Sweet Deal: Top Rated 4-Star Orlando Resort from $87/night

Get This Deal: 4-Star Rosen Shingle Creek Resort from $87/night

Location… Location… Location:
Orlando is the place to be for all types of travelers. In the heart of the “Sunshine State” this destination is gearing up for some sizzling summer fun! All four theme parks are coming alive with fireworks, concerts, parades and even a brand new theme park with tons of thrills to experience.

The hotel: The Rosen Shingle Creek is nestled on a 230-acre site along Shingle Creek just off Universal Boulevard, just 10 minutes away from the Orlando International Airport. This ideal location is just a short distance to a variety of Orlando’s best attractions/theme parks, restaurants, shopping and entertainment venues.

The 1,500 guest rooms offer luxurious first-class settings that capture the hotel environment. Capitalizing on Rosen Shingle Creek’s elevation, every single room offers a stunning view of the golf course and the area’s incomparable setting —from the perfectly manicured fairways and greens to the picturesque creek, magnificent cypress trees, and lush landscape. For vacationers or meeting guests, it’s hard to imagine a better way to start the day than with the view from these rooms.

Right now, 1800HOTELS has an exclusive deal with rates as low as $87 per night through August.

Stars, Stripes and Savings: From Traditional July 4th Getaways to Unique Celebrations

Celebrate Independence Day at some of America’s most historic and patriotic destinations! On July 4^th, there will be fireworks displayed across the country whether it is on a pier, in the downtown area of your state or in the backyard of your homes (if the law permits). Aside from taking pride in the red, white and blue with the booming of fireworks and a hot dog or hamburger (whichever you prefer) at hand – some states have their own unique celebrations.

Boston Chowderfest
During the Boston Chowderfest, which takes place at the beautiful Harborfest, approximately 12,000 participants chow down to select the best chowder from Boston-area restaurants. The samples and style of chowder can vary from thin and soupy with minced clams, to hearty, thick and creamy chowder with potatoes. If you love chowder then this is a must-see event for you this Fourth of July.

Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest (Brooklyn, New York)
Every year, Coney Island attracts many people in the New York summer heat to witness the annual Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest. Marking its 95th year, contestants chomp down hot dog after hot dog in hopes of getting the famous Nathan’s Mustard Belt along with cash prizes. Also, when visiting Coney Island check out the attractions and historical sites in the great Brooklyn area.

Gettysburg Civil War Re-enactment
Marking its 147th re-enactment this year, the Gettysburg Civil War re-enactment takes place in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. If you enjoy a little time travel and are a history buff, be sure to check out the re-enactment among other sites in Pennsylvania such as the iconic symbol of freedom, the Liberty Bell.

Pig War Picnic
Just off the coast of Washington State lie the San Juan Islands. Visit the Fourth of July Beach along Griffin Bay and don’t miss the annual Pig War Picnic, named for the so-called “Pig War” waged on the island between Brits and Americans in 1859. The picnic takes place on nearby Price Street, following the Fourth of July parade, and serves up equal parts burgers and hot dogs with good old-fashioned fun. Also, marvel at the gorgeous nature San Juan has to offer such as watching a Bald Eagle fly overhead, which is sure to put you into a stars-and-stripe state of mind.

1800HOTELS offers up to 60% OFF on hotels in New York, Boston, Chicago, Orlando and Las Vegas for your July 4th Weekend Getaway!

Sweet Deal: 4-Star Hotel Palomar Chicago from $129/night – Save $100 in July

Don’t miss 1800HOTELS’ exclusive July Special on this popular Kimpton Hotel in the Windy City:

The hotel: Ranked #2 of 165 hotels in Chicago on Tripadvisor, the 4-Star Hotel Palomar Chicago is located in the dynamic River North neighborhood, Chicago’s cultural hub. With 261 stylish guest rooms and suites, your stay at the Palomar puts you in the heart of Chicago’s art scene and offers unparalleled Kimpton Hotel hospitality that embraces and reflects its surrounding original artwork with sophistication. This luxurious boutique hotel also features an indoor heated pool and sundeck on its 17th floor, as well as a well-equipped fitness center.

The location: Boasting Chicago’s highest concentration of restaurants, this small neighborhood has become a favorite destination for locals and tourists alike. It lies North of the Loop, west of famed Michigan Avenue and South of Chicago Avenue.

Get this deal: With rates as low as $129/night on stays of two nights or more, the 4-Star Hotel Palomar Chicago, a Kimpton Hotel, is your best hotel choice in Chicago this July.

July 4th Sweet Deal: 4-Star Renaissance Esmeralda Resort & Spa in Palm Springs, California from $67/night

The hotel: Nestled at the base of the majestic Santa Rosa Mountains this four star sanctuary in the desert, provides the perfect place to escape from your everyday life.

With all the luxurious amenities and exquisite accommodations you will find everything you need to enjoy your relaxing getaway. There is something here for everyone such as 24 hour fitness center, tennis courts, 3 signature pools with a sandy beach area for children, and Spa Esmeralda. As well as the property is surrounded by a 36 hole championship golf courses designed by the famed architect Ted Robinson.

Get this deal: Right now, 1800HOTELS has an exclusive deal on the 4-Star Renaissance Esmeralda Resort & Spa with rates as low as $67 per night on stays of three nights or more through August. You Save 60%!

Sweet Deal: Save 40% on 5-Star Palm Beach, Florida Hotel

The hotel: Ranked #1 on Tripadvisor, the 5-Star The Breakers is one of America’s legendary resort destinations. The 503-room, Italian Renaissance-style hotel resides on 56 hectares of oceanfront property. With the commitment of its original ownership and spend of $250 million over the past decade, the hotel has undertaken ongoing revitalization and enhancement of its multi-faceted amenities, the dramatic transformation of shoreline into a luxurious beachfront experience.

The resort’s timeless atmosphere has been renewed in a style of residential elegance, from its magnificent interiors to its artfully designed landscape. Highly personalized service indulges couples on a romantic getaway as much as it energizes multi-generational travelers with a family-minded philosophy. Features include an array of on-site boutiques – all wholly owned and managed by the resort – and bar areas.

Get this deal: With rates as low as $178/night, you save up to 40% at the 5-Star The Breakers Hotel in the months of June, July and August, 2010!

The location: Palm Beach was established as a resort by Henry Morrison Flagler, also famous and known as a key figure in the development of the eastern coast of Florida along the Atlantic Coast. The center of the community was established by Flagler’s two luxury resort hotels, one of which is the 5-Star The Breakers Hotel, commonly listed as one of the key places to visit while vacationing in Palm Beach. Other points of interest include Worth Avenue, Four Arts Gardens, White Hall the Flagler Museum and Mar-A-Lago.

Top Destinations to Celebrate Graduation: Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Cancun and Miami

After the long 4-year haul of cramming, achingly typing away paper after paper, staying up with endless amount of coffee and energy drinks it’s now time to kick back and relax – or start the celebration!

Las Vegas, NV
Everyone (especially the newly legal drinkers) dreams of descending over the Las Vegas strip and having the time of their lives in the infamous Sin City. What better time to do it than ending the 4-year journey of college?

If you choose to take the adventure of Vegas, stay the beautiful 4-Star Paris Hotel. This hotel is a visually stunning re-creation of Paris in the middle of Las Vegas. It is located in the central strip and features a 50-story Eiffel tower as its centerpiece.

Looking for an amazing view of the Las Vegas skyline? The 3-Star Stratosphere Hotel Casino and Tower is the place for you. Located at the Northern end of the Strip, this gorgeous hotel towers to a height of some 1,148 feet above the neon light-filled desert scape. When making your final descent into Las Vegas, this hotel remains the most striking feature along the Las Vegas strip.

Cancun, Mexico
Long strip of clubs that will satisfy your party fever, a breathtaking beach with turquoise waters to wind down on with a bucket of beers or simply a frozen Margarita – you have arrived in Cancun. In Cancun, the 4-Star Xbalamque Hotel offers beauty and convenience. Located in downtown Cancun just a few minutes away from shopping centers, craft shops, restaurants, clubs and, of course, the beautiful beach of Cancun, this hotel is right around the action and merely 20 minutes from the airport and 10 minutes from the hotel zone.

Also, the 3-Star Star Hotel Plaza Caribe lies at the center of Cancun and offers an optimal positioning to discover the archaeological excavations of the Yucatan Peninsula and other worthwhile excursions.

Miami, FL
For many graduates, South Beach is where it’s at this summer.  Club hopping and the infamous, Wet Willie’s – which one choose from many different alcoholic frozen treats and sip outside bathing in the Miami sun. If Miami is the spot for you, stay at the beautiful 5-Star Fontainebleau Miami Beach Hotel.

The hotel rises above 1,000 feet of Atlantic Ocean beach, just 2 miles from shopping on Lincoln Road and 3 miles from Miami’s South Beach. Fontainebleau is a spectacular blend of Miami’s glamorous golden era and stylish modern luxury –  with 22 oceanfront acres, 11 restaurants and nightclubs including three signature name chef restaurants, 40,000-square-foot spa, and a sophisticated poolscape with private cabanas.

Also, the 3-Star Deauville Beach Resort one of Florida’s hottest spots among travelers around the world, this hotel is located directly by the beach, only some 15 minutes by car from South Beach.

Los Angeles, CA
Last but not least, we head to the west coast to catch some rays and waves. Los Angeles has much to offer from the boardwalk of Venice Beach to parties in Hollywood and tons of places to shop. The 3-Star Wilshire Grand Hotel is ideally located in the heart of Downtown Los Angeles surrounded by shopping plazas, museums, theatres and fine restaurants, which would be the ideal place to stay to enjoy all of Los Angeles. This hotel is about a 25-minute drive from the beautiful Venice Beach boardwalk

If you’re willing to splurge in celebration of your graduation, check out the 4-Star Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel. The hotel is located across the street from Manns Chinese Theater and the Hollywood Wax Museum in the heart of Hollywood. Atop of the hotel is the Tropicana Bar, which features a garden setting, and the nightlife scene revolves around the comfortable second-story bar. Latin bands and other musicians play nightly.

So, gather all your Graduation earnings, choose your favorite destination and celebrate the success of graduating!

Sweet Deal: 4-Star Grand Beach Hotel Miami from $132/night

The hotel: Located on the ocean in spectacular Miami Beach, with every room a well appointed suite – spacious, gracious with luxurious amenities, state of the art technology and every convenience you could ask or. Once away from your suite, you discover all the comforts that make a getaway like this so appealing – the pools, exquisite dining, distractions for the mind and more.

What makes it even more attractive is that you enjoy all this luxury and comfort for far less than at any other hotel in the area. It’s all yours at the Grand Beach Hotel, the ideal choice for a vacation or business trip.

Get This Deal: Right now, 1800HOTELS has an exclusive deal on the 4-Star Grand Beach Hotel with rates as low as $132 per night on stays of two nights or more through July.

The Location: The Grand Beach Hotel is situated in the center of everything that makes Miami Beach so appealing. Every suite features panoramic vistas of the sparkling Atlantic ocean or the sun-capped bay, with over 200 feet of welcoming oceanfront white sand beaches stretching into the distance.

The Grand Beach Hotel is on the doorstep of South Beach – a playground for the adventurous and world renowned destination for shopping, recreation, fine dining and entertainment, day or night. Golf, the Everglades and much more are close at hand. In fact, no other hotel in the area offers so much at such an affordable price. The difference is made all the more remarkable the moment you open the door to your suite.

Don’t miss this exclusive summer rate on one of Miami’s top hotels, that is ranked #11 in Miami hotels by TripAdvisor!

Twitter Trivia Contest Update: And the Winner is …

This past weekend we launched our very first Twitter Trivia Contest: NYC Hotel Edition. Thanks to all the twitter folks who participated and followed my tweets as I roamed the streets of the Big Apple.

Foursquare was great fun, allowing me to check-in to various locations in New York as it auto-detected my location on my cellular phone with their easy to use application. Simply an amazing feature! The  best part of all is that it automatically tweeted my location and check-ins on to twitter that provided clues to all the folks on twitter who were following this contest! Gotta love Social Media!

Now to the winner of this short but sweet Twitter Trivia Contest: Congratulations to @dollyflake for guessing the correct hotel name where this lobby picture was taken! You are the winner and will receive a $20 hotel gift card for your next booking on 1800hotels.com.

This picture was in fact taken at the ever popular 4-Star Marriott Marquis located in the heart of Times Square – a hotel I’d recommend to anyone wishing to stay in the hustle and bustle of this wonderful city.

In case you missed this contest – not to worry! Stay tuned for more fun trivia and promotional contests for your chance to win hotel gift cards and more!

Sweet Deal: Radisson Hotel Boston from $129/night, Save Up to $200 This Summer

Stay at the top-selling Radisson Hotel Boston and enjoy the best that the Theater District and Back Bay areas have to offer. You’ll be mere blocks from Park Square, Boston Commons, Newbury Street shopping and dining, and minutes from downtown and the Charles River.

The Hotel: With an indoor heated pool and a sundeck, a fitness center and two on-site restaurants, the Radisson Hotel Boston is the perfect home base for your urban adventure.

Get This Deal: Right now, 1800HOTELS has an exclusive deal with rates as low as $129 per night on stays of two nights or more through July. Book today and save up to $200 off regular seasonal rates – including July 4th weekend.

Don’t miss this exclusive summer rate on one of Boston’s top hotels that boasts a #7 ranking on Tripadvisor!

New Feature Hotel and Deal: Monaco Baltimore, a Kimpton Hotel

The 4-Star luxury boutique hotel line, also known as Kimpton Hotels has opened a new hotel in downtown Baltimore, Maryland. The 4-Star Monaco Baltimore a Kimpton Hotel features 202 beautifully appointed guestrooms and suites, as well as a three story lobby. Situated right in the center of downtown Baltimore, once the headquarters of the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad. The hotel boasts a unique design with Tiffany stained glass, marble floors, spacious rooms and splendid original staircases – blending in with this vibrant, historic city.

Blow off some steam at the B&O Railroad Museum, the birthplace of American railroading or get up close and personal with marine life at the National Aquarium Baltimore! Baltimore is packed with fun-filled ways to discover the past – on land and water. The Maryland Zoo in Baltimore will host its annual Brew at the Zoo and Wine, Too! Food and beverage are coupled with fun and wildlife. Tickets ($45 for non-members, $30 for zoo members) are required for this event and include unlimited beer and wine tastings, a commemorative tasting glass and 3 live bands per day.

Staying at the 4-Star Monaco Baltimore a Kimpton Hotel puts you in the heart of downtown, four blocks from the Inner Harbor Waterfront area three blocks from the Baltimore Convention Center, near National Aquarium in Baltimore, Harborplace, Camden Yards and the University of Maryland, Baltimore. And if you like to travel with your furry loved ones, the Kimpton Hotels are famous for their pet friendliness, as they accept any number of pets without size or weight restrictions and for no extra charge.

Book Your Stay at the 4-Star Monaco Baltimore, a Kimpton Hotel Now! Rates as low as $149/night

[photo source: http://www.kimptonhotels.com/index.aspx%5D