $269 is a 350 sq ft suite with a private bedroom separated from living room and work area. Bedroom features king bed with high thread count Italian linens, entertainment center with flat panel TV, DVD / CD player and VCR. Living room has spacious sitting area, large work desk and gas log fireplace, balcony.

The Chamberlain has 114 suites, and amenities and facilities include an American bistro restaurant and lounge, a rooftop heated pool with a sweeping view of the City, fitness and business centers with a conference room and additional meeting space, underground secure valet parking, dry cleaning and laundry services, along with maid service. Babysitting and childcare available on request. Wireless internet is available both in-room and in the public areas, but you have to pay for access.

Info: 1000 Westmount Drive West Hollywood California 90069; (310) 657-7400; www.chamberlainwesthollywood.com/

Endless Summer 2008 in Orlando - Get One Free

The Orlando Travel & Visitors Bureau has just spiked interest in Orlando vacations with something called Orlando’s Endless Summer. From August 15 through November 15, under the "Get One Free" offer, if you book a weekend retreat for two nights you get the third night free. Or buy one attractions ticket and get the second one free. More details here and here's the list of participating Orlando hotels.

And September is also Orlando’s Magical Dining Month, when participating restaurants will feature three-course, prix-fixe dinners for $19 or $29. Click here for more details and a list of participating restaurants.

Nothing much to say, except that free nights and free tickets to attractions are always in vogue. In fact, I'd go so far as to say that this is the first time that I'm seeing the Orlando Visitors Bureau focusing on the other and more conventional things to do in Orlando for tourists and visitors, like dining and sightseeing and shopping and hotel discounts, etc... Everything else besides the theme parks, that is.

If you're thinking Orlando sounds good for a late summer blowout holiday, then you might want to sync your trip to coincide with some major events, so you get more bang for the buck. Here's a full and searchable list of events scheduled in Orlando for the near future.

$26.99 per night in Vegas - Sam's Town Getaway Summer Special

Sounds hard to believe, but its true. $26.99 per night at Sam's Town Casino, Las Vegas, until Sept 30 2008. Minimum 2 nights booking and taxes extra. You get either a deluxe room with a King bed or a deluxe with two double beds. Use promo code SUMMER8. I don't think you'll find a better deal at any of the Las Vegas hotels. More details about the specials and packages at Sam's Town can be found here.

The rooms are 375 sq ft in size with in-room hairdryer and iron/ironing Board, cable channels and movies, high speed internet connection available, with park view based on availability at $10.00 extra per night. You can also ask for rollaway beds and cribs, and refrigerators, if you need these things.

There's also a snug swimming pool lined with Palm trees, and lounge chairs to soak in the sun and the scenery. Roxy's Lounge has live bands and entertainment with sizzling headliners. Multiple dining options to satisfy every taste is available, including Billy Bob's SteakHouse & Saloon, Firelight Buffett, Willy and Jose's Cantina, Panda Express and a wealth of cafes for sandwiches, coffee and quick bites, along with an ice cream parlour and even a McDonald's and a Dunkin' Donuts.

If you're looking for cheap Las Vegas vacations with a bit of resort getaway downtime along with evenings lit up with Vegas style entertainment, then this Sam's Town summer getaway special is just what the doctor ordered. In fact, its actually a bit out of the way from the sizzling things to do in Las Vegas, so while its still signature Vegas, you do get some respite from the extravaganza and the breathless adrenalin pumping excitement of the Strip.

Info: 5111 Boulder Highway Las Vegas NV 89122; (702) 456-7777; www.samstownlv.com/

Hybrid happiness at the Allegro Hotel, Chicago

Chi-town and the myriad things to do in Chicago seem to be getting a lot of attention these days, and well primed to take full advantage of the spurt of interest in Chicago vacations is Kimpton's Allegro Hotel, sharing space with the historic Cadillac Palace Theatre in the trendy North Loop theatre district.

Social undercurrents are roiling the MidWest as the old mixes with the new, hip and cool Chicago - High-rise buildings in historic locations, green, environment-friendly lifestyle clashing with conspicous consumption, a fusion mix of art, theatre, jazz, rock concerts and tech gizmos.

And Chicago hotels sure know how to keep atop this changing culture with packages and specials designed to appeal to these social needs. Take for instance, the hybrid happiness package from the Allegro - deluxe accomodations, complimentary valet parking for your hybrid vehicle and a hosted wine reception in the lobby. Rates from $349. For this price, you get a Queen room, with 350 thread count Frette linens, 37" LCD HD flat-screen TV with cable access and on-demand movies, iHome docking station with alarm clock, fully-stocked honor bar with organic options, iron and ironing board, hairdryer, in-room safe designed to accommodate laptops, and Aveda bath amenities.

There's other packages like Metra Escape. Ride the Metra, present your stamped Metra ticket at check-in and you'll het $10 room credit per adult, valid for any food or beverage purchase, a guide for public transport and trolley use, and a hosted wine reception. And Kimpton makes a $10 donation to the Trust for Public Land for every Metra Escape package booked.

Click here for online booking and to see details about these and other specials at the Allegro.

Info: 171 West Randolph Street Chicago, IL 60601; (800) 643-1500; www.allegrochicago.com/

Seattle Staycation, Virtual Golf at Hotel 1000

Search a thousand Seattle hotels for that really special 'special', and what you get is a Seattle Staycation package at the Hotel 1000 where you can play virtual golf in 'The Golf Club' which magically transports you to authentic and fabulous championship courses from Pebble Beach in Carmel to Princeville on Kauai.

In addition to the two rounds of virtual golf, the package includes deluxe overnight accommodations, 25% discount on spa services in 'The Spaahh at Hotel 1000', two tickets to the Seattle Art Museum, picnic lunch for two to enjoy at a destination of your choice within Seattle, and complimentary overnight valet parking. Rates from $299. Call (877) 315-1088 for reservations or visit the site for online booking and more details.

This hotel is a bit 'different' and more geeky than most other hotels you're ever going to see. For starters, the bathtubs fill from the ceiling. Then there's the 'intelligent' private bar service which takes privacy to a new level. The tech wizardry doesn't stop there either. Smart infra-red technology controls the temperature, the 'Do Not Disturb' signs are electronic, complimentary wireless internet and a 40" LCD HDTV await you in the rooms, and here's the kicker - even the art display is intelligent, and controlled and changed based on your preferences.

In addition to the Golf Club, the hotel also offers a full service spa, a fitness center, and a business center with individual workstations and 6200 sq ft of meeting and conference space.

Info: 1000 First Avenue Seattle WA 98104; (206) 957-1000; www.hotel1000seattle.com/

August Tasting Menu on Delta King Sacramento

Its considered good form to have dinner and take in a show aboard the Delta King riverboat when you happen to be in Sacramento. Kinda like one of the must-visit attractions for Sacramento vacations. And August happens to be a well.. august month for literally tasting the menu on the floating hotel cum restaurant cum theater moored in downtown Old Sacramento.

That's because the PilotHouse restaurant is offering a 4-course tasting menu until Aug 31 2008. First course of Oysters on the 1/2 shell with yuzu and ginger granita, second course of black seabass, a third one with duck breast and the last one with Duet of Parfait (lemon and blackberry cheesecake with chocolate amaretto cream). Prepared by chef Julian Vasquez, $36 for dinner and $13 for wine. For reservations, call (916) 441-4440.

You'll have to check their website for the latest shows being staged in the theater, and if you want to go the whole hog and book in for a floating hotel room, the Delta King offers 44 ornately decorated and completely renovated staterooms with either a view of the Sacramento River or Old Town Sacramento. Have to warn you, though, that the place is darn pretty in the late evenings, with the lights twinkling on the river and the peace and serene calm and slow pace of Sacramento, coupled with the sumptous feasts and the theater and well... its kinda addictive, and you'll hate to let go of it. Best part is the price - rates starting from $81 per night.

As far as floating hotels go, there isn't really anything to compare with, except for the Queen Mary, but as far as Sacramento hotels are concerned, you won't find much else which offers such a comprehensive mix of accomodation, entertainment, location, views and dining - A true Sacramento experience which you shouldn't miss.

Info: 1000 Front Street Old Sacramento CA 95814; www.deltaking.com/;
Tel: Delta King Hotel - (800) 825-5464 & (916) 444-5464; Delta King Theatre - (916) 995-5464; Pilothouse Restaurant - (916) 441-4440

Best Western Stovall's Inn Anaheim

All of America is taking cookie-cutter Anaheim vacations in cookie-cutter chain hotels. Bad as it might sound, there must be something to it if so many people are doing 'it'. And the 'it' is the Best Western Stovall's Inn - Cheap rooms spacious enough to pack in the entire family, decent facilities and perfect location slam-bang directly across the street from Disneyland Resort and the Anaheim Convention Center.

The guest rooms are equipped with mini-fridges, microwaves, coffee makers, iron & ironing boards, hairdryers, high-speed wireless internet and the hotel offers a complimentary deluxe continental breakfast. Amenities for guests include a business center and fully equipped fitness center.

And what's it got for the family? Well, other than the free breakfast, children under 17 stay free, you get free parking, there's 2 swimming pools, 2 spas & a children's wading pool, a coin-operated laundry and laundry and valet service. And a restaurant next door serves breakfast, lunch and dinner. Then there's the Disneyland shuttle, sighseeing tours and park hopper tickets (ask at the front desk).

Last, but most important, you get an extra-large room with two double beds, seperate vanity area and bathroom (and all the stuff mentioned above) at rates starting from $85 per night (for a family of four, with two adults and two children). Plus, stay 3 consecutive nights, and you get a $25 gas card (offer valid until Sept 30 2008). Factor in the gas card and your hotel bill gets slashed to $230 for 3 nights.

Info: 1110 W Katella Avenue Anaheim CA 92802; (714) 778-1880; www.stovallsinn.com/

Got BART? 20% Off at Kimpton Hotels San Francisco

Riding the BART used to be the fun part of San Francisco vacations. Now its also a good way to shave 20% off your hotel bill. Show your ticket stub from BART, Amtrak or Caltrain, and you're entitled to 20% off on the best available rate at any one of the Kimpton Hotels in San Francisco.

Valid until December 31 2008. Participating hotels include Argonaut Hotel, Harbor Court Hotel, Hotel Monaco San Francisco, Hotel Triton, Hotel Palomar San Francisco, Prescott Hotel, Serrano Hotel and the Sir Francis Drake. Call (800) 546-7866 or visit the Kimpton website for more details about the offer and online booking. Use promo code RTR.

Not to make too big a deal about it, but the Triton is the greenest (green as in eco-friendly green) of the lot, while the Drake is the oldest and kindof an institution if you're looking for more than just a hotel room.

And the Argonaut is the most kid-friendly of the lot - Which is saying a lot since they're all Kimptons, which are all extremely good family hotels, with the Kimpton Kids program and other stuff meant to breed loyalty among family travelers. In addition to the usual stuff that Kimpton hotels have, the Argonaut has a great location on Fisherman's Wharf.

Spa Treatment Package At Beacon Hotel Miami

Miami vacations mean squat unless you enjoy the guilty pleasures of one of the high-end South Beach spas which proliferate on the oceanfront like weeds in an unkept garden. Thankfully, almost all the oceanfront Miami hotels have an in-house spa or offer discounted referrrals to one of the nearby spas. Point is, I was just looking through the spa offerings in Miami, and a couple of good spa packages from the Beacon Hotel on Ocean Drive caught my eye.

The first, a spa treatment pacakge, includes room accommodation, 15% off all spa treatments at Miami City Massage. Minimum 2 nights booking required. Rates starting from $159 ($199 for weekends). The second package, called 'Calma ', is a bit more comprehensive and offers two nights and three days in an ocean front room with two certificates for a 45 minute Swedish massage at Le Spa, and valet parking. $284 per night ($344 per night if you book for a weekend). More details about these and other specials from the Beacon Hotel here.

The room that comes with the Calma package has a King bed with a sweeping view of the Atlantic, and is furnished with in-room safe, mini-bar, flat panel LCD TV, cable TV, complimentary wireless high speed Internet, and complimentary breakfast from 9-11 am. The rooms are pristine white, with glistening marble flooring and luxurious haeavy furnishings. Large windows with light drapes cover nearly half the wall and offer a sweeping view of the Ocean.

The Rendezvous restaurant and 'The Bar' make up the dining and drinking options, with both in-door and out-door seating. Other than this, the Beacon offers all the usual amenities like room service, concierge services, valet laundry and turn-down. All said and done, not a bad way to spend a weekend exploring the things to do in Miami, with a couple of relaxing spa treatments at Le Spa, valet parking and a free breakfast thrown in. Sounds like an ideal getaway.

Info: 720 Ocean Drive Miami Beach FL 33139; (305) 674-8200; www.beacon-hotel.com/

Labor Day Hotel Sale & Specials

The clock's ticking out the summer, and Labor Day is almost here. Made plans for the Labor Day weekend? If you haven't had time yet, here's a listing of Labor Day specials and packages for hotels nationwide.

Expedia has a nice listing of 3 and 4 day labor weekend discount deals with air+hotel packages, and gas rebates. Rates from $373. Details here.

Orbitz's Insider Index offers up details about the top 10 Labor Day getaways, along with a promo for flight + hotel package for 3+ nights. Receive $50 off instantly when you book a flight + hotel package for 3+ nights to any of our destinations when you enter promo code LABOR50. Travel must occur between August 29 and September 8. Book by September 1. Details here.

Missing from both these offers are Labor Day specific destinations with family hotels and things to do on vacation which are especially relevant on Labor Day. One such location is Mackinaw City, MI, where the Grand Hotel On Mackinac Island has a Labor Day Jazz package. If you're there, don't miss the Mackinac Bridge walk on Sept 1.

Fall for Hawaii Special at ResortQuest Waikiki Beach Hotel

The ResortQuest Waikiki Beach Hotel is offering a 1 night free special - 3rd night free if you pay for 2 nights. Offer includes a free "Breakfast on the Beach", 2-for-1 Luau, an Aloha Book, free daily newspaper, free wifi service, and children receive a free toy at check-in. Offer valid until Dec 25th 2008. Rates from $174 for an oceanview room. More details here.

Before you start packing and dreaming about Honolulu vacations with Hula dances and Tiki restaurants and snooze-fests on Waikiki beach, you might want to take a look at the weather forecasts, because some volcano just blew its top in Hawaii, and the resultant spew of volcanic ash has closed down flights for the moment. But it should be clear in a day or so.

Comparing this offer with other Honolulu hotels is a bit like apples and oranges, since very few 'decent' hotels actually offer a 3rd night free in Oahu. Getting a good hotel room on the beach, with a view of the ocean, for less than $100 per night is a pipe-dream, even in late summer.

For the record, rooms at the ResortQuest Waikiki sport a cool decor with a tropical tinge and are equipped with air conditioning, a 32" flat-screen TV, and refrigerator. Most of the rooms have partial or full oceanviews, with a private lanai. Standard size rooms aren't all that big, but big enough to comfortably accomodate at least 2 people, with 1 King Bed or two doubles. Standard rates (for online booking) from $225.

On the 2nd floor of the hotel is the cavernous and popular Tiki's Grill & Bar, with lots of space and even more people, ofefring up sumptous seafood and Hawaiaan specials like Coconut Shrimp and Kalua Pig Quesadillas for appetizers, and entrees like a Hawaiian Plate of kalua pig, lau lau, lomi salmon, ahi poke, and coconut haupia.

And since the hotel is located on Kalakaua Avenue, its a pretty good place to start an exploration of all the things to do in Honolulu.

Info: 2570 Kalakaua Avenue Honolulu HI 96815; (877) 997-6667; Website

Hard Rock Hotel San Diego Staycation Package

Finally, SoCal residents can enjoy smokin hot San Diego vacations without having to shell out the big dough on upscale San Diego hotels in the Gaslamp Quarter. That's cause the Hard Rock hotel is offering a Staycation package for Southern California residents.

During the summer months, Hard Rock Hotel San Diego is extending a special discounted rate to Southern California residents of $199 per night, Sunday through Thursday for studio accommodations, with a complimentary upgrade to a Hard Rock Suite, or $239 per night Friday and Saturday for studio accommodations with a complimentary upgrade to a Hard Rock Suite. The rate is valid from August 1 through September 30 and is subject to availability.

In a press statement regarding the package, Eric Seise, hotel manager at Hard Rock Hotel San Diego, says that "The word Staycation can be wonderfully appealing in a city like San Diego. There are so many things to do here and we are just a short drive from the L.A, Orange County and Inland Empire areas. We have it all here at the Hard Rock Hotel including luxury accommodations, awesome restaurants, a spa, nightlife and an ideal location. It’s everything you would fly to places like Vegas or Miami to experience."

Click here for more details or call (888) 593-6177.

The entire hotel is a party animal's dream come true, but special mention needs to be made of the Moonstone Lounge and the poolside area. As it is, the Gaslamp has acquired a rep for Vegas style hard partying, but even for the Gaslamp, the sizzling heat of the Moonstone Lounge with a crush of bodies and parties within parties mixing it up with alcohol fueled abondon is something special.

The guest rooms are equally 'different', with a nod to Rock N'Roll memorabilia, and a mix of funkiness and luxury catering to both music and baseball fans come to enjoy the offerings of the Ballpark. All said and done, this staycation package bridges the gap between the haves in the luxury suites and the have-nots partying poolside, and on the streets.

Info: 207 5th Ave San Diego CA 92101; (619) 702-3000; www.hardrockhotelsd.com/

Escape from Big Apple with The Madison Hotel, NJ

Facing up to traffic-clogged streets is one of the inescapable truths of New York vacations. Or is it? There's a new trend on to beat the bedlam and road rage - By putting up instead at decent New Jersey hotels. Thus, you can enjoy the dazzling array of things to do in New York by day and relax in the relative peace of the quiet NJ neighbourhoods in the late evenings and nights. Not to mention the fact that hotel rates in NJ are way cheaper than what you'd pay in NYC. And hotels in New Jersey are making the most of this by pushing NYC package deals offering free shuttle rides or transit tickets from NJ to exit and entry points in NYC.

Take for instance the Madison Hotel, located in Morristown, NJ. The hotel is offering a 'Big Apple Escape' package which includes deluxe accommodations for two, either Friday or Saturday night, a complimentary bottle of champagne upon arrival, free parking, complimentary continental Breakfast served in the lobby, $50 food and beverage credit towards dinner at Rod's Steak and Seafood Grille, and two roundtrip tickets on New Jersey Transit's Midtown Direct train to New York's Penn Station. rates from $189 (plus taxes).

Now if you were to try to get all this in NYC (and you can forget the free parking, which is a virtual impossibility for New York hotels near Times Square), you'd end up paying well over $350 per night.

The Madison is a family owned hotel, and has been for the last 57 years since 1951. In keeping with this individuality, the hotel offers a home away from home, with large and comfortable guest rooms with four poster beds, intricate and solid wooden furnishings, vanity mirrors, a work desk and cabinet, in addition to the usual modern gizmos and add-ons like high speed internet, first-run movies and a beverage center. Hotel amenities and facilities include an indoor swimming pool and a fully equipped fitness center.

Rod's Steak and Seafood Grille serves up fresh seafood, prime beef and has an award winning wine list. And the experience of dinner in a luxuriously refurbished turn of the century railway parlour car is not one to be missed.

What's not to like? Free parking, free breakfast, cheap and spacious well-appointed rooms, free transport to NYC and when you come back at night, you have free credits towards a royal dinner with a fine menu and excellent wine abroad a make-believe railway coach.

Info: One Convent Road Morristown NJ 07960 ; (800) 526-0729; www.themadisonhotel.com/

End of Summer Special from Clift Hotel San Francisco

If you're planning for San Francisco vacations in September, the Clift Hotel in Union Square is offering an 'End of Summer' special for the month of September 2008 with $50 off the best available rate and a complimentary one-level room upgrade. Use promo code LDP for online booking. rates from $305. Online booking and details about this and other specials at the Clift available here.

In addition to its prime location on Union Square (San Francisco hotels which are not in Union Square are treated like poor second cousins), the Clift also has nearly a century of history to flout. Not to mention the majestic soaring lobby and digital art exhibitions in the famous Redwood Room. Its more like a palace, actually. Which also likely explains why you're treated (and fleeced) like royalty.

Amenities and facilities at the Clift include a state-of-the-art Gym with a top-notch fitness center, 24 hour concierge services and valet parking, in-room massage and spa services, and in addition to the aforementioned Redwood Room, there's also Jeffrey Chodorow’s Asia de Cuba restaurant with Asian-Latin cuisine.

The guest rooms are equally luxurious and oversized, with King and Queen beds, down comforters, 400 thread Egyptian cotton sheets, branded bath amenities, cable television with multiple channels, video on demand and entertainment system, and an in-room safe, in addition to the usual basic travel necessities.

Info: 495 Geary Street San Francisco CA 94102; (415) 775-4700; www.clifthotel.com/

Hotel Menage Anaheim

In the middle of all the big chain and brand name Anaheim hotels on South Harbor Blvd sits the boutique Hotel Menage, which is decidely a change, at the very least, from the kitschy family friendliness of the whole zone. Situated a mile form the Anaheim Convention Center and just a block from Disneyland, the Menage bills itself as a cool place to hang out for the younger crowd, with a swanky restaurant and lounge and a hip pool which aims more for Vegas style heat with a party atmosphere and a poolside bar.

Even the rooms aim to be 'different' with 7 foot tall leather headboards and stunning decor which is not the norm in Anaheim. Loft style accommodations offer either a king bed and queen sleep-sofa, or two queen beds, leather wrapped headboards over seven feet high, midnight toned striped carpet, ambient lighting, cozy sitting area, stunning oversized custom desk, and a state-of-the-art 42" high-definition plasma television. Additional amenities include sunflower showerheads.

Amenities include complimentary high-speed wireless Internet access, imported coffees and teas, hair dryer, and iron & ironing board. Hotel facilities include the K'ya restaurant featuring Pacific Rim cuisine with sumptous seafood options on the menu. Then there's the Mist Pool Bar with tropical palms overlooking an exotic pool and cozy, private cabanas. The pool also offers a spectacular view of the nightly Fireworks extravaganza from Disneyland.

All said and done, a stay at the Menage is a totally different animal from the usual cookie-cutter hotels which offer cheap Anaheim vacations for the entire family. There's nothing cheap about any aspect of the Menage - except for the rates - starting from $119 per night for a Studio King capable of accomodating 4 people, with the Studio Loft King going at $129. Definitely recommended if you're a youngish group touring the attarctions and things to do in Anaheim and in the neighbourhood.

Info: 1221 South Harbor Blvd. Anaheim CA 92805; (888) 462-7275; www.hotelmenage.com/

Givin up the Gas Package from LAX Custom Hotel

I've been talking about the futility of hotels offering gas cards without free parking, and hotels situated in the middle of nowhere offering gas rebates to offset the extra driving distance. These are not real 'rebates'. They're just intended to fray extra costs. Then I bump into this special from the Custom Hotel, Los Angeles.

If you're talking Los Angeles vacations, this is what I call a 'complete' gas package - $25 gas rebate card, free valet parking, and best of all, the hotel is located just off LAX, which further reduces your transport costs. Rates from $139. These are all actually pluses which reduce costs over and above that you would pay at comparable Los Angeles hotels.

The hotel offering this Givin' up the Gas Package is the Custom, located high up on a hill on Lincoln Blvd, a short drive from Marina del Rey, Manhattan Beach, Venice, Santa Monica and Malibu, with easy access via the the 10, 405 and 105 freeways to all the important businesses and leisure things to do in Los Angeles.

Amenities at the hotel include espresso check-in, an on-the-go breakfast bar, Bistrotek restaurant, heated outdoor pool, stadium sundeck, Hopscotch pool bar and grill, poolside cabanas, fire pit and DJ lounge. The 250 guest rooms and suites spread over 12 floors are furnished with flat screen LCD televisions, stereos with iPod docking stations, minibars, complimentary high speed internet, Percale Italian linens and Egyptian cotton bath towels.

Info: 8639 Lincoln Boulevard Los Angeles CA 90045; (310) 645-0400; www.customhotel.com/

Louvre Atlanta High Museum Packages

The Atlanta CVB, along with select Atlanta hotels, is offering a Paris in Atlanta 'experience', with specials that include tickets for Louvre Atlanta and High Museum of Art. While packages offered by each hotel are unique, most of them are offering one night deluxe accomodations for two, two Louvre Atlanta High Museum tickets, complimentary buffet breakfast and complimentary hotel self parking.

Participating hotels include Mariott Hotels and Resorts, Renaissance Atlanta Hotel Downtown, Ritz Carlton Hotels, Four Seasons Hotel Atlanta, Regency Suites, and Wyndham Garden Hotel, among others. Full listing of all the hotels and packages offered can be seen here.

But Atlanta vacations are not all about the Civil Rights Movement, and there's lots of things to do in Atlanta in addition to paying homage to Dr. King. Take the soul food, for example. In addition to arguably having the best soul food restaurants, Atlanta also has a soul food museum. Then there's the 'Gone with the Wind' tours.

But still, all said and done, Atlanta was, is and always will be, about Dr. King. So unquestionably the best and most visitable place remains the Sweet Auburn District with The King Center, Ebenezer Baptist Church and Dr. King's boyhood home.

Artsy Packages at Hotel San Carlos, Phoenix

Who says Phoenix is all wild west and no art? Hotel San Carlos, located in the heart of downtown Phoenix, offers multiple packages for art lovers combining artsy Phoenix vacations with premium accomodations.

For starters there's the Ballet Arizona package, which includes accomodations with preferred seating at Ballet Arizona performance, bicycle rickshaw transportation to and from the Orpheum Theatre, and pre-show dinner at the hotel's 'Copper Door' restaurant. Rates from $149 for single and $179 for double occupancy. There's also a Phoenix Art Museum package and an Arizona Desert Botanical Gardens package. For more details and online booking, click here.

Not saying that this is the best that Phoenix hotels can come up with, in terms of mixing art and hospitality and all the things to do in Phoenix, but for a 'cultured' visitor (or an 'elitist snob', depends on your viewpoint, I suppose ...) from either Coast, its way better than simply being dumped in the middle of the burning desert and told to look out for yourself.

Anyway, the Hotel San Carlos has 121 guest rooms, including 12 suites, all equipped with coffee makers and complimentary gourmet coffee, cable television with 4 complimentary HBO channels, and iron & ironing boards. Each of the suites are named and themed to remind guests of Hollywood legends who frequented the hotel like Marilyn Monroe, Ingrid Bergman, Humphrey Bogart, Gary Cooper and Cary Grant. And yes, the hotel does have a pretty long and rich history, having opened its doors in 1928. The Hotel San Carlos is a State Historic landmark and is the only operating historic boutique hotel in Phoenix.

Info: 202 N. Central Avenue Phoenix AZ 85004; (866) 253-4121; http://hotelsancarlos.com