The Lobby from SPG

The Taj Mahal: A Monument to Love

2010-09-02T14:40:00Z

The Taj Mahal is considered the pinnacle of Mughal architecture, but some find it to be nothing less than the most beautiful building in the world. If you've never seen it with your own eyes, it might be worth planning a trip to Agra, India to experience the ultimate expression of love and loss. The Taj Mahal was built between 1632 and 1653 by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his favorite wife, Mumtaz Mahal, who died in childbirth in 1631. Its white domed mausoleum, gardens, and integrated complex of mosques and other buildings are especially striking due to a combination of Islamic, Indian, and Persian architectural styles, and visitors can easily spend hours scrutinizing the detailed artwork and wandering the landscaped paths. Guided tours are available that point out the most notable features while relaying the story of its creation, which employed thousands of artisans and craftsmen who created one of the most inspiring building ever created. The Taj Mahal is just minutes from the ITC Mughal, Agra, a Luxury Collection property.

Sleepless in Seattle? Have a Late Night Bite.

2010-09-02T14:35:00Z

Sometimes you just can't get to sleep. Unfortunately, Seattle doesn't have many options for insomniacs, especially downtown. But there are a couple places near the W Seattle and the Sheraton Seattle Hotel if you know where to look.

Kooky Cyber-Dogs is only open until midnight, but it's a great spot for a snack. The eccentric Tatiana is the entertaining owner, preparing an eclectic menu of sausages and vegan veggie dogs.

For a classy nightcap, Vessel is your destination. The sleek bar is a scene on the weekends, but on weeknights it's a quiet respite with inventive, expertly crafted cocktails and a small but tasteful food menu. It's open 'til 2 a.m., as is the Alibi Room down in the lower levels of Pike Place Market, where you can get a more substantial meal and a locally brewed beer.

For those who really can't sleep, there's The Night Kitchen. A haven for insomniacs, third-shifters and the after-bar crowd, the doors open at 6 p.m. and don't close until 9 a.m. Get a gourmet burger, eggs benedict or just coffee by the hour. (Not that you need more help staying up.)

Win 100,000 Starpoints with the SPG App for BlackBerry

2010-09-02T14:30:00Z

It's a wireless world, where staying connected is as easy as picking up your smartphone. With the release of the all-new SPG® app for BlackBerry®, Starwood Preferred Guest® members can manage their travels on-the-go. The new app enables members to search more than 1,000 hotels and resorts across nine brands, including Sheraton®, Westin®, W®, Aloft(SM) and more. Members can access their accounts, book stays, check reservations, get directions, view maps and more. Suppose you're relaxing in the gorgeous lobby lounge of Le Méridien King Edward in Toronto when you get the urge for a serious change in latitude. With just a few clicks, you can search and book a stay at the Westin Maui. And if you're suddenly inspired to visit Tokyo as you're sipping a poolside cocktail, you can use your free hand to search and book a stay at the Sheraton Miyako Hotel. How's that for convenient?

And to celebrate the new launch, members who download the app from BlackBerry App World™ and log-in using their SPG.com username and passcode by September 30, 2010 will be entered to win 100,000 Starpoints®! Two winners will be drawn at random. Official rules can be found at spg.com/BBsweepsterms.

No BlackBerry? Discover all the ways to stay connected with SPG at spg.com/stayconnected.

Rule New York City, by Bike

2010-09-02T14:25:22Z

You may want a gel seat for this one. The country's only all-urban 100-mile bike ride takes over NYC on September 12, 2010, giving you a rare opportunity to bike through Central Park, across bridges, through Brooklyn, the Bronx, and Harlem - surrounded not by cabbies and slow-moving tourists, but by other bicycle enthusiasts.

If you didn't get the Lance Armstrong gene, don't fret: The NYC Century Bike Tour has 15-, 35-, 55-, 75-, and 100-mile options, all of which feature stellar views, stocked rest stops, and safety marshals. The inaugural ride, in 1990, attracted 200 cyclists; today, some 6,000 show up. Proceeds benefit the biking advocacy of Transportation Alternatives, meaning that by riding in New York City, you're helping to make New York City ... safer for bikers the other 364 days a year. And because the ride is an effort to promote the idea that bikers can traverse NYC soundly on two wheels - and deserve to - there are no street closings: You'll ride along city streets and obey all traffic laws. You pick the location that's more convenient for you - either in Prospect Park or on the north side of Central Park, easily accessible from Le Parker Meridien New York, which skirts the park's south end. Don't want to lug a bike there? No worries: There are rental options.

A World of Flora and Fauna at the Los Angeles Arboretum

2010-09-02T14:00:00Z

One of the most salient aspects of the Los Angeles Arboretum & Botanic Garden is that it basks in a balmy Mediterranean climate. Cool mild winters and warm dry summers permit the cultivation of both native species and hundreds of exotic ones from around the globe. Whether hailing from the South African Cape, Chile, Australia, or the Mediterranean region itself, year-round, there is always something of particular interest. An entire horticultural world beckons within the 127 acres of the gardens. Collections are roughly grouped by The Americas, Asia, Africa, and Australia, and encompass bamboos, palms, tropical rarities, desert species, herbs of the world, rose gardens and citrus groves. The Arboretum's famous peacock (see video) adds moving color to the landscapes while keeping the snail population under control. Water features like Baldwin Lake host migrating bird species and offer refreshing coolness. Plant society sales and meetings occur all through the year, offering rare specimens not easily found at most nurseries. It's a great resource for anyone who has the desire to delve deeper into the cultivation of particular species, whether it be orchids, chrysanthemums, ferns, daylilies, or into the precise arts of bonsai and ikebana. Increasingly, the Arboretum is focusing on the unique challenges of gardening and landscaping in a dry climate, with demonstration gardens and opportunities to learn about green living, water conservation, and organic gardening. These valuable lessons can be taken home and put into practice on even the smallest piece of Eden. Visits to the Arboretum can be planned from any of Starwood's 23 Los Angeles area hotels, including the nearby Westin Pasadena or the Sheraton Pasadena.

Celebrate Fashion Week in New York With The Four Points by Sheraton Manhattan SoHo Village

2010-09-01T16:35:00Z

New Yorkers are a stylish lot throughout the year, but especially during Fashion Week in September. If you're planning on taking in a few runway shows - or at least watching the never-ending fashion show on the city's streets and sidewalks - here's an offer that can make your New York style dreams come true. The Four Points Fashion offer boasts great September rates at the Four Points by Sheraton Manhattan SoHo Village and a fabulous package of fashion goodies to go with it. Rates start at $299 and include a lobby wine reception from 5:00 to 5:30 p.m. on the evening of Fashion's Night Out (September 10), a L'Oreal Matrix gift package with L'Oréal Professionnel Series Expert Vitamino Color, Delicate Color Shampoo, and Masque, and a copy of Women's Wear Daily - to keep up on all the latest trends. This charming hotel is conveniently located on Charlton Street in SoHo, just a few Manolo-clad steps away from the city's best restaurants, nightclubs, and shopping, so you're bound to have amazing fashion experience no matter where you go. The offer is good for stays between September 7 and September 19, 2010 and requires a two-night minimum stay. Book your Four Points Fashion adventure today.

Destination Spotlight - Bahia Beach, Puerto Rico

2010-09-01T16:05:46Z

Bahia Beach, Puerto Rico

Set amongst the El Yunque Rainforest, the only tropical rainforest in the US, this majestic destination boasts world-class golf, signature dining and a myriad of outdoor pursuits. Book your trip now!

Destination Spotlight - Bahía Beach, Puerto Rico - Dine Among the Ferns

2010-09-01T14:08:30Z

When the St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort opens in November, so will the latest signature restaurant by acclaimed chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten: Fern by Jean-Georges.

"I am very excited about becoming a part of the new St. Regis Resort, Bahía Beach in Puerto Rico," Chef Jean-Georges says. "I love the Caribbean, the rainforest, the beaches and the warm people."

Much as it does at Lagoon at the St. Regis Resort in Bora Bora, the menu will no doubt make the most of local fresh fish, too, such as grouper, wahoo and dorado (aka mahi-mahi). Fortunately for Jean-Georges, Puerto Rico's local agriculture is quite robust, so he and his chefs won't be forced to travel to nearby islands to forage for staples. Fern blends the chef's signature "vibrant cuisine," which draws on the flavors and culinary traditions of both France and Asia, with traditional Puerto Rican ingredients such as papaya, mango, yuca and coconut.

Amazing Views of Venice's Historical Regatta With Two Gala Lunch Offers

2010-09-01T13:45:00Z

On Saturday, September 5, 2010, the canals of Venice will be resplendent with colorful boats as the Regata Storica (Historical Regatta) keeps alive a tradition that's over 500 years old. The event begins with a procession of blue, red, gold, and green 16th century-style boats along the Grand Canal, with the famous Bucintoro, the boat representing the Serenissima, at its head. Then comes a competition, with races between varying types of historic boats, from mascareta and caorlina to the famous gondolas Venice is known for. For an amazing view of the action, two of Starwood's Venice properties are offering special Historical Regatta Gala Lunch offers. At the Hotel Gritti Palace, Venice, reserve a table at the Restaurant Club del Doge and enjoy such delicacies as lobster salad with dried bacon, baked wild sea bass with crunchy salt, and dark chocolate mousse with passion fruit. The Westin Europa & Regina, Venice, meanwhile, invites you to its La Cusina Restaurant, where you'll feast on everything from marinated amberjack and Sicilian prawns to raspberry mousse with white chocolate. Of course, both lunches come with an amazing selection of wines as well as some of the best views of the festivities in all of Venice. Book your table for the Club del Doge or La Cusina today and cheer for your favorite gondola team in one of Europe's most exciting aquatic events.

Destination Spotlight - Bahía Beach, Puerto Rico: Tee Off at the Robert Trent Jones, Jr. Golf Course

2010-08-31T14:55:00Z

For more than 40 years, Puerto Rico has been a favorite destination of golfers, but this year players of the gentleman's game have two more reasons to polish the clubs and head to the island. The Robert Trent Jones, Jr. Golf Course is one of the most exciting new courses in the world, having opened recently along a gorgeous stretch of Bahía Beach. Better still, this world class course is just steps from the brand new The St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort, Puerto Rico, which will open its doors to guests on November 4, 2010. Spread out over 6,979 yards, the course overlooks the Atlantic ocean, 80 acres of saltwater lagoons, and the mountainous El Yunque rainforest, giving players plenty of challenges with every hole. The par-three fourth hole, for example, requires a short carry over water to a large, triangular green, while the three final holes play directly along the ocean and beach - offering little room for error and plenty of natural beauty to test one's focus. But no matter how the round goes, golfers will be glad to return to the St. Regis Bahia Beach after the 18th for dinner at Fern by Jean Georges, where a world of culinary delights comes with views of swaying palm trees. Brag about your best shots over drinks at the St. Regis bar and start making plans for another golf getaway.

Starpick Aloft National Harbour

2010-08-31T14:35:04Z

Washington, D.C.'s new National Harbour is one of the most exciting leisure destinations to emerge in the capital area in years, and if you've never had a chance to explore it, here's a great opportunity. Aloft Washington National Harbor is one of this week's participating Starpicks properties, with last-minute rates of at least 20% off regular rates for stays during the next two weekends. Perched along the Potomac River, this centrally located property is just steps from all the fun. Shop till you drop at retailers like South Moon Under, Jos. A. Bank, and Godiva Chocolates. Dine at restaurants like Bond 45, Rosa Mexicano, and Foster's Crab & Lobster. And take in exciting shows like Cirque du Soleil's Ovo and Movies on the Potomac, or enjoy one of five different river cruises. When the day's over, you'll delight in the many amenities of Aloft National Harbour, from its Splash pool and re:charge gym to the buzzy re:mix lounge, where you can relax and chit-chat with friends and family in a vibrant, social setting. It's a perfect place to reflect on the day's activities and start planning your next adventure. New Starpicks properties are posted every Tuesday, so check the list for your next getaway.

Destination Spotlight - Bahía Beach, Puerto Rico - Tap Into the Nature Lover in You in the El Yunque Rainforest

2010-08-31T14:00:31Z

If you believe there aren't any tropical rainforests in the United States Forest System, you're almost right. The US lays claim to just one, the El Yunque Rainforest, a magical and majestic spot within view of the St. Regis Bahía Beach Resort, which is scheduled to open November. 4, 2010.

As you would expect of a tropical rainforest, El Yunque provides shelter to many exotic fish (snook and tarpon), birds (pelicans), animals (West Indian whistling ducks, iguanas), and lush flora whose growth is aided by the more than 100 billion gallons of rain that fall annually. The slow-moving Espiritu Santo River winds through the forest and along the eastern border of the St. Regis, putting kayaking and canoeing within easy reach. Tackle El Yunque's Mt. Britton, a 3,088-foot peak that takes about 45 minutes to climb and provides beautiful views of the rainforest, or hike in hopes of seeing the endangered Puerto Rican parrot, the only remaining native parrot in Puerto Rico. The US Fish & Wildlife Service estimates that there are only about 40 of them left in the wild, all of which live in El Yunque. If you're a nature lover who can't wait to try and spot the brilliant green birds with the red forehead, you'll likely be glad to know that Bahía Beach will have a naturalist on staff to lead walks and conduct workshops.

[image via Wikimedia Commons]

Go Hiking Near Denver at Castlewood Canyon State Park

2010-08-30T14:33:35Z

For some great hiking just minutes from Denver, check out Castlewood Canyon State Park. Located south of the city in Franktown, it boasts excellent hiking, picnicking, rock climbing, and sightseeing. Trails range from just half a mile to four miles, and can be combined for longer journeys. Bring plenty of water and some snacks, because the winding Cherry Creek flowing along the canyon floor provides a host of gorgeous rest stops where your lunch comes with amazing natural views. Other highlights include a natural amphitheater and the Bridge Canyon Overlook Gazebo, which affords perfect photo-ops and plenty of romantic sunsets. You can even find remnants of local history in the ruins of Castlewood Dam, which burst in 1933, sending a 15-foot-high wall of water into Denver. Best of all, after a day of rigorous exercise, you can shower and relax before a fantastic dinner in town. Starwood has eight hotels in and around Denver, including the Westin Tabor Center, Denver.

[image via Colorado State Parks]

Introducing the Four Points by Sheraton Oklahoma City Quail Springs

2010-08-30T14:25:30Z

Attention, golf lovers: Though Oklahoma City may not be the first place that comes to mind when pondering great places to golf, its Quail Springs neighborhood has quite a link-themed claim to fame: The neighborhood's name comes from the Quail Creek residential development, which was one of the country's first neighborhood golf communities when it was built in the early '60s. Today, the area is still known for its courses, which include the Quail Creek Golf and Country Club and the Silver Horn Golf Club. But booking a room at the Four Points by Sheraton Oklahoma City Quail Springs puts plenty to do in close range for those who prefer Nine West to nine-irons. The Quail Springs Mall is literally steps away, putting a premier mix of 160 shops and a 24-screen cinema within easy reach. When you're done shopping and swinging, return to the comforts of the hotel, whose spacious rooms and Jacuzzi suites come complete with flat-screen TVs, free high-speed internet, modern-style bathrooms, and Four Comfort™ Beds. An indoor swimming pool and whirlpool puts relaxation close at hand, and a free business happy hour starts each evening right. In addition to a 24-hour grab-n-go market, the KMR Grill serves everything from cooked-to-order eggs to delicious dinners. Book a room and explore this northern Oklahoma City neighborhood today.

An Art Museum for the 21st Century in Rome

2010-08-30T14:17:16Z

When it comes to art and design, few countries can boast a grander legacy than Italy. There's no denying the genius of those renaissance masters, but frankly, they're starting to feel a bit, well... ancient. On my next trip to Rome, I'd like to see something new. That's why I'll be heading to MAXXI, the recently established national museum of 21st century art.

Designed by British-Iraqi architect Zaha Hadid, the angular, concrete structure is devoted to "contemporary creativity." Cultural events and a rich educational program compliment the museum's array of exhibitions devoted to art and architecture. Exciting works by the likes of Joseph Beuys, Andy Warhol, Anish Kapoor, Gerhard Richter, Sol LeWitt, and Fabio Mauri comprise the museum's collection, and are on view in the exhibition "Spazio," which runs through January 23, 2011. Other current exhibitions feature the video installations of Kutlug Ataman, the works of Italian artist Gino De Dominicis, and Luigi Moretti's architectural masterpieces. The art is spectacular and inspiring, but the building itself is reason alone to visit this marvelous new museum. A gargantuan space defined by geometric shapes, curving ramps, even planes, and long straight lines, Hadid's building is already one of Rome's most extraordinary landmarks. There's the Pantheon, the Colosseum, and now there's MAXXI.

Stay at the elegant Hotel Eden. Set among Rome's verdant parklands and historic villas it's a stroll away from the Spanish Steps. Because after spending the day at such a modern, innovative museum, you know you'll be craving a little bit of Ancient Rome now won't you?