More and more, people are deciding to make environmentally conscious choices when traveling. This includes how they travel and where they stay when they do.

Recently, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) released its annual 100% Green Power Purchaser list which represents organizations that buy enough alternative power to meet 100% of their entire electricity use.

Many hotels made that list and the one that stands out the most is the  Talbott Hotel Chicago which happens to  be one of the best green luxury hotels in the city of Chicago.

Green Seal is a Washington DC based non-profit that provides environmental certification science based standards. What’s different about the Green seal’s standard-setting process is that it works as a collaborative process making its rules fairer and allows for complete transparency gathering its input from industry, government, academia and the public.

The Talbott Hotel has a commitment to sustainability without compromise and assures their guests that their stay will have a minimum impact on the environment. Talbott met the Green Seal approval by a number of following measures:

-Offsetting 100% of its electricity with the use of wind power and the purchasing of wind energy credits.

-An extensive recycling program using only recyclable consumer paper products and biodegradable non-phosphate supplies. Also any unused soaps and shampoos are donated to charity which recycles them for the needy.

-The use of energy efficient equipment from lighting to heating as well as water conserving fixtures

-An optional “eco-mode” for guest rooms which is a simple one touch button that wirelessly alerts the staff that the guest has chosen to have the bed and bath linens replaced every other day and also allows the room temperature to adjust within eight degrees while guests are out of the room.

Not only does the Talbott Hotel Chicago offer its guests uncompromised luxury with spacious rooms, a great location close to a barrage of museums and iconic sites, and a delicious authentic Italian bistro, but gives its guests piece of mind knowing that they go above and beyond the average luxury hotel.

Each year on March 17 one of the biggest celebrations of a Catholic Saint occurs; St. Patrick’s Day.

People from around the world will be celebrating with the Irish, wearing green, sporting shamrocks, singing folk songs, kissing the blarney stone and of course having a pint…err many pints of Guinness!

The best place to be on St. Patrick’s Day is an Irish Pub, where fiddles will be in full force and the beer will be flowing. And what could be better than a trip to Ireland for the big day? Start packing your bags because we’ve got some of the best hotels in the country for you to stay at.

The Westbury Hotel:
Come visit the Westbury Hotel in Dublin’s city center where the city will be celebrating all week during St. Patrick ’s Day with comedy, cultural, music, film and family events. The St. Patrick’s Day parade is only a short stroll away from the hotel making this the perfect spot to get a little Irish. And for the event the Westbury is offering a “Stay Irish” package which includes an overnight stay, breakfast at their restaurant Wilde, dinner for two at their Café Novo and the best part of all, two pints of Guinness in The Marble Bar. I’ll say cheers to that!

Adare Manor Hotel & Golf Resort:
Steeped in the mythical history of an ancient Irish manor is the Adar Manor Hotel & Golf Resort. Surrounded by beautiful gardens, the River Maigue and lush greenery, this is truly Ireland at its best. And as a special St. Patrick’s Day treat why not indulge in their Spring Gourmet Midweek package that includes a two night accommodation in the Manor house, a full delicious Irish breakfast and the best part; an Eight Course Tasting Menu for two one evening in their Oakroom Restaurant. This package also includes a complimentary daily guest activity for you to participate in such as historical tours of the area or wine tastings.

Inchydoney Island Lodge & Spa:
Come and experience the beauty of the Irish coast. The Inchydoney Island Lodge & Spa sits alone along a stretch of land with undisturbed views of the ocean, and just outside the colorful town of Clonakilty. This is the place to be to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in utter luxury. Art lovers will enjoy the Inchydoney as they feature a number of annual exhibitions with an emphasis on local Irish art. And if you are looking for adventure, this place is a haven for those who love to surf, and those wanting to learn.

If you can’t make the trip to Ireland here are couple of your next best alternatives to having a fun filled St. Patrick’s Day:

Visit Boston and the Mandarin Oriental Boston:
The city of Boston is home the largest Irish-American population in the United States and that being said you can be sure that the St. Patrick’s Day festivities will be in full swing here. If this is your first visit to Boston, The Mandarin Oriental Boston is your perfect home base for discovering the city’s great culture, shopping and history. Be sure to visit South Boston known for its Irish neighborhoods that continue to keep its Irish heritage alive. And don’t miss out on the St. Patrick’s Day Parade starting at 1pm on Sunday March 14th.

Visit Chicago and the Allerton Hotel Chicago:
Probably one of the most exciting things about how this city celebrates St. Patrick’s Day is that their Chicago River is dyed green each year as a part of the celebration. And with the Allerton Hotel Chicago being only a few blocks away this is a sight to be seen. Located right in the heart of downtown on Michigan Avenue’s Magnificent Mile this is a great spot to bring the whole family. And with their Family Fun Package, you will get an overnight accommodation for four, a $50 gift card for the Disney Store close by, a Gino’s East Priority Pass letting you enjoy some of Chicago’s famous pizza and breakfast for four in their M Avenue restaurant.

If you’re planning a romantic escape to the windy city, you may be interested to learn that Sofitel Chicago Water Tower was just voted “Chicago’s Sexiest Hotel” in a Victoria Secret poll.

It won for the hotel category of a poll that covered everything from restaurants to people to neighbourhoods – all things Chicago!

So what makes Sofitel Chicago Water Tower so hot?

“It’s likely due to the hotel’s structure with its eye-catching curves, sexy French accents spoken by many employees, stylish bar and international jet setters coming and going that add to the allure,” said Lisa Taylor, Public Relations and Marketing Manager for the hotel.

Check out some photos – it’s not hard to see why this Chicago hotel got the local vote.

Who doesn’t love the irresistible taste of chocolate? From now till until January 31, 2010, Sofitel Luxury Hotels invites chocolate-loving travelers to indulge with their “I Love Chocolate” package at their various hotels around the world.

Whether you love dark, white or milk chocolate, the “I Love Chocolate” package has you covered with a chocolate infused stay complete with mouth watering confectioneries, delicious hot beverages and gourmet cookies to sweeten your visit. And every true chocolate lover knows this tasty delight is a luscious aphrodisiac making this package perfect for a romantic getaway.

What the “I Love Chocolate” package includes:

-Stay two nights and get the third night free!
-A complimentary delicious breakfast served in the restaurant each morning
-An “all-chocolate afternoon tea” including hot chocolate, yummy pastries and other delicacies
-Late checkout of 2pm (based on availability)

To indulge in this fabulous package book your stay at any of these great participating Sofitel Luxury Hotels:

Sofitel Chicago Water Tower:
Only minutes away from Chicago’s famous Magnificent Mile, Navy Pier, the Museum of Contemporary Art and fabulous upscale boutiques, the Sofitel Chicago Water Tower is a perfect luxury getaway in the heart of downtown.

Designed by the French architect Jean-Paul Viguire, this hotel is a 32-floor prism of glass full of rich architectural legacy and is a welcomed addition to the city skyline.  Every room and suite embraces beautiful, sleek, modern design while offering luxurious comfort and fabulous city views, perfect for enjoying hot chocolate in bed.

Sofitel Buenos Aires:
The Sofitel Buenos Aires sits in the epicenter of Argentinean culture on the charming Arroyo Street, surrounded by enchanting tree-lined sidewalks. This area is perfect for discovering local art galleries and antique shops along with all the rest that the city has to offer.

This carefully restored landmark building, constructed in 1929, resembles a lighthouse casting light over the city with interiors blending French and Art Deco elegance courtesy of renowned interior designer Pierre-Yves Rochon. All rooms are spacious with magnificent Botticino bathrooms, complemented by exclusive Jean Marie Farina toiletries from the Roger and Gallet luxury line.

Sofitel Cartagena Santa Clara:
Once a seventeenth century convent, the Sofitel Cartagena Santa Clara is unspoiled haven in the Caribbean’s coastal city of Cartagena, Colombia. Hotel rooms are houses in two different atmospheres: colonial and republican each offering fabulous views of either the old city, Caribbean Sea or their beautiful internal gardens.

Sofitel Montreal Golden Mile:
Considered one of the best downtown Montreal hotels, the Sofitel Montreal Golden Mile is set in the heart of the historic Golden Mile Square and near the city’s best know galleries and boutiques. Each room features original art work and floor to ceiling windows allowing for an abundance of light and breathtaking downtown views.

Sofitel Dalat Palace:
Set on a private five-hectare park, the lakeside Sofitel Dalat Palace is a beautiful classic hotel in the heart of Dalat, Vietnam. It is close to shops, tennis courts and amazing historic monuments. Every room has recently been renovated with only the best in luxury amenities including wireless internet, satellite television and either fireplace and/or balcony, depending on the room.

The hardest part of traveling is usually picking just one destination that you want to go to. Why not make it easy on yourself and pick them all?

No epic journey is ever complete without a great cocktail to kick start it all. The around the world cocktail will inspire you to seek and discover all that the world has to offer and with Kiwi Collection, we bring you nothing but the best from every corner of the world.

How to Make your Around the World Cocktail:

-    ¼ oz Cognac
-    ¼ oz Crème de Noyaux
-    ¾ oz Dark Rum
-    1 ¼ oz Orange Juice
-    1 oz Sweet and Sour Mix
-    Crushed Ice

In a blender add all of the ingredients and blend until smooth. Pour into a wine goblet and serve!

Some of the best places in the world to get your fabulous Around the World cocktail:

Regent Beijing:
Located just minutes away from the famous Forbidden City, Wangfujing Shopping and Tiananmen Square is the Regent Beijing, one of China’s best luxury hotels. Featuring five restaurants and lounges, a fabulous spa sanctuary, a huge adult pool and an exclusive selection of luxury boutique shops, this hotel is sure to satisfy any discerning traveler.

Tivoli Victoria:
Golf lovers rejoice! The Tivoli Victoria in beautiful Vilamoura, Portugal is home to one of Europe’s best golf courses designed by the ledged Arnold Palmer. This luxury five star resort is perfect for business or leisure with state of the art conference rooms, an exclusive nearby beach club, delicious gourmet cuisine by Chef Pedro Pereira and a touch of Far East at their Spa by Banyan Tree.

Jumeirah Essex House:
Since 1931 the Jumeirah Essex House has been the gem of New York. Situated on Central Park South and minutes away for shopping and Broadway this is the perfect spot to get a fabulous New York experience.

Sivory Punta Cana:
Craving a luxury Caribbean getaway like no other? Look no further than the Sivory Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic. Creating a harmony with its natural surroundings, this luxury resort takes relaxation to a whole new level and makes sure that your every need will be met. Here you can rediscover the pleasure of food and dine on world class delicacies along with a great glass of wine from there cellar featuring more than 8000 bottles.

Shangri-La Hotel, Vancouver:
Set in the heart of the city surrounded by a neighborhood of luxury shops, amazing mountain views and the world famous Stanley Park is the tallest building in the city the Shangri-La Hotel, Vancouver in Canada. Offering spacious rooms, amazing cuisine from internationally acclaimed chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten and an indulgent holistic spa sets the scene for a truly unforgettable west coast experience.

Madinat Jumeirah:
Madinat Jumeirah is the famous Arabian Resort of Dubai paying tribute to its heritage and is styled to resemble an ancient Arabian citadel. Comprising of three separate properties with spas, restaurants, shopping and activities, your experience here will truly be like no other and will feel like a whole new world unto itself.

Trump International Hotel & Tower Chicago:
Located alongside the Chicago River is the city’s most enviable address, the Trump International Hotel and Tower Chicago.  Sophisticatedly decorated with custom designed furnishings, floor to ceiling windows, fully equipped kitchens, and attentive service at your disposal makes this the ideal hotel choice for any traveler.

Outrigger Serenity Terraces Resort Phuket:
Get ready to indulge in a private tropical escape in Thailand at the beautiful Outrigger Serenity Terraces Resort Phuket. With ocean facing suits and floor to ceiling windows for breathtaking views, private pools and beach-side dining options, this one luxury getaway  that you will never forget.

The Standard, New York:
The Standard, New York is located in Manhattan’s thriving Meat Packing district of New York and is known as one of the city’s most fashionable neighborhoods full of exclusive clubs, hip restaurants and lovely boutiques. Showcasing unparalleled views of Lower Manhattan and the Hudson River this hotel is the place to see and be seen.

Tribe – The Village Market Hotel:
Take a cultural journey though the farthest corners of Africa at Tribe – The Village Market Hotel in Nairobi, Kenya. Every room at this hotel is a testament of world class comfort with a chic design with an emphasis on detail and luxury.

Looking for a good way to spend your evening in Chicago tomorrow? The Trump International Hotel Chicago is hosting Australian Winemaker Sergio Carlei starting at 7 p.m. on October 27, 2009.

Carlei will be showcasing his two excellent labels, Carlei Estate and Carlei Green Vineyards, and Chef Brunacci of Sixteen, the hotel’s famous restaurant, will be preparing a decadent five-course menu to accompany the wines.

Carlei’s philosophy is that environmentally responsible viticulture is the best course for winemaking: “Soil to a vine is like blood to a human being. We know that toxins in the blood lead to all sorts of health problems in people and the same holds true for plants – toxic soil leads to improper vine health. Most importantly, cleaner vineyards allow the true flavors in the fruit to be expressed, which results in better tasting, more balanced wines.”

Be sure to call the restaurant at (312) 588-8030 to make a reservation if you want to take advantage of this excellent food and wine event in Chicago!

Sixteen was designed by Ivanka Trump and Chicago-based architects Valerio Dewalt Train Associates. It’s found on the 16th floor of the Trumpt International Hotel and Tower Chicago.

The Trump is one of the best luxury hotels in Chicago, and is found right in the heart of the city. It opened in January 2008 and features 339 guestrooms. The hotel also has a spa, a health clab and a chic cocktail lounge called Rebar.

Chicago just lost the bid to Rio for the 2016 Summer Olympics, but with so much to do and see, this is the last city on the planet that actually needs the games to be an attractive tourist destination. Think great shopping, Broadway shows, non-stop festivals, world class cuisine, and some of the best hotels in the United States to name just a few of the many reasons people visit Chicago.

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Aside from the must-see tourist attractions in Chicago, there are a lot of events happening this fall that would make your visit even more enjoyable. During the month of October the city is featuring its local artists through Chicago Artists Month with more than 200 exhibitions.

The city is also known for its theater and this fall presents a wealth of theater productions to choose from. And don’t forget, if you are in the city on a Sunday, make sure to take part in the Chicago tradition of bargains and bargaining with an international flavor at the Maxwell Street Market.

Minutes away from Michigan Avenue, the Magnificent Mile, the Museum of Contemporary Art and multiple trendy boutiques is the luxurious Sofitel Chicago Water Tower Hotel which sits as a sparkling prism in the heart of downtown.

Designed by the French Architect Jean-Paul Viguier, one of Europe’s premier architects, the Sofitel Chicago Water Tower Hotel embraces modern design. Recently, this hotel was named one of “America’s 150 Best Loved Buildings” by the American Institute of Architects (AIA).

Each of the 415 rooms and suites of this Chicago luxury hotel has placed an emphasis on comfort with a sleek design. Rooms are fitted with designer furnishings, beautifully spacious marble bathrooms, plush Frette robes, and extra comfy beds.

When it comes to cuisine, Chicago is known for its large number of regional specialties, and at the Sofitel Chicago Water Tower Hotel they make no acceptations. The hotel’s brasserie, Café des Architectes, offers seasonal menus featuring unique French cuisine in a chic, vibrant atmosphere. Guests are sure to leave with an undoubtedly unforgettable dining experience.

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Perfect for shopaholics and business travelers alike, The Peninsula Chicago is ideally located on the Magnificent Mile. Stay here if you want a versatile hotel that’s great for both business trips and shopping holidays.

Boasting several prestigious awards (such as the Mobil Five-Star and the AAA Five-Diamond awards) the Peninsula Chicago hotel has earned its place among Chicago’s best hotels.

Ideally situated on the Magnificent Mile, this sophisticated hotel is versatile and will work well for you whether you’re traveling on business or planning a romantic escape or shopping vacation. The hotel is really close to both Chicago’s business district and its high-end boutiques.

This large hotel has 339 guestrooms and suites. The guestrooms at this hotel have been recently refurbished and we particularly like the sunny colours and pastels they’ve used to give the rooms a warm and tranquil feeling. For an extremely special occasion, look in to booking the 3,000 square foot Peninsula Suite. This luxury suite has its own terrace and Jacuzzi tub – perfect for relaxing with your sweetheart!

The hotel is known for being high-tech, and our Senior VP of Global Strategy and Brands, Carrie Harrison-Ell, visited the hotel recently to check it out. She particularly liked the three stages of mood lighting which she could control electronically, as well as the ability to control the curtains in the room electronically.

Another nice touch that Carrie enjoyed about her stay here include the knowledgeable Concierge.

“Both of the Concierge on duty were extremely helpful,” she said. “They were members of ‘les Clefs d’Or’ – the Hotel Concierge Society – which is a designation that guarantees quality service.”

Foodies and wine lovers will also find themselves at home at this hotel. The Peninsula offers guests a slew of restaurants to choose from and all of them are great options if you’re looking for fine dining in Chicago. In addition, it was recommended by the Concierge that Carrie check out Pierrot Gourmet (which is a street side café quite close to the hotel). It makes a fantastic yogurt parfait of granola, yogurt and fruit.

“Avenues” at the Peninsula was recently awarded perfect scores by Chicago’s major publications (and it is one of two restaurants in Chicago to get such praise).

For authentic Chinese food, head to the Shanghai Terrace.

And, for traditional afternoon tea, take yourself to The Lobby. The Lobby has an expanded Champagne version named Royal tea, and also has a chocolate buffet and afternoon fashion shows. What a way to spend an afternoon!

Guests who really want to relax can spend some time at the Peninsula Spa by ESPA. The spa is located at the top of the hotel. “Serene” is the best word we can think of to describe this spa. We love both the treatment rooms and the luxurious treatment suites. The relaxation lounge has a fireplace which is perfect for warming up in winter.

Next time you’re in Chicago, be sure to check out the Peninsula Hotel!

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It’s hard to find a perfect business hotel as well as a perfect environmentally friendly hotel, let alone finding a hotel that does both well! But, the Talbott Hotel in Chicago has managed to cater to both types of travelers with ease.

After recently being named the number one business hotel by Crain’s Chicago Business Magazine, while at the same time becoming one of the first Green Seal Certified hotels in the U.S., there’s a lot to like about this luxury hotel in Chicago.

We sent our Senior Vice President of Global Strategy and Brands to the Talbot to check it out.

Located just one block from Michigan Avenue and the famous “Magnificent Mile”, the Talbott Hotel is situated within Chicago’s trendy Gold Coast District. Steps from world-class shopping, restaurants, theatres and sites, it’s a perfect base for travelers of all purposes.

In a recent study conducted by Crain’s Chicago Business Magazine in conjunction with Orbitz Worldwide, the Talbott was named the number one business hotel in Chicago by business travelers who used Orbitz.com. Readers recognized it as the best place to put up out-of-town colleagues, entertain clients or hold business meetings without going over budget.

After staying there, Kiwi Collection’s Senior Vice President of Global Strategy and Brands, Carrie Harrison-Ell, said the Talbott lived up to its reputation. Their expansive suites, fully-equipped meeting rooms and fabulous Sidewalk Café, all made the experience perfect for her on her trip.

“Talbott’s owner is very hands-on with the property,” she said. “They aim to be the best boutique hotel in Chicago and I would highly recommend it.”

Harrison-Ell says, aside from the location, room and facilities, one of the best features of the hotel was its amazing food.

“All of the food was amazing, but if you think you’ve had good calamari in the past, you must try it here!” she added.

In addition to ensuring its facilities are some of the best in the city, the Talbott was recently awarded a Green Seal Certificate and is now one of the only hotels in the U.S. with that environmental recognition. The hotel has worked for nine months to meet the environmental lodging standard (which brings with it requirements in waste management, energy efficiency, water conservation, waste water management and green procurement).

The hotel works on a platform of “sustainability without compromise” which is how we figure it manages to pull off being both an excellent business hotel and environmentally friendly hotel under one room.

The platform includes recycling programs, the use of recyclable consumer paper products, using non-phosphate and biodegradable supplies, ensuring guest room amenities such as soaps and shampoo are the smallest practical size (and partially used amenities are donated to a charity, so that they are recycled for the needy).

The hotel has also installed energy efficient equipment and lighting, water conserving fixtures and automatic sensors for lighting and AC/heating in low traffic areas.

The Talbott was one of five hotels that received the Green Seal Certificate, out of 25 hotels that applied for the certification.

Summer is the perfect time to celebrate food and drink, whether it be after a day well spent site seeing or a long day in meetings.

And no hotel seems to get that as much as the Trump International Hotel and Tower Chicago.

This season, Executive Chef Frank Crunacci is continuing to offer his $32 three course lunch menu at Sixteen (the hotel’s chic restaurant). And, the hotel’s trendy lounge, Rebar, has introduced a cool new summer drink menu!

Sixteen was named Chicago’s best lunch restaurant by Crain’s Chicago Business earlier this year, and given its unique atmosphere, great a la carte options and location in the city, it definitely lives up to the reputation.

The three-course prix fixe menu at Sixteen is truly a steal. At $32 per person (exclusive of tax and tip), guests start with a refreshing non-alcoholic cocktail followed by a three-course meal made from seasonal, high-quality ingredients. The menu changes all the time, depending on what’s fresh at the market.

Guests who want to relax over a refreshing cocktail are in luck too, as Rebar (the cocktail and sushi lounge at the Trump Hotel and Tower Chicago) is offering a refreshing “Liquid Kitchen” menu.

Cocktails are designed using market-fresh fruits and herbs and are extremely tasty!
Try the exotic Black Mamba, for example, which has Grey Goose vanilla, coconut-infused rum and blackberries, served in a half of a fresh coconut).

Rebar also has a dizzying array of non-alcoholic drinks to choose from too – like Gingerline (lime and mint leaves in fresh ginger hajikami, complimented by a splash of gingerale).

Rebar is the perfect spot to go to catch the bi-weekly fireworks in Chicago (every Wednesday and Saturday night until Labor Day).

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We sent our Senior VP of Global Strategy and Brands to check out some of the luxury hotels in Chicago. Read her review of the James Chicago Hotel, where Carrie says the food and service are the hotel’s best assets!

This won’t surprise you – but I enjoyed one of the finest steaks I’ve had while visiting Chicago recently. The surprise (for me, anyway) was that I did not find it at one of the many ‘old boys’ club’ steak houses scattered throughout The Windy City. Rather I was dining at the exquisitely stylish and contemporary James Chicago Hotel. And get this – their chef is from New York!

David Burke’s PRIMEHOUSE serves up an absolutely mouth-watering 40 Day Aged Ribeye.

Burke’s secret? Well we don’t know exactly what it is, but we do know that they dry-age their beef on premises and – get this – they own the bull. I’m not kidding. “Prime” has a proven ability to breed offspring that achieve highly quality, perfectly marbled USDA quality grade beef.

Knowing the talented General Manager of The James Chicago, Patrick Hatton, I’m privy to inside information about the extensive training made available to the restaurant and hotel staff. If I weren’t in the know, I’d have deduced this on my own after dining at PRIMEHOUSE.

Brian, my waiter, was beyond knowledgeable about the menu. I’ve never had anyone teach me so much about steak! Brian wasn’t an anomaly. I was enthralled with the stories I heard from various waiters as they showed off their overwhelming comprehension of beef, and the menu, to a jam-packed restaurant of eager diners.

Beyond the beef, David Burke has created additional masterpieces. The Caesar Salad is fresh and alive with flavour – but not overpowered by garlic (my pet peeve). The table side preparation is an extra nice touch – and is done well.

For dessert, I highly recommend the Warm Chocolate Beignet. Some refer to a beignet as a French donut – only this masterpiece had a ‘center’ that comes overflowing with liquid chocolate. This work of art is topped with banana confit, caramelized pecans, and bourbon ice cream. What a perfect finale to delectable dining experience.

The James Hotel in itself is a must-see (and stay), by the way. Think modern design and attention to detail blended with comfort and state-of-the-art technology. And don’t forget the service! The extensive staff training I mentioned? It’s ongoing, despite a downturn in the economy, and it is one of the many things that set this property above the rest.

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Need a crib, a Blackberry charger, or just some extra hangers? What about those special touches for a birthday or anniversary? Ensuring that all of the little details and personalized touches are there can be a challenge at even the world’s most luxurious hotels – but one hotel in Illinois is making it a whole lot easier to get those needs met.

Hotel Arista is launching “My Arista,” a new web-based system which allows guests to personalize their visit to fit their preferences and needs. Using “My Arista,” guests tell Hotel Arista’s dedicated staff exactly which amenities and options they want during their stay, including the latest in electronics and exercise equipment, specialty bedding, and personalized touches for special occasions

“My Arista” allows guests the option to select an in-room Nintendo Wii, Wii Fit, treadmill, or exercise bike. Additionally, the program gives guests their choice of ten different pillows, including a hypo-allergenic pillow, the “Anti-Snore” (saves marriages), or the “Buckwheat,” which touts easing tension and reducing back pain.

For bedtime preparation, the new tech option offers books of poetry or philosophy, a yoga DVD or an iPod pre-programmed with soothing music.

Hotel Arista, located in Naperville, IL, is the state’s first hotel property to receive LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification, and is also the recipient of a Four Diamond Award® in 2009 from the Automobile Association of America (AAA).

This eco-friendly hotel has 144 modern designed residential-style accommodations, as well as signature restaurant, SugarToad.

Hotel Arista artfully balances luxury with eco-friendliness by using 30% less water and 21% less energy than hotels of comparable size. All cleaning products are chemical-free, and abundant natural lighting contributes to the hotel’s energy savings. In development, the year-old property committed to recycling 70% of construction waste as well.

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We sent our Senior VP of Global Strategy and Brands to check out some of Chicago’s best hotels. Read her review of the Park Hyatt Chicago!

If you’re anything like me, you want to absorb as much of a city’s essence directly from the hotel you’re staying in. You know what I mean…. exquisite views from your room, proximity to the finest things the city has to offer and of course amazing food! The Park Hyatt Chicago delivers all of this on a silver platter.

For starters, the sumptuous hotel sits high above the renowned “Magnificent Mile”. This means two things: phenomenal shopping, and spectacular views of the city! Dining at Park Hyatt Chicago’s world-class contemporary French dining restaurant, NoMI, was the highlight of my recent stay, however.

If the weather is good, I highly recommend starting out at the NoMI Garden for drinks and appetizers (the signature NoMI Sushi Roll is to-die-for). This lively hotspot is situated on the seventh floor, next to NoMI’s main dining room. The atmosphere is vibrant, fun, and energetic. Even if traveling alone, the NoMI Garden gives you the feeling you are part of something special in Chicago.

Once in the dining room, aim to be seated near the window – it’s even worth a wait! The view of the Chicago skyline is breathtaking. Imagine a cluster of historical landmarks (heard of the Chicago Water Tower?) absolutely glowing against the dark Chicago sky. If you are traveling alone, you’ll now wish you’d brought a date!

I can’t forget to mention NoMI’s menu of carefully crafted treats. The Duet of Prime Beef melts in your mouth – literally. As for dessert, there isn’t one in the house that will disappoint you. Believe me, I know. I tried most of them!

Unlike a lot of other cities in the U.S., Chicago kicks off its July 4th celebrations on July 3rd. So, Independence Day is really one long festival-filled weekend in Chicago. Learn what’s going on in Chicago for Independence Day, and find out where to stay if you’re visiting Chicago during this patriotic holiday.

Independence Day Fireworks Over Lake Michigan:

Chicago’s fourth of July fireworks actually start on Friday, July 3! You’ll see them after the Patriotic concert (at the Petrillo Music Shell – see details below), starting at around 9 p.m.

Independence Day Fireworks at Navy Pier:

Fireworks start at Navy Pier in Chicago at 10:15 p.m. on Saturday, July 4th. Don’t miss them!

Good places to view the 2009 fireworks in Chicago include:

All along the lakefront
Grant Park
Navy Pier

Independence Day 2009 Concerts in Chicago:

On July 3rd head to the Petrillo Music Shell (235 S Columbus Drive) to hear the 85th Army Band play some good all-American music. The concert starts at 7:30 p.m. Make sure to catch the Independence Day fireworks over Lake Michigan once the concert is over.

On July 4th, take part in the Grant Park Music festival at the Jay Pritzker Pavilion in Millennium Park from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Chicago Fourth of July and Taste of Chicago 2009:

Have your hot dog and your patriotism too by attending the Taste of Chicago over the Independence Day Long weekend. This is the Midwest’s largest food festival, and we can’t think of a yummier reason to be in Chicago than that.

Admission to the festival is free, and takes place from July 3 to July 5 in Grant Park (300 S. Columbus).

On July 3 and July 4, the Taste of Chicago opens at 11 a.m. and closes at 9 p.m.

On July 5th, the Taste of Chicago opens at 11 a.m. and closes at 6 p.m.

Need a Hotel in Chicago:

If you’re just visiting for the Independence Day long weekend, here are a few of the best hotels in Chicago for you to look in to:

Trump International Hotel & Tower Chicago
The James Chicago Hotel
The Talbott Hotel
The Allerton Hotel in Chicago

The James Chicago Hotel is a great business hotel in the bustling city of Chicago Illinois. It’s definitely a home away from home for busy professionals on the road who are looking for top notch accommodation, excellent food and a relaxing spa.

Chicago is one of the biggest and most interesting cities in North America. Whether you’re travelling on business or for pleasure, you are sure to find yourself here at some point. When visiting Chicago, we at Kiwi Collection highly recommend staying at the James Chicago Hotel.

The James Chicago is perfect for business travelers looking for the best accommodation in town. But, it is also right in the heart of the city (steps from Michigan Avenue), making it a great home base if you’re traveling to Chicago to get in some quality sightseeing and shopping time.

All rooms employ a warm, timelessly modern design that is both artistic and functional. The warm tones, streamlined dark wood furniture and slate-tile and marble bathrooms make for a comfortable and modern experience.

Here, you’ll feel right at home as the rooms are well designed with a full range of amenities. Have your pick of all types and sizes of rooms: guestrooms, studios and lofts, one bedroom apartments and loft penthouses!  You won’t be disappointed.
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