No city gets the 4th of July better than New York! If you’re lucky enough to be spending Independence Day in the Big Apple, you’re in for a real treat. And, if you happen to be visiting New York City during Independence Day, we’ve listed some of New York City’s best hotels at the bottom of the article.

Macy’s 2009 July 4th fireworks:

This year, catch Macy’s July 4th Fireworks over the Hudson River. The show kicks off at 9:20 p.m. and runs for 26 minutes. The fireworks will be launched from barges on the river between 24th and 50th Streets.

The best views of New York City’s July 4th fireworks will be from Manhattan’s West Side between 23rd and 59th streets, as well as from New Jersey’s waterfront.

Great places to view New York’s fireworks include:
West Side Highway and area
Dewitt Clinton Park
Pier 54 and Pier 84
Side streets between 11th and 12th Avenues

Free Today Show and Good Morning America Concerts:

The Today Show and Good Morning America are each sponsoring a free summer concert series featuring big musicians in New York this summer. Luckily, some of the concerts take place over the July 4th weekend! Unluckily, the concerts start at 7 a.m. (but hey…they are free).

On Friday, July 3, you can see Rob Thomas at an ungodly 7 a.m. free concert at the Rockefeller Center (between 49th and 50th Streets near 5th Avenue).

You can also see Brad Paisley for free at an equally early 7 a.m. free concert in Rumsey Playfield in Central Park (near the park entrance at Fifth Avenue and East 69th Street).

Broadway Shows on July 4th in New York:

If you’re a big fan of Broadway Shows, you will want to be in New York this weekend. You can see some of Broadways best plays for just $59! Participating plays include Avenue Q, In the Heights, 9 to 5, MaryStuart, Shrek, The Normal Conquests, The 39 Steps, Waiting for Godot and August: Osage County.

Hotels in New York:

If you’re a visitor to New York City, you’ll want to make the most of your Independence Day weekend. We recommend staying right down town at one of the best hotels in New York:

Jumeirah Essex House
The Standard, New York
Soho House New York
60 Thompson

If you are in San Diego this July 4th beware, the beaches will be packed by day for the annual Big Bay Boom! Fireworks display that starts at 9 p.m. in the Port of San Diego.

Known as the “Big Kahuna” of fireworks displays, nearly 4 million people come out to watch this event.

You can already guess getting to it will be difficult.

You might consider piling folks into the car or taking public transportation. The Port will be working with Old Town Trolley to provide free shuttle service for Shelter Island and Harbor Island viewing.

For the best views from boat or land, make sure to get to Shelter Island, Harbor Island or the North Embarcadero.

If your in town and can’t seem to get down to where the action  is, don’t fret, you can rest in a great San Diego luxury hotel and watch it on TV via Fox 5 HD or Cox 4 HD:

The Keating Hotel
Ivy Hotel

San Antonio is the most visited city in Texas and this Independence Day is sure to be a great celebration.

For Crafty visitors this weekend make sure to check out San Antonio’s July 4th Arts & Crafts show located along the banks of the San Antonio River. Featuring local and regional artists, Craftsmen and jewelers, this is a perfect stop for a great memento.

Families are invited to the city’s free celebration with a day of fun-filled games, food and musical entertainment at Woodlawn Lake Park. Everyone is encouraged to show their pride for the national holiday by dressing up in their finest patriotic costumes and participate in the popular Salute to the Red, White and Blue Parade that will kick off at 11am.

The highlight of the festivities will be the H-E-B Fireworks Extravaganza, the annual fireworks display starting at 9 p.m. at Woodlawn Lake Park.  Don’t miss out.

If you are visiting the city make sure to book your stay at one of the best hotels in San Antonio:
The Westin River Walk
Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort and Spa

Life doesn’t get faster paced or more exciting than in New York. And, being so close to the Hamptons, the Catskills, vineyards, etc., weekend escapes are all the rage. One problem, of course: if you go away for the weekend, you have to leave early on Sunday! Well…not if you stay at the Plaza Hotel.

So you’re looking for the perfect weekend escape…but have realized that by the time you actually “escape” you’ll have to return home. Nothing dampens the spirit more than a weekend getaway cut short.

The Plaza New York has announced an innovative package that we think is perfect for beating the Sunday Blues. Rather than returning home on Sunday afternoon, cutting a weekend getaway short, extend your trip with The Plaza’s “Sunday Nights Sleepover” package.

The package includes:
-A complimentary room upgrade (based on availability when you’re checking in)
-A three course prix fix dinner for two at The Oak Room
-A complimentary full-American breakfast for two in The Champagne Bar on Monday morning.

Rates from $505 USD per night, based on double occupancy.

Huge rooms, posh décor and white-glove service are what you’ll get at the Plaza, arguably one of the best hotels in New York City . We love the design, location and restaurants (and so will you).

You’ll still get that escape without going so far that you have to return early.

What a novel concept!

Found in scenic Lake Como, Villa d’Este just learned that Forbes Traveler has ranked it as the world’s best hotel! Perfect for a romantic getaway, a golf vacation, foodies and people who just love staying in historical buildings, this hotel in Italy truly earns its reputation.

People search long and hard for the world’s best hotels to stay at. Thankfully, the editors of Forbes Traveler have made our jobs a whole lot easier by conducting a poll to settle it once and for all!

The Forbes Traveler team asked their top travel connoisseurs (including celebrities, travel industry executives, journalists and business leaders) to rate nearly 800 of the best hotels in the world and, of course, to dub the cream of the crop the world’s best hotel.

Each of these affluent travellers had stayed in at least 20 five-star hotels during the past year.

Using criterion such as room quality, service, decor and cuisine, we’re so proud to learn that Italy’s Villa d’Este stood out among the crowd, coming in at the top of the list.

The Grand Hotel Villa d’Este is located on the western shore of Italy’s Lake Como. Surrounded by 25 acres of gardens, the hotel has 152 rooms housed in two equally beautiful buildings, the Cardinal Building (1568) and the Queen’s Pavillion (1861).

In addition, two private villas are available for short-term tenancies, Villa Malakoff (3200sf) and Villa Cima (7000sf).

We know guests will love this hotel’s gorgeous setting, delicious cuisine (prepared by the King of Risotto himself, Executive Chef Luciano Parolari) and the wide array of outdoor facilities either on the grounds or nearby. Think about having six 18-hole golf courses at your fingertips!

Now that’s a hotel.

Canada Day in Montreal

This Canada Day Montreal is celebrating Celafete 2009. With over 200 free activities for people of all ages and interests at the quays of the Old Port there’s no excuse not to get involved! If you are celebrating with kids they will be sure to enjoy multiple inflatable bounce rides and get inspired by circus performers from Circus Magic and the Floating Theater. Food lovers will be able to feast on a day long food fair featuring local culinary talents.

If you are a big kid at heart make sure to attend Dansons Sur les Quais an open air disco starting at 9 p.m. Just like any disco you won’t be short on laser beams, 3-D projections, low level fireworks and live performances on two stages. This is celebrating in true Montreal style. And after your dancing feet have had a good work out don’t forget to check out the final fireworks show down at le Vieux Port at 11 p.m.!

For a great end to a great day, make sure to book your stay at one Montreal’s best hotels for a great night sleep:

Opus Hotel Montreal
W Montreal
Sofitel Montreal Golden Mile

Canada Day in Quebec City

Known as the jewel of French Canada, Quebec City is simply like no other place in North America!

This year, Canada Day is taking place during Quebec City’s tenth annual Festival Grand Rier de Quebec comedy festival. With almost 500,000 visitors coming out to the festival during its 26 day run, you will be guaranteed to be laughing till you cry.

If comedy doesn’t suite your fancy make sure to check out the free Canada Day show at Place Georges V starting at 7 p.m., featuring musical artists such as Long distances, Guns Roses, Jonathan Roy and Finger Eleven. This show will end with a bang displaying the traditional celebratory fireworks show.

If you are in the city for a visit make sure to book your stay at one of these amazing hotels in Quebec City, which will be the perfect end to the perfect day.

Auberge Saint-Antoine
Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac
Hotel Dominion 1912

Canada Day in Banff :

Right in the middle of Canada’s gorgeous Rocky Mountains, you won’t want to miss the Canada Day festivities in Banff.

Festivities kick off at Canada Place with the annual Parks Canada Pancake Breakfast (9 a.m. to 11 a.m.).

After breakfast, head to Banff’s Central Park where you can enjoy the majestic scenery and entertainment (on the Louis Trono Gazebo and Stampede stages). The 2009 Parade runs along Banff Avenue (starting at 5 p.m.) and afterwards, Canada Day enthusiasts can head back to Central Park to listen to some live music and view the spectacular fireworks show, starting at 11 p.m.

If you’re just visiting during Canada Day, the following is a list of some of Banff’s Best Hotels:

The Rimrock Resort Hotel
The Fairmont Banff Springs

Canada Day in Edmonton :

There’s no shortage of Canada Day celebrations in Edmonton this year. From a free pool party and BBQ at Borden Park (1 p.m. to 6 p.m. at 112 Avenue and 73 Street), to the Silly Summer Parade (starting at noon and running until 2 p.m. at 7730-106 Street), you can see two grand fireworks displays at night!

Fireworks start at both Mill Woods Park (66 Street and 23 Avenue) and Kinsmen Park at 11 p.m. The Kinsmen Park Fireworks (known as the Canada Day Fireworks Finale), take place over the River Valley, and spectators can’t view the fireworks from the park.

Good places to view the fireworks include: Alberta Legislature Grounds, Victoria Park (River Valley Road), Ezio Farone Park (west entrance to High Level Bridge on 109 Street North), Dantzer’s Hill (below Queen Elizabeth Park), and Government House Park (Groat Road and River Valley Road).

If you’re traveling here, the following is a list of some of Edmonton’s Best Hotels:

Matrix Hotel Edmonton
The Fairmont Hotel Macdonald

Canada Day in Whistler:

Planning to head up the Sea-to-Sky Highway on or around July 1st this year? Why not stop of in Whistler to commemorate Canada’s Birthday and join the 2010 Olympic Mascots Miga, Sumi Quatchi for a day filled with fun for everyone.

Go to Whistler Village and join the “Whistler Spirit—Let’s Hear It!” parade where locals and foreigners will celebrate Whistler’s heritage and culture.  Street performers will provide entertainment; a ceremony featuring athletes, guests and the Olympic torch, will mark the opening of the Olympic Store in the core of this unique resort town.

If you are going to stop in Whistler, here are some of the finest places to relax and enjoy the scenery from:

The Fairmont Chateau Whistler
Pan Pacific Whistler Village Centre
The Westin Resort & Spa, Whistler

Canada Day in Victoria:

As the capital of BC, you bet that Victoria’s city center will be bouncing with fun and excitement to celebrate Canada and its diversity.

Music by the Japanese drumming ensemble, Uminari Taiko, Al Milner, Pacifika, and Elliot Brood will resonate from Victoria’s harbor throughout the day. Activities for adults and kids will provide ample opportunity for you to join in the celebrations.

The Canada Day Fireworks will end the night with a bang at 10.30 p.m. sharp.

Here are some of Victoria’s finest hotels, should you be visiting the area during the festivities:

Brentwood Bay Lodge & Spa
The Fairmont Empress

Canada Day in Vancouver:

If you are going to be on Canada’s West Coast join in the Canada Day celebrations happening all around Vancouver.

Canada Place is celebrating Canada’s birthday with tunes from 54-40, Destino Tenors and Dal Richards, as well as an extreme air show put on by Canadian Forces. Enjoy all the action while snacking on free samples of traditional maple taffy, and letting the kids run wild at the interactive zone open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., followed by the fireworks.

More in to high fashion? Then, we suggest you partake in the celebrations on Robson Street. The main stage is going to feature performances by the funk band Soulstream and the Brazilian ensemble Ache Brasil; the whole day will be filled with entertainment and a chance to win prizes and free giveaways.

Alternatively, you can go to Granville Island where the festivities are going to commence with the Truly Canadian Pancake Breakfast from 7 to11 a.m. which will be followed by the yearly Canada Day Carnival and a free Jazz concert.

At sundown, experience the fireworks close-up from Coal Harbour or Canada Place.

If you’re a visitor to Vancouver during Canada Day, we recommend that you stay at The Shangri-La Hotel Vancouver— ‘the’ place to be for the full Canada Day experience. The Shangri-la Hotel is only a hop, skip and a jump to Canada Place, which makes it an ideal location out-of-towners who are keen to stay close to the festivities.

Other great Vancouver hotels include:

The Sutton Place Hotel Vancouver
Opus Hotel Vancouver

We here at Kiwi Collection just learned that July 1, 2009 festivities in Toronto are canceled due to the municipal workers strike!

Apparently, without the unionized workers around, the show can’t go on. So, festivals, fireworks at Ashbridge’s Bay and more are canceled.

The situation stinks – literally (garbage hasn’t been picked up for days). But, if you’re visiting Toronto or live in the big smoke, all is not a waste. We don’t like missing an opportunity to party, and we figure you don’t either.

You can still have a great day by treating you and your sweetheart to a night at one of the city’s greatest hotels. Think about having a stench-free Canada Day at one of our favourites:

The Park Hyatt Toronto
The Hazelton
Hotel Le Germain

You can search for other hotels in Toronto too.

And, if you really, really want to see fireworks, you can always head south to see what’s going on over the weekend in the states for Independence Day, or drive a few hours to partake in the festivities for Canada Day in Montreal.

With CNN reporting that Americans are likely to travel less over the July 4^th long weekend due to the economy, staying close to home is more important this year than ever before. But that doesn’t mean that you still can’t “get away” from home.

We think a fun long weekend at a great hotel in your home town might be a solution to the economic woes stunting your plans for the long weekend. We’ve profiled three of our favorite hotels below – but you can find one in your area by visiting our page about the best hotels in the United States.

Jumeirah Essex House:

This landmark in New York City is the perfect location to celebrate Independence Day!

Jumeirah Essex House is right across from Central Park.

Guests can enjoy complimentary bicycles and picnic baskets, perfect for an elegant picnic lunch and tour of the park. This upscale area of Manhattan is the perfect spot to enjoy your Independence Day getaway.

The Standard New York:

The perfect place to see and be seen, the Standard New York is located in Manhattan’s trendy Meatpacking District.

At the Standard, you’ll have unmatched views of the Hudson River – perfect for getting a prime seat for Macy’s Fourth of July Fireworks!

In celebration of the 400th anniversary of Henry Hudson exploring the Hudson River, this world famous fireworks display is happening over the Hudson River this year instead of the East River. What a treat!

Trump International Hotel and Tower Chicago:

Fireworks for Independence Day actually begin on July 3rd in Chicago, so be sure to make your weekend a long one at the Trump International Hotel and Tower Chicago.

This trendy hotel boasts stunning views of the city through floor-to-ceiling windows, a fantastic spa and great restaurant.

You’ll thoroughly enjoy the Taste of Chicago, fireworks and other July 4th festivities happening all weekend in the Windy City from the Trump!

Read our review of the Trump in Chicago right here on the Jetsetter.

Canada is celebrating its 142nd birthday this Wednesday. A joyous day full of parades, barbecues, and, of course, fireworks, most Canadians (and visitors to this great northern country) will get their fill of spectacular July 1st celebrations. Below, we’ve listed all of the details for major Canada Day fireworks across the country, as well as the best Canadian hotels to stay at if you happen to be visiting during the festivities.

Canada Day in Vancouver:

If you are going to be on Canada’s West Coast join in the Canada Day celebrations happening all around Vancouver.

Canada Place is celebrating Canada’s birthday with tunes from 54-40, Destino Tenors and Dal Richards, as well as an extreme air show put on by Canadian Forces. Enjoy all the action while snacking on free samples of traditional maple taffy, and letting the kids run wild at the interactive zone open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., followed by the fireworks.

More in to high fashion? Then, we suggest you partake in the celebrations on Robson Street. The main stage is going to feature performances by the funk band Soulstream and the Brazilian ensemble Ache Brasil; the whole day will be filled with entertainment and a chance to win prizes and free giveaways.

Alternatively, you can go to Granville Island where the festivities are going to commence with the Truly Canadian Pancake Breakfast from 7 to11 a.m. which will be followed by the yearly Canada Day Carnival and a free Jazz concert.

At sundown, experience the fireworks close-up from Coal Harbour or Canada Place.

If you’re a visitor to Vancouver during Canada Day, we recommend that you stay at The Shangri-La Hotel Vancouver— ‘the’ place to be for the full Canada Day experience. The Shangri-la Hotel is only a hop, skip and a jump to Canada Place, which makes it an ideal location out-of-towners who are keen to stay close to the festivities.

Other great Vancouver hotels include:

The Sutton Place Hotel Vancouver
Opus Hotel Vancouver

Canada Day in Victoria:

As the capital of BC, you bet that Victoria’s city center will be bouncing with fun and excitement to celebrate Canada and its diversity.

Music by the Japanese drumming ensemble, Uminari Taiko, Al Milner, Pacifika, and Elliot Brood will resonate from Victoria’s harbor throughout the day. Activities for adults and kids will provide ample opportunity for you to join in the celebrations.

The Canada Day Fireworks will end the night with a bang at 10.30 p.m. sharp.

Here are some of Victoria’s finest hotels, should you be visiting the area during the festivities:

Brentwood Bay Lodge & Spa
The Fairmont Empress

Canada Day in Whistler:

Planning to head up the Sea-to-Sky Highway on or around July 1st this year? Why not stop of in Whistler to commemorate Canada’s Birthday and join the 2010 Olympic Mascots Miga, Sumi Quatchi for a day filled with fun for everyone.

Go to Whistler Village and join the “Whistler Spirit—Let’s Hear It!” parade where locals and foreigners will celebrate Whistler’s heritage and culture.  Street performers will provide entertainment; a ceremony featuring athletes, guests and the Olympic torch, will mark the opening of the Olympic Store in the core of this unique resort town.

If you are going to stop in Whistler, here are some of the finest places to relax and enjoy the scenery from:

The Fairmont Chateau Whistler
Pan Pacific Whistler Village Centre
The Westin Resort & Spa, Whistler

Canada Day in Edmonton:

There’s no shortage of Canada Day celebrations in Edmonton this year. From a free pool party and BBQ at Borden Park (1 p.m. to 6 p.m. at 112 Avenue and 73 Street), to the Silly Summer Parade (starting at noon and running until 2 p.m. at 7730-106 Street), you can see two grand fireworks displays at night!

Fireworks start at both Mill Woods Park (66 Street and 23 Avenue) and Kinsmen Park at 11 p.m. The Kinsmen Park Fireworks (known as the Canada Day Fireworks Finale), take place over the River Valley, and spectators can’t view the fireworks from the park.

Good places to view the fireworks include: Alberta Legislature Grounds, Victoria Park (River Valley Road), Ezio Farone Park (west entrance to High Level Bridge on 109 Street North), Dantzer’s Hill (below Queen Elizabeth Park), and Government House Park (Groat Road and River Valley Road).

If you’re traveling here, the following is a list of some of Edmonton’s Best Hotels:
Matrix Hotel Edmonton
The Fairmont Hotel Macdonald

Canada Day in Banff:

Right in the middle of Canada’s gorgeous Rocky Mountains, you won’t want to miss the Canada Day festivities in Banff.

Festivities kick off at Canada Place with the annual Parks Canada Pancake Breakfast (9 a.m. to 11 a.m.).

After breakfast, head to Banff’s Central Park where you can enjoy the majestic scenery and entertainment (on the Louis Trono Gazebo and Stampede stages). The 2009 Parade runs along Banff Avenue (starting at 5 p.m.) and afterwards, Canada Day enthusiasts can head back to Central Park to listen to some live music and view the spectacular fireworks show, starting at 11 p.m.

If you’re just visiting during Canada Day, the following is a list of some of Banff’s Best Hotels:
The Rimrock Resort Hotel
The Fairmont Banff Springs

Canada Day in Toronto:

Toronto is Canada’s hub and one of the most interesting and exciting cities in the country to visit (both for work and for pleasure). If you’re in to big, outdoor festivals, this is the place to be on Canada Day!

This Canada Day, Toronto is celebrating at Mel Lastman Square (which is at North York Boulevard and Yonge Streets, right next to the North York Subway Station).

Come out to see great musicians strut their stuff at around 8 p.m. (The Abrams Brothers and Juno-nominated NQ Arbuckle), and see the fantastic fireworks display at 10:15 p.m.!

If you’re visiting during Canada Day, here’s a list of some of Toronto’s best hotels:
Park Hyatt Toronto
The Hazelton
Hotel Le Germain

Canada Day in Quebec City:

Known as the jewel of French Canada, Quebec City is simply like no other place in North America!

This year, Canada Day is taking place during Quebec City’s tenth annual Festival Grand Rier de Quebec comedy festival. With almost 500,000 visitors coming out to the festival during its 26 day run, you will be guaranteed to be laughing till you cry.

If comedy doesn’t suite your fancy make sure to check out the free Canada Day show at Place Georges V starting at 7 p.m., featuring musical artists such as Long distances, Guns Roses, Jonathan Roy and Finger Eleven. This show will end with a bang displaying the traditional celebratory fireworks show.

If you are in the city for a visit make sure to book your stay at one of these amazing hotels in Quebec City, which will be the perfect end to the perfect day.

Auberge Saint-Antoine
Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac
Hotel Dominion 1912

Canada Day in Montreal:

This Canada Day Montreal is celebrating Celafete 2009. With over 200 free activities for people of all ages and interests at the quays of the Old Port there’s no excuse not to get involved! If you are celebrating with kids they will be sure to enjoy multiple inflatable bounce rides and get inspired by circus performers from Circus Magic and the Floating Theater. Food lovers will be able to feast on a day long food fair featuring local culinary talents.

If you are a big kid at heart make sure to attend Dansons Sur les Quais an open air disco starting at 9 p.m. Just like any disco you won’t be short on laser beams, 3-D projections, low level fireworks and live performances on two stages. This is celebrating in true Montreal style. And after your dancing feet have had a good work out don’t forget to check out the final fireworks show down at le Viex Port at 11 p.m.!

For a great end to a great day, make sure to book your stay at one Montreal’s best hotels for a great night sleep:

Opus Hotel Montreal
W Montreal
Sofitel Montreal Golden Mile