Recently in Aloft Category

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.

A quintessential college town, Chapel Hill, North Carolina is home to the eponymous UNC Chapel Hill and boasts plenty of the perks that tend to accompany popular universities - a vibrant music scene, great sports teams, and tasty restaurants. And there's no better way to explore the campus than by staying at the new Aloft Chapel Hill, which is just a mile from UNC.

Its 130 rooms feature Aloft's ultra-comfortable signature bed, free wifi and a plug & play connectivity station, and a truly spa-like bathroom, complete with modern fixtures, walk-in showers with oversize showerheads, and Bliss Spa products. But before lathering up, hit the gym and take a dip - the re:charge(SM) gym is open 24/7 next to the splash indoor pool. Once you're gussied up, head to w xyz(SM) bar, where you can relive you night-owl college days by mingling over cocktails into the evening. Should you want to recapture the late-night snacking of yesteryear, swing by re:fuel by Aloft(SM), a self-serve gourmet eatery that dishes up sandwiches, snacks, and make-your-own cappuccinos 24 hours a day. If you want to mingle with others, you're just five minutes from Franklin Street's lively clubs and enticing eateries - or head to the re:mix(SM) lounge (pictured), a cool and cozy communal space complete with pool tables. With this much to do, you'll be glad you have that comfy bed to sink into. Book a stay at this hip and eco-friendly hotel for a little back-to-school action of your own.

There's no better time than the present to enjoy a stay at Aloft and Element, the two newest brands in the Starwood Preferred Guest Program, because it's easier than ever to earn Free Night Awards. Now through September 30, 2010, every three stays earns you one Free Night Award redeemable at Aloft and Element hotels around the world, from Aloft Beijing, Haidian in the heart of China's capital to Element Las Vegas Summerlin (pictured), a desert oasis in one of the city's most exclusive neighborhoods. There's no limit to the number of Free Night Awards you can earn, and you can combine them for a longer stay. Better yet, they're redeemable through December 19, 2010 any night of the week, as long as a standard room is available. Register now to start earning - and enjoying - your Free Night Awards.

Aloft Brussels Schuman, the latest new hotel from the Aloft brand, will open its doors to guests on September 1, 2010, and you can be among the first to experience it while enjoying great introductory rates. For a limited time, if you book seven days in advance you can get 30% off the hotel's best rates, with rates from €75 per night. The offer is good for stays through September 30, 2010, so book now and take advantage of the hotel's many perks and amenities. Located near the city center and just steps from all the key E.U. institutions, Aloft Brussels Schuman boasts touch & go check-in kiosks, a re:charge gym, internet access throughout the hotel, a re:mix lounge, and a w xyz bar, perfect for mixing and mingling. Visit here for more information and other hotel offers and come see what all the buzz is about.

Aloft has long been a leader in green technology, and its efforts have just been recognized in Arizona. Aloft Tempe has been awarded the coveted Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification by the US Green Building Council, becoming Starwood's seventh LEED-certified property and the first for the Aloft brand. The honor makes Tempe one of the greenest cities in the country, with a growing number of LEED-certified buildings, including the Papago Gateway Center, AZ State University's Memorial Student Union Center, and the Tempe Transit Center. But even with all of its conservation measures, this comfortable hotel isn't missing a thing. With amenities like the w xyz bar, re:fuel by Aloft 24/7 pantry, re:mix lounge, re:charge gym, and splash outdoor pool, you'll enjoy all the pleasures of home and then some. Plan your visit to Aloft Tempe today and see how great it feels to go green.