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There are dozens of accents throughout the British Isles, but few are more colorful than the rhyming slang of the Cockneys, residents of London's East End who, according to history, were "born within the sound of the Bow Bells" (bells of the Church of St Mary-le-Bow). Its rhyming substitutions for certain words - skin-and-blister for sister, apples-and-pears for upstairs, etc. - was originally designed to confuse the authorities when some criminal mischief was afoot, but now it serves mostly to highlight the quick wit and steely resolve of the historically working class citizens of the area. Discover the heart of the Cockney tradition with a stroll through the East End and along the canals, hitting several landmarks and hearing enough quizzical verse to make you scratch your head. This helpful walking tour suggests several major milestones, including Mile End, the site of a Peasant's Revolt in 1381, Mile End Lock, one of many mechanical locks that raise and lower barges through the canals, and the canalside pubs that offer a pint with a view of the action and a constant soundtrack of Cockney slang. And to really put yourself in the center of the action, stroll through Victoria Park (pictured), which was the city's first park dedicated to the common people rather than the royals. Long a hangout of east-enders, it boasts a boating lake, English flower garden, and a Chinese pagoda, a perfect place to duck into if you get caught in the France and Spain (rain). Starwood has hotels throughout London, including Le Méridien Piccadilly.

[image via London is Free]

The village of Ciqikou is only a short ride from central Chongqing, but it feels like something from another era entirely. Named the "Porcelain Village" after its famed Qing and Ming dynasty porcelain producers, Ciqikou is a popular destination for locals and visitors who enjoy strolling the ancient flagstone streets and sipping tea in its many tea houses. The protected cultural site is situated along the bank of the Jialing River near its confluence with the mighty Yangtze, and its streets are lined with Sichuan-style buildings that sell artwork, apparel, and porcelain objects of all kinds. Start at the ancient wharf, where fishermen and traders have come and gone for more than 1700 years, and then stop by a few of the notable houses in town. Zhong's Compound, for example, was built by a late Qing dynasty eunuch who served Ci Xi, Empress of the Qing Dynasty, and is filled with priceless works of art and examples of traditional architecture and design. Bao Lun Buddhist Temple, meanwhile, was constructed without using a single nail, and still draws scores of visitors who pray and meditate in the Ming Dynasty chambers. Ciqikou is definitely a good spot to pick up a souvenir or two of your journey, and you'll have plenty of porcelain shops to choose from. Take your time to find what you like, and don't be afraid to haggle a little bit. Guests at Le Méridien Chongqing, Nan'an will enjoy a stroll through this ancient Porcelain town.

[image via foreignercn.com]

Like most of modern China, the coastal city of Xiamen is a flurry of economic activity, but for those who need a break from the choas, a tranquil escape is a mere five-minute ferry ride away. Gulangyu Island is separated from the mainland by a small strip of water, but due to its status as a car-free destination it remains quiet and serene throughout the day, making it a perfect spot for a relaxing afternoon stroll. Established as a foreign enclave in 1842, Gulangyu was the historic home of the city's westerners, and their legacy can be seen in the many beautiful buildings throughout the island. Most visitors, however, make their way to Gulangyu's inspiring parks and gardens, where the natural world has been left undisturbed amid the mainland's rush to modernize. Shuzhuang Garden, for example, is filled with pavilions, bridges, and towers that exist in peaceful harmony with its sea views. Wander through the Piano Museum (island residents have a remarkably high rate of piano ownership) and then make your way to Sunlight Rock. It's the the highest point on Gulangyu, offering visitors amazing 360-degree views of the island and surrounding waters. If you're not feeling up to the climb, just hop on the cable car for a smooth ride to the summit. You'll feel like you're on top of the world. Starwood has two properties in Xiamen, the Sheraton Xiamen Hotel and the brand new Le Méridien Xiamen.

Warsaw is a major European capital with a fast-paced way of life, but it boasts a spectacular natural oasis right in the city center, perfect for relaxing amid the chaos. Royal Baths Park (Łazienki Park) is the city's largest park, boasting 76 hectares of parkland, gardens, and breathtaking royal buildings. The baroque park was created in the 17th century, and grew under a succession of kings to include a variety of fanciful features, from a Roman-style amphitheater on Łazienki Lake (complete with white columns and dramatic statuary) to the Old Orangery, a horseshoe-shaped building erected in 1788 for the purpose of having fresh fruit throughout the harsh Polish winters. But its most stunning building is the Palace on the Water (pictured), a 17th century masterpiece built for Stanisław Herakliusz Lubomirski. Located on an island in the lake, it's a testament to the sophistication and wealth of the Polish royals, with ballrooms, portrait galleries, a Bacchus room, and a series of spectacular royal baths. Take a tour of the castle and grounds, and then enjoy a leisurely afternoon stroll through the park, stopping for a picnic lunch by the Chopin Monument. It's a perfect place to appreciate Warsaw's hidden natural treasure. Starwood has three hotels in Warsaw, including Le Méridien Bristol, Warsaw.