Recently in Argentina Category

The city of Mendoza, Argentina has gained prominence over the past decade as a great jumping-off point for adventures in the Andes, but it's also becoming a serious luxury destination in its own right. The new Sheraton Mendoza Hotel is a five-star destination, perfect for touring wine country or embarking on a great trek through the mountains. It's also 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. Located in the heart of Mendoza city in the foothills of the Andes, this luxurious hotel has everything you need to feel your best. Each of its 180 spacious guest rooms features the Sheraton Sweet Sleeper bed and amenities like LCD TV and high speed internet access. An indoor pool and fitness facility will make sure you stay in shape for your adventures, wherever they may take you. And Link@Sheraton experienced with Microsoft will ensure you're always in touch with family, friends, and business colleagues. Acequias restaurant is the place to go for small bites and a selection of fine coffees and teas, while the 17th floor El Mirador Restaurant offers sophisticated cuisine in an elegant setting with 360-degree views of the city and surrounding mountains. Of course, the Sheraton Mendoza is just one of dozens of Starpicks properties this week, so check the list for the destination of your dreams.

SPG's "Passport to Free Weekends" scavenger hunt had its final stop in the southern hemisphere on Tuesday as it ventured from Australia to Argentina. In Buenos Aires, the legendary capital of tango dancing, it was revealed that the Sheraton Buenos Aires Hotel & Convention Center was the mystery hotel of the day. Travelers following clues on SPG's Twitter and Facebook pages raced to the hotel for the opportunity to win a Free Weekend.

Elaine (pictured) was one of the 10 lucky winners to ask for her "Free Weekends Passport Photo" at the front desk and won two Free Weekend Nights to the destination of her choice.

Located above it all, in the center of it all, the Sheraton Buenos Aires is the ultimate destination for an Argentinean adventure, with easy access to the Museum of Fine Arts, the Plaza de Mayo, and countless shops, galleries, and tango lounges. The 24-story hotel has 742 tastefully decorated guest rooms and suites that offer breathtaking views of the city and the Rio de la Plata. Two swimming pools - including one with a sundeck and outdoor bar - offer a great way to keep cool under the sun. Those looking for some exercise can visit the fully-staffed Neptune Fitness Center, or play tennis day or night on the lighted outdoor courts.

Buenos Aires' status as a culinary capital is reflected in all of the hotel's restaurants, from the Italian buffet at Cardinale Ristorante to El Aljibe Restaurant, which serves upscale international dishes and fine wines in an elegant atmosphere. After-dinner cocktails at the Lobby Bar come with live piano music, perfect for planning your next adventure.

From Toronto to Buenos Aires, SPG's Passport to Free Weekends contest has traveled around the world awarding 100 winners with two Free Weekend Night Awards to the destination of their choice. We hope you share your travels with us for future stories on theLobby.com. But remember the SPG Free Weekends promotion is not over! Earn more Awards for your stays by registering at spg.com/freeweekends through June 30.

Buenos Aires is one of South America's most cosmopolitan cities, filled with vibrant culture, fine cuisine, and beautiful architecture. It's also the home of the Sheraton Mar del Plata Hotel, which 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. Located just minutes from the business district, numerous golf courses, and several gorgeous Atlantic beaches, this sophisticated destination is the ultimate base from which to explore the city. Spend your day visiting world class museums and historic sites like La Casa Rosada, El Museo Histórico Nacional, and the Evita Museum, which celebrates the life of one of the most beloved and controversial figures in Argentina's history. When you've had your fill, make your way back to the hotel for some serious pampering at the Neptune Spa, with its indoor heated whirlpool, sauna baths, and soothing massages, or stay fit and trim at the state-of-the-art fitness center. Dinner comes with breathtaking views at Las Barcas restaurant, which serves international cuisine in a sophisticated environment, while there are few better places to relax into the evening than the Lobby Bar, where the cocktails are as engaging as the conversation. Of course, the Sheraton Mar del Plata is just one of dozens of Starpicks properties this week, so check the list for the destination of your desires.

Here's some good news for members who love racking up Starpoints toward free travel. You can now earn up to 1,000 bonus Starpoints simply by staying at one of more than 500 participating hotels and resorts across North America and Latin America this summer or fall. It couldn't be easier, simply register here and then book a stay at some of Starwood's most exciting destinations, from the Royal Hawaiian, Waikiki to the Sheraton Rio Hotel & Resort. Say, for example, you've always wanted to visit Argentina's wine country. You could enjoy a stay at the Patios de Cafayate Hotel & Spa (pictured), a Luxury Collection property with spectacular views of the Calchaquí Valley vineyards, and get 1,000 bonus Starpoints for future travel anywhere in the world. Free travel is a wonderful thing, so register and stay by November 30, 2009 and watch the Starpoints add up.