Recently in Hollywood, FL Category

It's always time for a beach break, so step right this way to beautiful Hollywood, Florida, where the blue waters of the Atlantic Ocean lap against the powdery white-sand beaches of this romantic retreat. Yes, it is just as easy as that, because the Westin Diplomat Resort & Spa, Hollywood, Florida 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 six weeks. There's an awful lot to like at this luxurious beach destination, no matter what your idea of fun might be. An 18-hole golf course and lighted tennis courts ensure that sporty types will get their fill of sweat and adrenaline, while a 30,000-square-foot spa offers a variety of pampering treatments that are sure to please lovers of leisure. Swimmers, meanwhile, will appreciate an infinity-edge pool with a porthole bottom and two waterfalls that overflow into a 240-foot lagoon pool below. (Apparently, one waterfall is just not enough.) As nice as this all is, don't miss out on the beach, which provides a perfect space for sunbathing, water sports, and romantic strolls. The Westin Diplomat is just one of many Starpicks properties this week, so check the list and start packing your bags.

Fort Lauderdale is one of Florida's loveliest towns, with 23 miles of pristine white-sand beaches and plenty of charming shops and restaurants. And The Atlantic, a member of Starwood's Luxury Collection, is Fort Lauderdale's premier luxury hotel, located just across the boulevard from the beach. A couple of days of sun and fun at The Atlantic this weekend might be just the thing to kick the travel season into high gear. It's not a far-fetched idea at all, thanks to Starpicks, which offers last-minute rates of at least 20% off regular rates at Starwood hotels and resorts around the world. So enjoy a relaxing weekend at this exquisite Gold Coast property. Relax on your private balcony, renew yourself at Spa Atlantic, and enjoy an exquisite meal at Trina Restaurant (pictured) followed by a cocktail with an ocean view at Trina Lounge. It's all within reach, thanks to Starpicks. Take a look at this week's list of participating properties, and dream big.

There's a new restaurant at the Westin Diplomat in Hollywood, Florida. Aizia is just over a week old and chef Craig Berkower has created a menu of new takes on Asian classics. Appetizers include beef satay (pictured), curry coconut mussels and toro tartar and entrees include Kalbi-style braised short rib with sushi rice porridge and crispy whole fish. There are also four signature infused Sakes with flavors like clove, coriander, pear, Calendula flower, dates and mangos. The Diplomat is also home to Hollywood Prime and RIVALS Waterfront Sports Grille.

We recently ran across a guide to Hollywood, Florida in a Georgia newspaper that claims the Broward County town might just be the next South Beach. Although we think Hollywood's a bit too aggressively downscale to qualify for that title (thanks to endless chain restaurants and a travel base of college students and Panama City refugees), it's still an interesting look at the city. Peeks at independent local restaurants and stores are also included. Interestingly for fans of deli food, Hollywood is also home to a branch of Miami Beach's famous Rascal House. Hollywood's also home to the Westin Diplomat, one of the only hotels out there with its own 41' sport fishing yacht.