Recently in Suzhou Category

Here's some great news for people who haven't planned their winter vacations yet: Starwood's Winter Getaways offer has been extended. Just book by November 24 and save up to 50% off stays at participating Starwood hotels and resorts through March 9, 2009. No matter where on this beautiful blue planet you feel like visiting, you'll enjoy big savings on your winter break. Fancy a trip to Asia? A few days at the luxurious Sheraton Suzhou Hotel & Towers (pictured) might be just what the doctor ordered. Rates start at CNY 680 per night for this unique destination that combines ancient Chinese grandeur with exquisite Suzhou garden features. Located just an hour from Shanghai, this ancient city combines the best of old and new China, with ancient gardens, modern skyscrapers, and some of the best shopping in the region. But whatever destination you choose, you'll enjoy it that much more knowing you're getting a great deal, so book your trip now and start packing those bags.

For Americans traveling to the United Kingdom or continental Europe, it's a sad fact that the American dollar doesn't go as far as it used to. Actually, lets be frank—the exchange rate sucks. But the oddities of international finance mean that there are still some countries where the American dollar still has purchasing power. In his syndicated column, travel guru Arthur Frommer points out that the exchange rate for the American dollar to the Chinese Yuan makes travel to China cheap:

The exchange rate of eight Chinese yuan to one U.S. dollar is so unrealistic—and so greatly undervalues the Chinese currency—that travel to China has become an almost unbelievable bargain.