Happy Chinese New year! It’s the year 4708 and its time to welcome the year of the Tiger! The big day itself doesn’t start until February 14th but all around the world there are celebrations occurring around that date.

Chinese New Year is full of good luck, firecrackers, lanterns, dragon dances and a whole lot of fun. So because this is the year of the tiger why not celebrate with an Eye of the Tiger Cocktail? It’s sure to get you in the mood to let loose and ring in the New Year.

How to make your Eye of the Tiger Cocktail:

-1 oz Rum
-1 oz Coconut rum (Malibu)
-1 oz Cranberry juice
-1 oz Sugar syrup
-1 oz Orange juice
-1/2 oz Dark rum

Add ingredients (except dark rum) into a martini shaker full of ice and shake. Strain into an ice filled highball glass and top with dark rum. Garnish with an orange slice if you like.

Looking to celebrate the New Year? Cities all over the world are saying hello to the Year of the Tiger with awesome events and great places to stay:

Hong Kong:
Known as the events capital of Asia, Hong Kong will feature it’s world renowned Chinese New Year Night Parade on February 14th from 8pm -930. This parade is one of the best loved events of the entire New Year celebrations! The parade will run along the stunning backdrop of Victoria Harbour and feature participants form almost every country on earth! Other events here include a 2010 Lunar New Year Fireworks display, a Chinese New Year Horserace Day and an New Year’s Soccer tournament to name a few. While you are here be sure to stay that these Hong Kong hotels:

The Upper House:
The Upper House is the perfect calm escape from the hustle and bustle of the city and is great after you indulge in all of the New Year festivities. Boasting extraordinary views of the ancient Victoria Harbour, you are in luck if you want to get an aerial view of the Night Parade!

The Peninsula Hong Kong:
The Peninsula Hong Kong is one of the world’s most notorious and magnificent hotels and is an amazing place to have a New Year’s celebration. Come and stay in their spectacular Victoria Harbour vistas and surround yourself in comfort along with the best cityscape views imaginable.

Singapore:
If you are looking for one of the most anticipated and wildly participated events in Singapore, the Chingay Parade is one huge street party you don’t want to miss out on. Running from February 19- 20th some of the special features this year will include never seen before first fire-cracker dragons as well as fantasy characters like majestic “flying horses” along with various multi-cultural local and overseas performances. And when in town check book your stay at one of these amazing Singapore hotels:

Capella Singapore:
Located on Sentosa Island, Capella Singapore is just far enough away from the New Years hoop la that you can have the best of both worlds; a wonderfully relaxing vacation and a celebratory adventure. Be sure to head over to the bar Bob’s where you can enjoy one of their signature cocktails.

The Fullerton Hotel Singapore:
The Fullerton Hotel Singapore is a mixture of beautiful grand architecture, luxe styling and is the hotel of choice for those who love to be pampered. Usher in the New Year at their Town Restaurant and indulge in an array of international cuisine at their Chinese New Year Buffet Dinner from February 15th- 28th.

San Francisco:
This is the city to be in for any North American looking to ring in the New Year. San Francisco has one of the largest Chinatowns in North America and one of the most important Chinese centers in the United States. There are a lot of events happing all over the city this year including the Shanxi Dancers on February 21 2010 and of course the 2010 Chinese New year Festival and Parade on February 27 at 5:15pm. This parade is known for being one of the best in the world, full of elaborate costumes, ferocious lions, exploding fire crackers and the newly crowned Miss Chinatown. When heading to the city be sure to stay at one of these luxury San Francisco hotels:

Palace Hotel, San Francisco:
The Palace Hotel, San Francisco is the city’s cultural and architectural icon and within walking distance to where all the action will be in Chinatown. And when you book your stay, consider staying a little longer, with their complementary night package – when you say three nights get your fourth night free.

The St. Regis, San Francisco:
Surrounded with dramatic cityscape views, the St. Regis, San Francisco is one luxury hotel that is sure to inspire. Located right next to Museum of Modern Art, come and soak up the city’s culture and celebrate the year of the tiger.

London:
This year Trafalgar Square will be transformed to showcase traditional Chinese dragon and lion dances along with modern music and Chinese performers. Along with a fabulous parade planned on February 21st the city is also featuring a special wild life photography exhibition at the National Geographic Store on Regent St. displaying some of the best images on earth of the big striped cats to celebrate the year of the tiger. And when in town book your stay at some of the best hotels in London:

Baglionli Hotel London:
Known as one of the most premier addresses in Central London, the Baglioni Hotel London will give this Chinese New Year a luxurious Italian flair. Overlooking the Kensington Gardens and Palace this hotel is also close to some of the best shopping in the city. This will be one new year celebration you will never forget.

The Capital Hotel:
The Capital Hotel is probably one of the best boutique hotels you will find in the city. Known for its classic British elegance and just a short walk from Hyde Park, this prime locations is perfect for seeing the sites and of course, the Chinese New Year’s celebrations.

New York:
The New York City metropolitan area contains at least 6 Chinatowns and Manhattan’s Chinatown has one of the largest Chinese communities outside of Asia. This year though, the big celebratory parade is happening in Queens on February 20th starting at 11am – 1pm. The route will begin on Union St. and 37th ending at Main St. and 39th Ave. with around 4,000 participants featuring dragon dancers, steel drummers and of course lots of fireworks. Be sure to book your stay early at these great New York City hotels:

Jumeirah Essex House:
Say happy New Year in this Art Deco masterpiece that is located right on Central Park South. The Jumeirah Essex House is the perfect place for first time visitors to New York and is close to all of the city’s well known attractions.

Andaz Wall Street:
Eating, drinking and socializing is a huge part of the Andaz Wall Street hotel’s plan. Their Bar Seven will serve you up cocktails that is sure to help you get ready for all of the Chinese New Year festivities. Modern and cozy, this is a great place to be while enjoying the “city that never sleeps”.

Just had a wonderful week in New York, and this time with my wife, my two year old daughter and 6 month old son.

After living in London for a year, New York still has the edge when it comes to the thrill of being in the ultimate cosmopolitan city. Everything you feel like doing is at your finger tips, just a call or a short walk or cab ride away.

I have lived in New York for a total of 16 years during many different times of my life, and it always seems that sooner or later I want to move back!

The highlight was a Sunday day trip by helicopter to my friend Daniele Bodini’s horse farm in Millbrook in upstate New York.

Priceless pictures of my two year old circling the Statue of Liberty at sunset. Lunched downtown at Balthazar (always good) and uptown at Geisha, Amaranth and Hatsuhana.

Dinners at La Esquina (always fun and relaxed), Waverly Inn (clubby and familiar), 15 East (great little Japanese), Shun Lee Palace (good old classic), Cipriani Uptown (back on top), Blue Ribbon (Delicious and late night).

This time I had a particularly enjoyable stay at the always good and a classic Peninsula Hotel right off Fifth Ave at 55th street.

The Peninsula recently underwent an extensive renovation. The rooms are very comfortable and the service super efficient. Perfect location. Intimate and cozy, yet sophisticated. The rooftop cocktail bar is outstanding, particularly when the weather is nice.

The Peninsula rooftop spa by ESPA a sanctuary. Whether alone on a business trip or with the family, I found the Peninsula an ideal choice in New York City.

Erik Wachtmeister is the founder of ASMALLWORLD.

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.

Way back in the early 1870’s at the Manhattan Club in New York City, the Manhattan cocktail was born.

Often called the “king of cocktails” and a drinking man’s cocktail, it’s also pretty popular with the ladies and is a popular concoction for any bartender to build off of. Subject to considerable variation there are many varieties stemming from this classic from Ruby to Dry to Perfect to even a version called Rob Roy. But whatever your style, noting beats the original.

If you want to turn sophistication up a notch it’s time to get your Manhattan making skills down. And like any classic, it’s quick, simple and oh so delicious.

To Make a Manhattan: (from David A. Embury’s classic “The Fine Art of Mixing Drinks”)

-5 parts American Whiskey
-1 part Italian (sweet) vermouth
-A dash of Angostura bitters

Bring ingredients together in a cocktail shaker with ice, stir and serve in a martini glass garnished with a maraschino cherry. Fabulous!

To get a truly great Manhattan you need to go straight to the source. Here are some of the best hotels in New York City to get your Manhattan:

The Standard, New York:
Visitors to Manhattan who want a trendy, modern experience should consider staying at The Standard, New York. This trendy hotel is located in the chic Meatpacking District. Guests can get a great (and somewhat controversial) view of The High Line, New York’s elevated railroad turned green space. Remember: if you can see people, people can see you. Wear some pants.

Jumeirah Essex House:
Lovers of some of New York’s finest heritage buildings will thoroughly enjoy the Jumeirah Essex House. This hotel first opened its doors in 1931. At 509 recently-refurbished rooms, guests can enjoy this New York hotel’s exquisite location – right next to Central Park.

6 Columbus:
Fans of interior designer Steven Sclaroff will be impressed with 6 Columbus, one of his projects right in the heart of Manhattan. Referred to as an “urban retreat”, this lovely luxury boutique hotel in New York is found on Columbus Circle across from Central Park, and is one of the newest additions to the Thompson Hotels Collection.

The Greenwich Hotel:
Surrounded by cobblestone streets and historic brick warehouses, Greenwich Hotel is found in the interesting and unique TriBeCa neighborhood. This is where you should stay if you’re interested in New York’s best boutiques, art galleries and eateries.

The Plaza Hotel:
Large rooms, a luxurious French décor and high attention to detail are but a few of the many reasons to stay at The Plaza Hotel in New York. And, if you’re a fan of Gossip Girls, you will definitely want to stay here because this is where the show is filmed. The Plaza was just awarded a 2010 AAA Five Diamond Rating for the first time in its history, so now is a better time than ever to stay here if you’re looking for quality.

Soho House New York:
Boutique, gorgeous and oh-so New York, Soho House New York is both a private members’ club and a hotel in the Meatpacking District. Found in an old warehouse, guests will enjoy the interior brick walls (so New York!), the rooftop pool with views of the West Village and Hudson River, and the intimate atmosphere that comes with a hotel that is only 24 rooms in size.

Mandarin Oriental New York:
No trip to Manhattan is complete without a day of shopping, and the Mandarin Oriental New York is close to some of the city’s best shopping. If you want to see some of New York’s best sites, this is also a great place to be due to its proximity to Grand Central Station and the Empire State Building. Guests here will get excellent views of both Central Park and the city skyline.

Smyth Tribeca – A Thompson Hotel:
Modern and classical all at the same time, Smyth Tribeca (found on trendy West Broadway) is one of those rare finds in that it’s bold and soft, simple and complex. Lovers of fine design will truly enjoy this unique loft-style hotel.

Trump International Hotel and Tower New York:
A New York icon, The Trump International Hotel and Tower New York is where you should stay if you’re on business in the Big Apple. This boutique hotel has 167 rooms, and is sure to give you the personalized and customized attention that you’re used to.  To decompress, remember to check out this hotel’s gorgeous 6,000 square foot spa.

This year marks the 47th annual New York Film Festival which will run from September 25 – October 11, 2009. First held in 1963, this festival has now become one of the most important film festivals in the world. All films are selected by the Film Society of Lincoln Center and tickets will go on sale to the general public on September 13th 2009.

The 47th edition of the New York Film Festival will open with the U.S. premiere of Alain Resnais’s Wild Grass (Les herbes folles) and close with Pedro Almodóvar’s Broken Embraces. This year’s Centerpiece will be Lee Daniels’ Precious: Based on the Novel Push by Sapphire. In addition, this year’s festival will include two Masterworks series from China and India.

If you are going to be visiting New York this year for the film fest make sure to book your stay at one of these amazing luxury hotels in NYC.

Thompson Lower East Side:

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A recent addition to the Thompson Hotels portfolio, the Thompson Lower East Side is located in of Manhattans focal points, the Lower East Side. The hotel is impeccably designed with a clean and industrial feel.

Each for the spacious rooms at Thompson Lower East Side feature a custom designed light box by legendary artist Lee Friedlander and feature floor to ceiling windows allowing for exquisite views of the cityscape.

Foodies are sure to love the hotel’s restaurant, SHANG, with its global Chinese menu featuring bold flavors by Chef Susur Lee. “Unique, often thrilling, endlessly inventive, whimsical and traditional all in the same dish, daring and delicious.” Is what NY’s legendary restaurant critic, Gael Greene, says about the food.

The Greenwich Hotel:

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Located in the eclectic neighborhood of TriBeCa this luxury boutique hotel is surrounded by cobblestone streets and historic brick warehouses. At The Greenwich Hotel, each room is completely unique with furnishings drawn from a wide range of cultural influences, from hand-laid Moroccan tile, hand-loomed Tibetan silk rugs to English leather settees. It’s simply beautiful with old world charm and completed with modern amenities.

Relaxing from a day of film and festivities is easy to do at the hotel. Complete with a drawing room, courtyard or spa, guess are sure to enjoy a little de-stressing whatever their style.

A spectacular dining experience awaits you at the Hotel’s Locanda Verde, an affordable, casual neighborhood Italian tavern serving Andrew Carmellini’s riffs on Italian cooking.

W New York:

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Sometimes called an oasis among skyscrapers, W New York is a haven from the bustle of Manhattan located in the heart of the city. Each suite is unique and luxuriously comfortable offering pillow-top beds and soft terry robes.

Simplistically designed with modern décor and dimly lit, the W New York is also the perfect spot to let go and unwind.   Complete with a two-story spa Bliss; feel free to indulge in their many treatments and attentive service.

And for those of you who hate leaving your furry friends behind W New York is happy to host your entire family. Pets are welcome; it’s like a home away from home.

Morgans:

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This unconventionally gorgeous Madison Avenue hotel has changed the rules. Morgans offers distinctive design sensibility. Legendary designer Andree Putman has reinterpreted the “boutique hotel” which propelled Morgans style without changing its unique character. Design additions include an art installation created by Trafik, where autonomous programming projects random patterns and colors onto the ceiling during the day. In the evening, guests can make their own light-art experience in real time!

Rooms are elegantly refined and designed for ultimate comfort. The ultra-chic duplex penthouse is a timeless space complete with its own green house, full kitchen, media room, spiral staircase and two terraces with stunning NYC views.

Recently branded the Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week, this New York event is being held September 10-17, 2009. New York Fashion week features designers’ spring 2010 collections.

During this week Bryant Park (42nd and Sixth) will temporarily be converted into a fashion arena. For anyone who has a love for fashion, head down to New York City and bask in the extraordinary talent of American Designers.

There is always an energetic buzz in the city of New York during Fashion Week. Although shows are attended by invitation only for journalists, editors, buyers, celebrities and social types, there are still many reasons to come to the city for the event and be a part of it all. For full details of the shows, scroll down to the bottom of the article.

While in New York make sure to book your stay at one of these fabulous luxury NYC hotels.

Jumeirah Essex House:

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As one of New York City’s leading hotels, if you want luxury this is the place to stay. Located on Central Park south, the Manhattan landmark is only a quick 2 minute drive to Bryant Park, the heart of Fashion Week.

These chic accommodations at the hotel, many which feature incredible views, have lured dignitaries, celebrities and world leaders to this exclusive hotel for years. And with a recent $90 million refurbishment program that pays homage to its classic Art Deco heritage Jumeirah Essex House is sure to give every guest a quintessential New York experience

The Standard New York:

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Located in the trendy Meat-Packing district area of New York and only a 10 min drive from the Fashion Week festivities, this hip hotel is one of the tallest in the neighborhood near the Hudson River. Paying homage to Scandinavian mid-century modernism this place is for lovers, not necessarily room sharing business friends (due to the glass showers).

Perfect for the New York’s Fashion Week The Standard New York is a place where guests should be prepared to look their best as the walkway from the curb to reception is a runway, complete with flattering lighting and a dramatic polished black ceiling.

Royalton:

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Situated in midtown Manhattan, the Royalton is chic and unforgettable. With fashion week only minutes away this impeccably designed hotel is perfect for those who love sophistication.

With 168 over-sized rooms and suites, designed by Charlotte Macaux, each offers bold and distinct statements featuring luxurious entertainment amenities to meet guests every need.

The Royalton is also home to Brasserie44, an exceptional culinary destination. With a world class wine list and creative American cuisine using only be best ingredients this spot makes it a perfect end to your day or a great way to start your evening.

6 Columbus:

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Located on the bustling Columbus Circle across from Central Park, 6 Columbus is one of the most anticipated urban retreats in Manhattan. With interiors designed by Steven Sclaroff, rooms and suites have been given a 60’s modernist-inspired feeling. This ultra swank hotel is only five minutes away from the heart of Fashion Week and with each room decorated with artwork form the world’s greatest photographers it’s sure to never go out of style.

Spring’s 2010 Collections for the Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week 2009 Schedule:

Escape the hustle and bustle this Labor Day by heading to tranquil Lake Placid. Surrounded by majestic mountains, clear lakes and rivers, you won’t find better scenery in New York!

Kick back and go canoeing or kayaking, hike on the mountains and enjoy all of the great shops, restaurants and bars in the area. Lake Placid is only about five hours out of the city – so it’s far enough away to feel like a big trip, but still doable for a long weekend.

If you’re planning on checking out this beautiful area for the long weekend, we recommend that you stay at some of these great hotels in Lake Placid:

Mirror Lake Inn: this gorgeous inn is the perfect spot for a family vacation or romantic weekend away with your sweetheart. Conveniently located one block from the quaint shops on Main Street, Mirror Lake Inn consists of five lodging buildings (two are on the lake side of the street with a private beach and boathouse in between, and three are on the Main House side of the street).

Lake Placid Lodge: One of the most exclusive retreats in North America, you can expect to get breath-taking views of the Adirondack Mountains from Lake Placid Lodge. This hotel is tiny – at only 30 rooms, you can expect excellent, personalized service and a high level of attention to detail at this gorgeous getaway.

The Whiteface Lodge: A luxury resort and private residence club, “rustic sophistication” is the best phrase we c

an use to describe the atmosphere at The Whiteface Lodge. Suites have Adirondack hardwood furnishings and handmade accents. You’ll love the big soaker tubs, pillow-top beds and cast iron gas fireplaces – perfect for snuggling up and enjoying your weekend getaway.

The Point: You’ll find The Point nestled among old pine trees. It really fits in with its surroundings as it’s constructed from massive notched logs and is a total refuge from the big city. You can spend your time here in solitude or you can be social. It’s totally up to you, depending on what you need in order to relax. The Point only has 11 rooms, so you can bank on an intimate, private experience here.

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Spotted: seven stunning and exquisitely dressed young guys and girls scheming, shopping, and of course, gossiping. Where, you ask? At The New York Palace Hotel –the home to much of the notoriety taking place on the set of the hit series “Gossip Girl.”

While most of us settle into our fishbowls on a regular work day, Blake Lively, Ed Westwick, Penn Badgley, and Leighton Meester are among the lucky few who get to call this luxury hotel in New York City their office.

The New York Palace Hotel is the exquisite stage and host to the drama that unfolds on “Gossip Girl.” The hotel’s timeless courtyard, trendy GiLT Bar, The Madison Room, and The Library have all been featured on the series.

During the first season of the show that offers an inside view to the lifestyles of the rich and spoiled, Serena van der Woodsen (played by Blake Lively) and her family lived in one the four Triplex Suites at The New Palace Hotel. Each of the signature Triplex Suites has an exclusive, spacious rooftop terrace with spectacular views of the Big Apple’s skyline and feature wood-burning fireplaces, all in the heart of Manhattan no less.

As the rumors flow and the drama unravels, Gossip Girl’s characters sip martinis at GiLT Bar and elect The New York Palace Hotel as their choice location for wedding celebrations and controversial fashion shows. Which comes to no surprise as this New York luxury hotel offers the finest in colonial grandeur and modern affluence around.

The Palace’s 805 rooms and 88 suites are renowned for their unrivaled character, breathtaking views, and spaciousness.

The New York Palace Hotel is now part of the Dorchester Collection and is known for adding a modern 55-story tower to the historic landmark, Villard Mansion. The hotel is known for its excellent service and being able to cater to international guests with ease.

If you want to feel like the characters on Gossip Girl, be sure to stay for an extended period in the tower. It’s perfect for longer stays and comes with free internet.

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

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!

Part of the luxury travel experience are the special perks afforded to the discerning traveler that make the destination that much more enjoyable. We think that we’ve amassed some pretty unique luxury properties in the Kiwi Collection, ones that provide that something extra…thats why we individually choose and inspect each property we add to the Collection…ensuring that our word is golden in the eyes of you, our clients.

One of the things that gets my mojo going is having a cool bevvie on a fabulous rooftop, or simply enjoying the sunset. So here’s a list (in no particular order) of Seven Sensational Rooftop views. Agree? Disagree? Have other recommendations? Let me know what you think. Enjoy!

1. Cavalieri Hilton, Rome, Italy
For the best birds-eye view of the Dome of St Peter’s and what seems like the whole of this beautiful city, dine at the Michelin two-star La Pergola on the ninth floor rooftop of the Cavalieri Hilton, near the Vatican (you get the same views too from the two 200 sq m duplex suites on the corners of the eighth and ninth floor – and they have private entrances to La Pergola. Hotel General Manager is Marcus-Milan Arandelovic.

2. Banyan Tree Bangkok, Bangkok, Thailand
The Banyan Tree’s 62nd floor Vertigo restaurant is not for the faint-hearted, but where else can you dine so high, out of doors, while checking the city’s rooftops? If you are fit enough, by the way, enter the annual September vertical marathon, 1,073 steps from ground to the top of the building. General Manager is Bernold Schroeder.

3. Athenaeum InterContinental, Athens, Greece
The eighth floor Club Continental terrace of the Athenaeum InterContinental allows you to enjoy complimentary cocktails as you watch the sun set over the Acropolis. Later, enjoy floodlit views of this center of ancient Greece from the hotel’s rooftop Premier restaurant. General Manager of this art-filled hotel is Panos Panayotopoulos.

4. Hotel Gansevoort, New York, NY, USA
The 13-floor Gansevoort, in the Meat Packing District, has a popular rooftop. There is a 45-foot long outdoor heated pool with underwater light and music show, and the bar gives 360-degree views over lower Manhattan and, west across the Hudson River, to New Jersey (you are also a three floors higher than the members-only Soho House so you can watch the rooftop antics there). General Manager is Elon Kenchington.

5. Burj al Arab, Dubai, UAE
Unless you are THE Woods (who hit a golfball there), or Agassi or Federer (who had a mock tennis game over a specially-constructed net), the only way you can get out on the cantilevered 28th floor helicopter landing pad of the Burj al Arab is to arrange helicopter transfer in from the airport. And yes, it is worth it, if only for the view! General Manager is Luc Delafosse.

6. Las Ventanas al Paraiso, Los Cabos, Mexico
Take one of the two-floor casitas – say 208 – at Las Ventanas al Paraiso, and head upstairs to watch the stars over the Sea of Cortez as you enjoy the jacuzzi on your private terrace. The resort’s spa offers, in addition, a Sea and Stars massage. General Manager is Luis Fernandes.

7. The Peninsula Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
Arrange to fly in by helicopter and you land on the roof of The Peninsula’s 28th floor tower – the view on the way is magnificent, and as you land you look over Victoria Harbour to Hong Kong Island. If you do not, of course, fancy a chopper, come in from the airport by a hotel Rolls, take a high-floor Harbour-facing suite and dine up at Felix restaurant and the view of the Island is the same. General Manager is Ian Coughlan.