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blackberry_image.jpgIt's a wireless world, where staying connected is as easy as picking up your smartphone. With the release of the all-new SPG® app for BlackBerry®, Starwood Preferred Guest® members can manage their travels on-the-go. The new app enables members to search more than 1,000 hotels and resorts across nine brands, including Sheraton®, Westin®, W®, Aloft(SM) and more. Members can access their accounts, book stays, check reservations, get directions, view maps and more. Suppose you're relaxing in the gorgeous lobby lounge of Le Méridien King Edward in Toronto when you get the urge for a serious change in latitude. With just a few clicks, you can search and book a stay at the Westin Maui. And if you're suddenly inspired to visit Tokyo as you're sipping a poolside cocktail, you can use your free hand to search and book a stay at the Sheraton Miyako Hotel. How's that for convenient?

And to celebrate the new launch, members who download the app from BlackBerry App World™ and log-in using their SPG.com username and passcode by September 30, 2010 will be entered to win 100,000 Starpoints®! Two winners will be drawn at random. Official rules can be found at spg.com/BBsweepsterms.

No BlackBerry? Discover all the ways to stay connected with SPG at spg.com/stayconnected.

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FourPointsSoho.JPGNew Yorkers are a stylish lot throughout the year, but especially during Fashion Week in September. If you're planning on taking in a few runway shows - or at least watching the never-ending fashion show on the city's streets and sidewalks - here's an offer that can make your New York style dreams come true. The Four Points Fashion offer boasts great September rates at the Four Points by Sheraton Manhattan SoHo Village and a fabulous package of fashion goodies to go with it. Rates start at $299 and include a lobby wine reception from 5:00 to 5:30 p.m. on the evening of Fashion's Night Out (September 10), a L'Oreal Matrix gift package with L'Oréal Professionnel Series Expert Vitamino Color, Delicate Color Shampoo, and Masque, and a copy of Women's Wear Daily - to keep up on all the latest trends. This charming hotel is conveniently located on Charlton Street in SoHo, just a few Manolo-clad steps away from the city's best restaurants, nightclubs, and shopping, so you're bound to have amazing fashion experience no matter where you go. The offer is good for stays between September 7 and September 19, 2010 and requires a two-night minimum stay. Book your Four Points Fashion adventure today.

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Regata Storico 4.jpgOn Saturday, September 5, 2010, the canals of Venice will be resplendent with colorful boats as the Regata Storica (Historical Regatta) keeps alive a tradition that's over 500 years old. The event begins with a procession of blue, red, gold, and green 16th century-style boats along the Grand Canal, with the famous Bucintoro, the boat representing the Serenissima, at its head. Then comes a competition, with races between varying types of historic boats, from mascareta and caorlina to the famous gondolas Venice is known for. For an amazing view of the action, two of Starwood's Venice properties are offering special Historical Regatta Gala Lunch offers. At the Hotel Gritti Palace, Venice, reserve a table at the Restaurant Club del Doge and enjoy such delicacies as lobster salad with dried bacon, baked wild sea bass with crunchy salt, and dark chocolate mousse with passion fruit. The Westin Europa & Regina, Venice, meanwhile, invites you to its La Cusina Restaurant, where you'll feast on everything from marinated amberjack and Sicilian prawns to raspberry mousse with white chocolate. Of course, both lunches come with an amazing selection of wines as well as some of the best views of the festivities in all of Venice. Book your table for the Club del Doge or La Cusina today and cheer for your favorite gondola team in one of Europe's most exciting aquatic events.

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Starpick Aloft National Harbour

Tuesday August 31, 2010

Aloft National Harbor 5.jpgWashington, D.C.'s new National Harbour is one of the most exciting leisure destinations to emerge in the capital area in years, and if you've never had a chance to explore it, here's a great opportunity. Aloft Washington National Harbor 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. Perched along the Potomac River, this centrally located property is just steps from all the fun. Shop till you drop at retailers like South Moon Under, Jos. A. Bank, and Godiva Chocolates. Dine at restaurants like Bond 45, Rosa Mexicano, and Foster's Crab & Lobster. And take in exciting shows like Cirque du Soleil's Ovo and Movies on the Potomac, or enjoy one of five different river cruises. When the day's over, you'll delight in the many amenities of Aloft National Harbour, from its Splash pool and re:charge gym to the buzzy re:mix lounge, where you can relax and chit-chat with friends and family in a vibrant, social setting. It's a perfect place to reflect on the day's activities and start planning your next adventure. New Starpicks properties are posted every Tuesday, so check the list for your next getaway.

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OKLA.jpgAttention, golf lovers: Though Oklahoma City may not be the first place that comes to mind when pondering great places to golf, its Quail Springs neighborhood has quite a link-themed claim to fame: The neighborhood's name comes from the Quail Creek residential development, which was one of the country's first neighborhood golf communities when it was built in the early '60s. Today, the area is still known for its courses, which include the Quail Creek Golf and Country Club and the Silver Horn Golf Club. But booking a room at the Four Points by Sheraton Oklahoma City Quail Springs puts plenty to do in close range for those who prefer Nine West to nine-irons. The Quail Springs Mall is literally steps away, putting a premier mix of 160 shops and a 24-screen cinema within easy reach. When you're done shopping and swinging, return to the comforts of the hotel, whose spacious rooms and Jacuzzi suites come complete with flat-screen TVs, free high-speed internet, modern-style bathrooms, and Four Comfort™ Beds. An indoor swimming pool and whirlpool puts relaxation close at hand, and a free business happy hour starts each evening right. In addition to a 24-hour grab-n-go market, the KMR Grill serves everything from cooked-to-order eggs to delicious dinners. Book a room and explore this northern Oklahoma City neighborhood today.

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Introducing the Aloft Chapel Hill

Friday August 27, 2010

aloft.jpgA quintessential college town, Chapel Hill, North Carolina is home to the eponymous UNC Chapel Hill and boasts plenty of the perks that tend to accompany popular universities - a vibrant music scene, great sports teams, and tasty restaurants. And there's no better way to explore the campus than by staying at the new Aloft Chapel Hill, which is just a mile from UNC.

Its 130 rooms feature Aloft's ultra-comfortable signature bed, free wifi and a plug & play connectivity station, and a truly spa-like bathroom, complete with modern fixtures, walk-in showers with oversize showerheads, and Bliss Spa products. But before lathering up, hit the gym and take a dip - the re:charge(SM) gym is open 24/7 next to the splash indoor pool. Once you're gussied up, head to w xyz(SM) bar, where you can relive you night-owl college days by mingling over cocktails into the evening. Should you want to recapture the late-night snacking of yesteryear, swing by re:fuel by Aloft(SM), a self-serve gourmet eatery that dishes up sandwiches, snacks, and make-your-own cappuccinos 24 hours a day. If you want to mingle with others, you're just five minutes from Franklin Street's lively clubs and enticing eateries - or head to the re:mix(SM) lounge (pictured), a cool and cozy communal space complete with pool tables. With this much to do, you'll be glad you have that comfy bed to sink into. Book a stay at this hip and eco-friendly hotel for a little back-to-school action of your own.

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Arion Pool 5.jpgWhen it comes to the fine art of living well, it's tough to top the Greeks. The combination of delicious food, fine wine, great weather, and an unbridled enthusiasm for life makes every visit to the Hellenic Republic a singular pleasure. If you could use a few days of fun in Greece, here's an excellent opportunity. The Arion Resort & Spa, Astir Palace, Athens 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 eight weeks. Located on the crystal blue waters of the Athenian Riviera, this five star resort offers everything you'd expect from a Luxury Collection destination, with luxurious guest rooms and suites adorned with creative touches and distinctive garden surroundings and common areas. Spend your day lounging at the pool, sunning on the private beach, playing basketball on the hotel's own court, or unwinding in the sauna. Freshen up in your guest room in the afternoon and then savor a traditional Greek dinner at award-winning restaurant Galazia Hytra, which offers a delicious menu highlighting fresh ingredients and traditional local flavors. Top your evening off with a nightcap at Sofa Bar and you'll be plotting your return to this Athenian paradise soon. New Starpicks properties are posted every Tuesday, so check the list for the destination of your dreams.

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Urban an American Grill.jpgThe Westin Austin at the Domain is one of the most exciting new destinations in the City of the Violet Crown, and if you've never had the pleasure of a stay there, here's a great opportunity. The Brunch of Soul Sundays package offers a great Saturday night rate, as well as brunch in one of the city's most inventive restaurants. Rates start at just $159 and include Sunday brunch for two at urban, an american grill (pictured), where the meal comes with live music and local ingredients. So spend your Saturday night experiencing the city's famous live music scene, and after a great night's sleep on your Westin Heavenly Bed, keep the fun going with a musical meal to start your Sunday. The offer is good for Saturday stays through December 31, 2010 and can be booked online or by calling 866-716-8137 and asking for rate plan SOULPKG.

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Starpick the W Atlanta - Perimeter

Tuesday August 24, 2010

W Atlanta Perimeter 4.jpgAtlanta has a knack for striking a perfect balance of southern comfort and cosmopolitan style, making it an ideal destination for a weekend getaway. In fact, now is a great time to explore Atlanta, because the W Atlanta - Perimeter 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 in an upscale neighborhood where the city's commerce, art, and business districts connect, this chic retreat boasts everything you need for a perfect mini-vacation. The WET outdoor pool is framed by tall trees and features sleek lounge chairs perfect for losing yourself in a book - or the company of a friend. A zen garden provides a tranquil sanctuary to relax and find your center amid the stresses of life. The SWEAT fitness center ensures that you'll stay fit and healthy while you're away from home. Savu restaurant is the place to go for American cuisine with a focus on local and seasonal ingredients, while there's no better place than Savu Bar to unwind with friends and plan the next day's adventures. Of course, the W Atlanta - Perimeter is just one of dozens of Starpicks properties this week, so check the list for the destination of your dreams.

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Nacho & PH.jpgSt. Regis Hotels & Resorts, in association with American Express®, the official card of St. Regis Polo, recently launched a new destination website, stregis.com/polo, celebrating its long association with this much-loved sport. The relationship between St. Regis Hotels & Resorts and the sport of polo began in 1904, when John Jacob Astor IV and his family would attend matches on Governors Island, a small island off the coast of Manhattan. Polo players and spectators alike would often stay at Astor's new St. Regis Hotel creating a bond with the sport that has endured for more than a century. Today that bond is stronger than ever, with events throughout the year that exemplify the very best of the polo world.

This year Nacho Figueras,the world's most recognized polo player, was appointed the first ever St. Regis Connoisseur, offering guests access to some of the greatest polo matches and experiences in the world. Figueras kept some esteemed company at the Veuve Clicquot Polo Classic on Governors Island this spring as his Black Watch team competed against HRH Prince Henry of Wales and Team Sentebale. On June 25th, The St. Regis New York hosted a gala charity event to raise money for Sentebale, the prince's charity, benefiting the over 400,000 orphans living in Lesotho, Africa. Prince Harry was in attendance for this event where Chef de cuisine Didier Elena from Alain Ducasse's Adour at The St. Regis New York crafted a four-course menu degustation for the evening.

St. Regis sponsors major polo matches around the world including the third annual St. Regis International Cup, which kicked off the UK polo season at Cowdray Park, the home of British Polo on May 22nd. There, VIP guests were treated to world-class polo and signature St. Regis afternoon tea. Earlier this summer, The St. Regis Singapore participated in the Audemars Piguet International Tournament, an annual tradition of the Singapore Polo Club as the official hotel sponsor. In Singapore, Nacho Figueras hosted a special VIP dinner, where he met SPG Moments winners, who attended a weekend of thrilling matches.

Visit stregis.com/polo today to learn about upcoming events in the world of polo, such as the Tortugas Open in Argentina or the Royal Salute Polo Gold Cup in China.

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Starwood Preferred Guests can now stay updated on the latest travel trends. A core group of experts – including Starwood employees and SPG members – provide updates on unique and noteworthy travel experiences around the world. Get a behind-the-scenes look at exciting Starwood travel destinations and receive daily articles using TheLobby.com widget for your blog, desktop or web page.
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