Recently in Westin Category

Sunny skies and a hip southern vibe. An afternoon spent among the colorful cafes, bars, and shops of Austin's South Congress Street, is a fun way to get acquainted with one of America's coolest towns. Known as the SoCo Shopping District, this vibrant region is just a short drive from the Sheraton Austin Hotel at the Capitol and the brand new Westin Austin at The Domain and Aloft Austin at The Domain. Spanning from Lady Bird Lake to Oltorf Street, the one and a half mile stretch is lined with funky spots brimming with character. Grab a coffee at Jo's (No. 1300) and soak up the ambience from one of the vintage lawn chairs, then head over to Service Menswear a block down. Well stocked with Levi's, Fred Perry, Original Penguin, and Jack Spade Apparel, this chic boutique for the boys earned a spot on GQ's list of the top 100 men's stores. Continue on a few blocks to Off the Wall (No. 1704). A fantastic assortment of antiques fills this eclectic store, constructed of bricks salvaged from an old smokestack. Pick up an old 35 mm camera, a kitschy figurine, or a comfortably broken in pair of cowboy boots. Is it lunchtime yet? Chow down on burgers and fries at Fran's Hamburgers (No. 1822), or salads and sandwiches at Magnolia Cafe South (No. 1920). You'll be all fuelled up for part two of your South Congress excursion. The strip's vintage clothing stores, art galleries, and sneaker shops await. Oh and if you're a knitter, be sure to stop in at Hill Country Weavers (No. 1701) for the best selection of yarns in the city. Got a favorite spot on South Congress? Let us know.

When it comes to accumulating wealth and prestige in Renaissance Europe, it's hard to top the Medicis. From the 14th to the 18th centuries, the prominent Florentine family and political dynasty acquired some of the greatest works of art of all time, inspiring scores of artists and altering the landscape of European culture for generations to come. To get an idea of just how influential the Medicis and their associates were, pay a visit to the Palazzo Pitti in Florence. Located along the banks of the River Arno, the vast palace was purchased by the Medici family in 1549 and later was the home of the ruling families of the Grand Duchy of Tuscany. Napolean even used it as a headquarters in the late 18th century, but by the early 20th century, King Victor Emmanuel III decided to donate it to the people as a massive art museum. Today, anybody can gaze upon the endless masterpieces that were once reserved for the elite, from the works of Raphael and Rubens in the Palatine Gallery to the Medici portraits in the Royal Apartments, a 14-room suite used by the family that had every conceivable luxury. Of particular interest is the Porcelain Museum. Located in the Casino del Cavaliere (pictured), the Grand Duke's former retreat, it contains works from some of the most renowned porcelain factories in Europe, including daily items from the Doccia factory near Florence, and several large dining services from Vincennes, a Parisien factory. Be careful not to bump into anything, as it's all rather pricey. Starwood has three properties in Florence, including the luxurious Westin Excelsior, Florence.

[image via museumsinflorence.com]