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Swan Boats and Literary Ducklings at the Boston Public Garden
Friday May 9, 2008
With the arrival of warm weather, travelers are compelled to visit beautiful green spaces, and in Boston, that means the parks of the Emerald Necklace. One of the finest is the Boston Public Garden, a 24-acre paradise that's provided a sanctuary for busy Bostoners since it was created in 1837. As the weather gets nicer, the park's trees and flowers bloom in a spectacular display of spring color, but the place boasts myriad other charms as well. A 15-minute lake cruise on a Swan Boat is a Boston tradition, and a perfect way to catch a breeze on a hot day. And to continue the waterfowl theme, the park also boasts a statue of the ducks that were made famous by the classic children's book Make Way for Ducklings, which tells the tale Mr. and Mrs. Mallard's adventures in raising their brood on an island in the park. If you're in town on Mother's Day, check out the Duckling Day Parade, which will have more than enough cuteness to last throughout the year. Starwood has hotels throughout the Boston and Cambridge area, including the nearby Sheraton Boston Hotel.
Posted by 
| Fast Bites in London
Friday May 9, 2008
I usually focus on restaurants that stand out in a particular city — the cream of the crop, or regional specialties. Sometimes, though, you just want a quick and easy meal to refuel in the middle of a busy day. Chain and fast food restaurants typically fill that role in the States, but what about overseas? How do you know what fast food joint is worth trying, and which to avoid? In this occasional series, "Fast Bites," I'll point out a couple indigenous chains and fast food options that are reliable options for a good meal on the go.
First stop, London! Say you're staying at Le Méridien Piccadilly. Here are some spots to watch for, all within a mile or so of the hotel:
• Carluccio's was started by one of the pioneers of Italian food in the UK, and the commitment to the cuisine shines through even as the chain has grown to 34 locations. Try the best-selling penne giardiniera, topped with deep-fried spinach balls.
• Masala Zone is a good, affordable option for Indian. Mixed platters called "thali" are the best best deals, giving you plenty of food with a range of flavors. The atmosphere is clean and kid-friendly.
Continue reading "Fast Bites in London" »
Posted by Starwood Insider - Peter Foreman - Hong Kong's Symphony of Lights
Friday May 9, 2008
Peter Foreman is the Director of Sales & Marketing at the Sheraton Haikou Resort in China and thelobby.com's expert on the region.
Being a Sydney-sider, I miss, in my opinion, the world's most beautiful harbour, Sydney Harbour. However, on my frequent visits to Hong Kong I am always mesmerized by the evening skyline of Hong Kong and I never tire of the Symphony of Lights show. Hong Kong's Victoria Harbour comes alive with this nightly show that has been awarded by Guinness World Records as the world's largest permanent light and sound show. Laser beams, colored lights and searchlights beam from no less than 44 buildings on both sides of the harbour creating an unforgettable evening. The show is staged to music, vantage points are along the waterfront promenades of Tsim Sha Tsui (Kowloon) or the Golden Bauhinia Square in Wan Chai (Hong Kong Island). For the best seats in town, I reserve a Harbour View Room at Sheraton Hong Kong Hotel & Towers or visit the Sky Lounge on the top floor of the hotel. Arrive early for the window seats and enjoy cocktails and the show together! Cheers!
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More Travel Gear 101: Time for a New Passport Cover?
Friday May 9, 2008
Assuming a new identity is exciting, just ask Madonna. And the perfect time to try out something new is during a trip, when the only things that set us apart from the crowd are our image and our attitude. Some like to travel in business attire, while others won't board a plane without their Juicy Couture tracksuit. But the adventurous add an aura of mystery to their flying costume. A fabulous cravat. Some designer sunglasses. An incredible pair of pumps. Easy items we associate with glamour. But perhaps the best way for the modern traveler to distinguish him or herself from the luggage laden crowd, is with a passport cover. Not only does a sleek little wrapper elevate your passport to instant elite status, it keeps it safe, makes it easier to find in your bag, and provides a bit of anonymity in a seemingly endless line of US citizens creeping toward the next available immigration officer.
A good first stop on your search for the perfect cover is Flight 001, the reputable travel goods store with convenient locations near The Westin St. Francis in San Francisco, and the W New York - Union Square. Simple designs of smooth Italian leather that come in a range of colors, from a classy grey, to a flamboyant fuschia, can be ordered from their website. if your passport insists on couture, Jack Spade makes a gorgeous plaid-lined cover of soft calfskin, in classic black. And if your idea of the perfect destination is the World Series or the Super Bowl, tout your team by toting your passport in a logo-emblazoned cover, available at the Sports Nut Shop.
Posted by Starwood Insider - Lucy Williams - Waterskiing Thrills in Florida
Friday May 9, 2008
Lucy Williams is an Orlando-based writer for Starwood Vacation Ownership.
The arrival of spring means it's time to step off the slopes and head to the lake for invigorating water sports. Although cool spring temperatures prevail across much of the country, nearly year-round sunshine and warm weather make Central Florida the place to be if you want to strap on your ski vest. With an abundance of lakes and sunshine in the region, water-skiing is a popular pastime in this region. To ensure maximum time on the water and consistent skiing conditions, check out Orlando Watersports Complex, an action-packed park designed for wakeboarding, wakeskating and water-skiing. It's the only ski complex in the United States to have two cableways, one beginner/intermediate cable park and a slider park. The slider park is filled with ramps and rails that will help wakeboarders literally reach new heights. Orlando Watersports Complex is an ideal destination for adrenaline junkies of all skill levels, from beginning riders seeking a thrill to seasoned athletes who want a new challenge.
Continue reading "Starwood Insider - Lucy Williams - Waterskiing Thrills in Florida" »
Posted by What Are You in the Mood For?
meet the experts More
Jeremy McCarthy is Director of Spa Operations Development and Marketing for Starwood Hotels & Resorts. 
Jaime Gottlieb is Manager of Online Communications for the Luxury Brands Group.
Carly Eiseman is a California based writer and editor of thelobby.com.
Candice Kraughto is the Director of Public Relations for Starwood Hotels & Resorts Hawaii.
Victor Ozols is a New York based writer, editor and photographer. Destination Spotlight
Los Angeles
This fabled metropolis famous for its celluloid history is part reality, part dream and sunny year-round. Celeste recommends:
A Day at the Getty Villa
Andrew recommends:
The Goin & Lentz Food Tour
Victor recommends:
The City on Wheels
Carly recommends:
Culver City Modern
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