Statistically speaking, when it comes to New Year’s resolutions, momentum its typically lost around the 14th of January. This is also true for Kiwi Collection and Refreshing Fridays is back on the adult drinking regimen with the delicious classic, Tom Collins.

There are a few different legends about how the Tom Collins got its name but the most popular once is known as The Great Tom Collins Hoax of 1874.  This prank took over New York, Pennsylvania and elsewhere in the United States where a conversation would start with “Have you seen Tom Collins?” Predictably the listener would say “no” and the prankster would go on to tell you he just overheard someone named Tom Collins at a bar down the street saying hateful and libelous things about you. You race to that bar to confront the bounder, where you would be told that Tom Collins had just left for a bar several blocks away. As you chase all over the city to find him, your friends convulse with laughter. This joke went so far that even several newspapers propagated the successful joke by printing stories containing false sightings of Tom Collins.

Get in on the fun and make your own Tom Collins:

-2 oz Gin
-1oz  fresh squeezed lemon juice
-1 tsp. of super fine sugar
-3 oz Club soda

Mix gin, lemon juice and sugar in a Collins glass filled with ice and top it off with club soda. Garnish with a lemon slice, maraschino cherry and serve.

Some of the best hotels in the USA to get a great Tom Collins:

The Standard, New York:
Perfect for shopping, sightseeing, and enjoying a relaxing all-American drink, The Standard New York is where you’ll get excellent views of the city. Our favorite suite is the Empire Suite – the wall to floor windows face onto Midtown and Greenwich Village. Wow!

Trump International Hotel & Tower Chicago:
One of the windy city’s biggest icons, nothing says “Chicago” like the Trump International Hotel and Tower. Stay here if you’re a foodie, a business leader (or both), and be sure to ask them for their Tom Collins. It won’t disappoint.

Jumeirah Essex House:
A New York icon, Jumeirah Essex House is an art deco masterpiece from 1931. This is a great place to stay if you want to be right on Central Park – and, of course, Jumeirah Essex House makes for an excellent place to enjoy a traditional Tom Collins.

Sundance Resort:
Known as one of Utah’s leading resorts, Sundance Resort offers a world of outdoor adventure. Set along the beautiful Wasatch mountain range guests will enjoy the quietude here that is a welcomed contrast to the normal bustle found at most Utah ski resorts. And if you are heading down for the Sundance Film Festival this year from January 21-31, 2010 be sure to take advantage of their Film Fest package where if you book 4 or more nights in one of their mountain cottages you’ll get 8 tickets to film screenings at Sundance Village, 2 tickets to film screenings in Park City and 2 Festival credentials!

Acqualina Resort & Spa On The Beach:
What could be better than a Tom Collins then at the Acqualina Resort & Spa On the Beach which is located on Collins Ave. in Sunny Isle Beach, Florida? This luxury coastal hotel is the perfect place for lovers of world-class golf, fine dining, fabulous shopping and beautiful white sandy beaches. Relax and indulge with their pool side reflexology treatments or let loose at the great nearby nightlife.

Four Seasons Resort Lana’i at Manele Bay:
There’s no better escape from the winter than a trip to Hawaii, and one of the best places to stay on Lana’I is the Four Seasons Resort Lana’I at Menele Bay. Here, you’ll get gorgeous views of the Pacific Ocean on an almost 100% private island.

The Lodge at Glendorn:
Like taking a step back in time, the Lodge at Glendorn is set amounts beautiful densely forested hills along a trout filled brook in northwestern Pennsylvania. Inspired by the love of the outdoors, each redwood cabin is luxuriously rustic complete with wood burning fireplaces and perfectly decorated to give you that forest hideout feel. Set with an award winning culinary team and a philosophy to use only the finest of ingredients, Gelndorn meals are sure to excite.

The Phoenician:
No trip to Phoenix is complete without a stay in Scottsdale. This upscale neighborhood is filled with stunning scenery, rich colors and textures and, of course, The Phoenician – a great 654-room hotel that’s geared towards golfers.

Sé San Diego:
A Tom Collins is sure to put you in a celebratory mood, especially when the luxurious Se San Diego is celebrating its first year anniversary! Just minutes away from the beach with warm West Coast/Asian- inspired design, a fabulous spa, world-class cuisine and recipient as one of Conde Nast Traveler’s “Hot Hotels” this luxury hotel is the perfect starting point to discover all that San Diego has to offer.

Homestead Inn – Thomas Henkelmann:
Perfect for New Yorker’s looking for a quick escape to Connecticut, Homestead Inn is one of the best places to stay in the area, especially if you’re in to stunning design and equally stunning cuisine. These guys just “get it”. How will their Tom Collins compare? You’ll have to stay there to find out.

Hotel Granduca:
Located in Houston’s trendy Uptown are this luxury boutique created by Giorgio Borlenghi will transport you to old-world Italy inspired by the Renaissance life of the Granduca of Monfallito. Hotel Granduca’s spacious rooms feature original Italian art, 400-count Italian linins and large walk-in closet. And if you’d like a little more Italy with your stay, discover the unique flavors of Ristorante Cavour for some fabulous Northern Italian cuisine with a French accent.

Fairmont Battery Wharf:
Set along the waterfront ins Boston’s first neighborhood, the Fairmont Battery Wharf is steeped in over 300 years of history and just steps away from amazing attractions like the Institute of Contemporary Art, Freedom Trail and the Rose Kennedy Greenway. And after a long day exploring this luxury hotel brings you a unforgettable culinary journey at their restaurant Sensing offering eclectic, artfully designed dishes.

Palace Hotel, San Francisco:
An icon of San Francisco, Palace Hotel was rebuilt in 1909 after being destroyed by the great earthquake of 1906. We can’t think of a better American icon than this great, traditional hotel. Enjoy this hotel’s grand rooms and common spaces while sipping on a traditional Tom Collins.

Kiwi Collections luxury online magazine Wow Travel has just put together a new photo feature. This is just a small sampling of some of the hotels beautiful evening settings.

Be sure to take a look at Wow Travel’s full photo feature titled Lantern Love.

The Mandarin Oriental Hong Kong in Hong Kong, China.

The One&Only Palmilla in Los Cabos, Mexico.

The beautiful W New Orleans French Quarter in New Orleans, USA.

The Tanjong Jara Resort in Dungun, Malaysia.

The Singita Boulders Lodge in Sabi Sand Reserve, South Africa.

Le Touessrok in Trou d’Eau Douce, Mauritius.

The Mahua Kothi in Bandhavgarh National Park, India.

If you’re looking for a true Washingtonion experience, the W Washington, DC fits the bill perfectly.  Formerly the Hotel Washington, DC, this once historic hotel turned ultra –modern is literally right across from the White House and minutes away from Capitol Hill.

Designed to embody Washington DC’s most powerful suits, the hotel’s underlying theme, is pinstripes and black lace.  Showcased in every detail, the decor was skillfully executed by Interior Designer, Dianna Wong.

It was my last night in DC, and the W was the perfect spot to spend a Friday evening.  Their rooftop bar, POV faces directly across from the Whitehouse.  I heard if the timing is right, you could even catch a glimpse of Obama, getting out of his helicopter.

POV is THE place to see and be seen in DC. There are line-ups around the corner but luckily for hotel guests you just present your room key and off you go!  For the winter season, they are featuring enticing hot cocktails.  Peanut Buttered Rum, Hot Not Chocolate, Mulled Pear Cider, and American Cream & Coffee.  Yum!

Their restaurant J& G Steakhouse, by famed Chef Jean Georges Vongerichten features a selection of premium meats, fresh fish, and the highest quality raw items from the East and West coasts.

I had the Seared Halibut with a Scallion-Chili Sauce Basil and Celery, it was heaven on a plate.

The name of this hotel’s game?  Indulgence. And indulge I did.

Hollywood is famed for its cultural identity as the historical center for movie stars and the motion picture industry. Often associated with glamour, sophistication and luxury, every party could use a little Hollywood flair.

The cocktail pushed its way into the mainstream with the help of early Hollywood cinema which cemented it into our culture.  And like most people in Hollywood, the Hollywood Cocktail is an interesting mix of flavors that just seem to work well together.

How to make your own Hollywood Cocktail:

-1 ½ oz Vodka
-1/2 ox black raspberry liquor
-dash of pineapple juice
-Raspberries or Pineapples for garnish

Pour your ingredients into a cocktail shaker filled with ice. Shake well and strain into a chilled cocktail glass.

Where to find the perfect Hollywood Cocktail:

Andaz West Hollywood:
The Andaz West Hollywood is committed to bringing you the latest in style, service and high-touch innovation. Find yourself with a front row seat to one of the most famed walkways in the world, and the most exciting night life that lasts from Sunset till sunrise.

The Mosaic Hotel Beverly Hills:
If you’re looking for the ultimate boutique experience in Beverly Hills, you are sure to find it at the Mosaic Hotel. The Mosaic has 49 guest rooms and five suites, and is right off of Rodeo Drive. You won’t get closer to Beverly Hills’ best shopping and attractions than here!

Thompson Beverly Hills:
Also next to Rodeo Drive is the gorgeous Thompson Beverly Hills, a lovely boutique hotel of 107 rooms. This hotel is a perfect example of Californian modernism design, and is actually home to the West Coast’s first Bond St Sushi Restaurant.

The Sunset Tower Hotel:
Frank Sinatra, Elizabeth Taylor and Marilyn Monroe all stayed at The Sunset Tower Hotel, and once you go there, you’ll see why. This classically Hollywood Art Deco hotel is spacious, boasts excellent views and has a fabulous spa – perfect for the diva in each and every one of us.

Terranea Resort:
Located just south of LA near Hollywood is the Terranea Resort which is dramatically poised above the Pacific Ocean and known as California’s premier coastal resort destinations. And this Christmas, come and spend your holiday at the resort and enjoy either a Christmas Eve or Christmas Day brunch for two included in their “Our First Christmas Together” package.

Montage Beverly Hills:
Ideal of business or leisure travelers, Montage Beverly Hills is just steps from Rodeo Drive (where some of the world’s best boutiques can be found). We love the Spanish Colonial exterior, and we know you will too.

SLS Hotel at Beverly Hills:
Furnished with designs by legendary architect Philippe Starck, lovers of fine design will really enjoy the SLS Hotel at Beverly Hills. Every detail has been taken care of at this lovely hotel.

The Huntley Hotel:
If a dramatic view is what you’re looking for during your stay in Santa Monica, The Huntley Hotel may be for you. Whether it’s the mountains, the city or the ocean, this hotel is the ultimate retreat in Southern California.

Sunset Marquis:
If you’ve always wanted to stay right near the Sunset Strip, then Sunset Marquis is definitely the place for you. Guests will enjoy spacious suites, luxurious amenities and some true Hollywood charm at this lovely hotel in West Hollywood.

Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel:
Famed for being the birthplace of the Academy Awards the Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel is now the place where old Hollywood and young Hollywood entwine. Complete with a Marilyn Monroe suite, gable and Lombard penthouse, an historical lobby with library bar, poolside cabana and 24 hour room service and concierge makes this a place where your every desire will surely be met.

Palihouse Holloway:
Choose from 36 spacious guest residence and make yourself at home in the heart of West Hollywood at the Palihouse Holloway. Surrounded by unparalleled nightlife, shopping, restaurants, beaches and cultural venues makes this luxury hotel the perfect base from which to explore.

Mondrian:
Capturing the quintessential California lifestyle of glamour, fantasy along with causal living and a love for the outdoors is the Mondrain located on the world famous Sunset Strip. Each guest room has fully equipped kitchens, large work desks, oversized bathrooms and elegant furnishings all inspired by a sense of uncomplicated sophistication.

Chateau Marmont:
Originally built in 1929, Chateau Marmont is a legendary castle-like hotel sitting high above the Sunset Strip and has played host to countless celebrities. Each of the sixty-three rooms, cottages and bungalows are homes of their own and have a gracious scale from a long gone era.

During my recent trip to Washington, DC, I had the pleasure of experiencing The Ritz Carlton Georgetown. This luxury hotel is located in DC’s most fashionable neighborhood just steps away fine shops, restaurants and bars.

From the moment I arrived at the hotel, I was immediately impressed with the quick and efficient personable service. It was a chilly evening in Washington, DC, but the hotel’s lobby made me feel instantly homey and warm.

Guests were seated comfortably on large overstuffed chairs enjoying S’mores by a crackling fireplace. I later discovered, during the winter season they have S’mores served every night at 6pm. They even have a “S’moremelier” (an expert on S’mores) on site.

Once I arrived to my room, I was even more pleased. Plush furnishings, a king sized feather bed of heaven with 400 thread count Egyptian Cotton sheets and a deep full size bathtub. Not to mention generous and luxurious bathroom amenities to boot!

The rest of my trip was a busy whirlwind of meetings and getting back to the hotel to cozy up and unwind was well anticipated. On the last night of my stay, I dined at their restaurant Fahrenheit, which proved to be quite the gastronomical experience! The seafood salad was unbelievable.

Later in the evening I headed downstairs to the lounge, appropriately named Degrees. This place is definitely a hotspot for after work cocktails. The Kir fraise made with Stoli Razberi, Chambord and Chandon, was delightful!

My experience at The Ritz Carlton Georgetown was wonderful. I highly recommend it- whether you’re traveling for business or leisure, this boutique hotel has it all covered.

Kiwi Collections luxury online magazine Wow Travel has just put together a new photo feature. This is just a small sampling of some of the hotels beautiful landscapes.

Make sure to check out the full feature titled In the Middle of No Where.

Longitude 131 near the famous Ayers Rock in northern Australia

Amanpulo on Pamalican Island, Philippines

Cave B Inn at Sagecliffe along the Columbia River in Quincy, Washington, United States

Wilson Island at the Great Barrier Reef in beautiful Australia

Alila Villas Hadahaa Maldives in Gaffu Alif Atoll, Maldives

Ulusaba Private Game Reserve on the Sabi Sand Reserve, South Africa

You may be familiar with the race track Churchill Downs. It’s the home of the world famous Kentucky Derby in Louisville, Kentucky.

Horse lovers should be excited to know, live racing at Churchill Downs will begin again Sunday November 1, 2009 for their Fall Meet.  And the 21c Museum Hotel in is gearing up to make this event even more exciting.

Gather up twenty of your closest friends and get ready to cheer on the ponies at the Churchill Downs. If you book ten or more rooms at the 21c you and your friends will get to enjoy complementary use of the exclusive 21c’s Jockey Club Suite during the Fall Meet! (And in case you have more than twenty friends, suite occupancy for this package is limited to only twenty-four guests).

At only a 12 minute drive from the hotel to the track, it shouldn’t be too difficult to organize your buddies and get down there to place your bets.

Off the track, just staying at the 21c is an event in and of itself. Located in the heart of Museum Row and downtown Louisville, the hotel is at the center of culture, activity and artistic expression. The 21c Museum Hotel also engages with the locals and its guests in hosting a variety of cultural events which are ongoing throughout the year.

Make sure to book your stay at the 21c now as this offer is subject to limited availability. Guests are subject to all rules and restrictions at Churchill Downs and food, beverage and gratuity at the track are not included.

Who doesn’t love a good drink? And if you are a Kentucky native chances are your drink of choice is bourbon. Bourbon is America’s whiskey, and takes its name from Bourbon County in Kentucky. Since the 18th century Bourbon has been produced and currently it’s estimated that 95% of the world’s Bourbon is aged and distilled in Kentucky.

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This year for the month of September, 21c Museum Hotel is honoring its bourbon heritage and celebrating with the area’s top bourbon connoisseurs featuring tastings of bourbons from across the Commonwealth.

Located in beautiful downtown Louisville, Kentucky, the 21c Museum Hotel in a category all on its own. Dressed in contemporary art from living artists which are exhibited throughout its galleries and public spaces, this hotel not only graces you with great Southern-style hospitality but is sure to leave you inspired.

All the rooms in this luxury boutique hotel are eloquently designed and fit with all of the best amenities to suite every guest’s needs. Recently, 21c also made Conde Nast Traveler’s Gold List as one of the “world’s best places to stay”.

Along with luxury and comfort, 21c Museum Hotel is host to many cultural happenings for both its valued guests and the Louisville locals. From a Monthly Poetry Series which is running till the end of November 2009, or their Sunday Series: Cabaret Life Drawing and Yoga with Art sessions running till the end of September 2009, this month’s celebration takes the cake…..or should we say, the bourbon.

Every Thursday during the Month of September 21c Museum Hotel is celebrating its bourbon heritage and invites guests to join them at their bar and sample some of the world’s best bourbons. Tasting’s are as follows:

Thursday, September 3rd: Chris Morris, Master Distiller, Woodford Reserve
Woodford Reserve
Proof Special Selection Woodford Reserve
Old Forester
Old Forester Signature
Old Forester Birthday Bourbon

Thursday, September 10th: Drew Kulsveen, Kentucky Bourbon Distillers
Vintage 17yr, 21yr, 23 yr.
Vintage Rye 21yr
Rowan’s Creek
Noah’s Mill
Kentucky Vintage
Pure Kentucky XO
Johnny Drum Private Stock
Old Bardstown Estate Bottled
Willett

Thursday, September 17th: Preston Van Winkle, Van Winkle
Van Winkle Family Bourbons

Thursday, September 24th: Jennifer Arnette. Jefferson’s Reserve
Jefferson’s 8yr
Jefferson’s Reserve 15yr
Sam Houston

Also, if you book your stay during September 15 – 20, 2009, make sure to take part in The Kentucky Bourbon Festival in Bardstown, known as the bourbon capital of the world, and only about an hour drive from the hotel, making it a perfect day trip. The festival’s events feature music, arts from local artisans and craftsmen, country-western dancing and, of course, the guest of honor: bourbon.

We’ve also written about the 21c Museum hotel on the Jetsetter earlier this year. Make sure to check out why the 21c Museum Hotel is Hot All Year Round and read about the recent 21c’s 4th Annual Pajama Party.

Take off your shoes, turn off your blackberry and head south to one of Miami’s best hotels the Gansevoort South. Take advantage of their special Chill out Package starting from only $270 and toss out the to-do list. Pampering yourself with a little R & R has never felt so good!

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Knows as one of Florida’s best luxury hotels, Gansevoort South Hotel Spa Residences brings the pulse of New York to the heart of South Beach. Featuring a blend of modern and dramatic design the hotel’s 334 spacious guest rooms sport spectacular views of the ocean, bay and shining city skyline.

To help you completely let go and relax, the popular David Barton brings his gym and first ever spa product to Gansevoort South. Complete with yoga and pilates studios, a luxurious steam room and an extensive list of massage and body treatments are available to help fully rejuvenate and beautify your body and mind.

If lounging by the pool is more your style, be sure to experience Gansevoort South’s Plunge. At 18 stories above the ocean, this adult only tropical playground features a 110-foot long swimming pool, poolside lounges and cabanas and awe inspiring city and ocean views. Make sure to also check out their Gansevoort Beach Club and their Gansevoort Pool Plaza that features an inviting infinity-edge ocean view pool.

Sometimes chilling out requires plenty of food and cocktails, if this sounds like you, Gansevoort South has you covered with Asian inspired cuisine at the restaurant Philippe or perhaps dine pool side at  Pool Plaza which features ocean views of the sun drenched city.

Book your stay now and take advantage of Gansevoort South Hotel Spa Residences’ Chill out Package until October 31, 2009. The package includes deluxe accommodations starting from $270 and suites starting from $420, daily continental breakfast for two, VIP access and two cocktails at Plunge rooftop lounge and Daily access for two to David Barton Gym. Reservations are based on availability and a 2-3 nights stay required.

San Francisco, located along California’s Pacific coast is a wonderfully popular international tourist destination. The city is best known for its steep streets, chilly summer fog, the Golden Gate Bridge and beautiful panoramic views of the San Francisco bay and surrounding mountains. This welcoming, multicultural city is a perfect destination for visitors of all interests.

The city of San Francisco is divided up into various neighborhoods, each of which is worth exploring. The most well known is Ashbury, mostly associated with its strong ties with the hippie community during the Vietnam War full of unique shops and laid back cafes. Another popular area is SoMa, also known as South of Market Street which is the cultural heart beat of the city.

San Francisco has a reputation as being one of United States greenest cities and has a vast public transportation network. A great way to take advantage of this is to tour this city with a ride on their famous cable cars. You can board these anywhere you see a brown and white cable car stop sign.

Also known as one of the best walking cities in the country, after all of your exploring you will need a great place to fully relax and re-charge at one of the best hotels in San Francisco.

Campton Place Hotel, A Taj Hotel:

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The Campton Place Hotel is a great spot located in the city’s Union Square District and is a short distance from premier art galleries, renowned museums and the city’s best known stores and restaurants. This is also the perfect spot to check out some great Jazz and Blues clubs or get a delicious glass of wine.

The hotels is beautifully designed and has received multiple awards, including the title as the No. 1 hotel in San Francisco in 2007 and 2008 by Travel + Leisure, you are sure to experience the ultimate in comfort and luxury at its finest.

Hotel Vitale:

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Located along San Francisco’s Embarcadero water front is the exquisite luxury boutique hotel, Hotel Vitale. At this urban retreat you are sure to have a revitalizing stay. Their onsite spa is complete with an outdoor roof-top soaking tub, dramatic terraces and their signature restaurant and bar, Americanao.

Food lovers will also get a special treat; Hotel Vitale is also located directly across from the historic Ferry Building Marketplace, San Francisco’s gourmet destination.

St. Regis, San Francisco:

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Newly opened, the St. Regis, San Francisco is nestled in the SoMa area of the city and enjoys an artful address. The museum of the African Diaspora is conveniently located within the hotel and just next door is the renowned San Francisco Museum of Modern Art.

All guest rooms are beautiful designed creating a tranquil haven of comfort and elegance featuring picturesque downtown views. If you book your stay this summer, be sure to take advantage of their best summer rates, if you stay three nights, receive your third night with their complements.

Set on the eastern slopes of the Cascades, along the Cle Elum River in Washington, Suncadia Resort offers the ultimate luxury mountain experience.  This resort is perfect for a both people seeking a relaxing getaway or people trying to fulfill their sense of adventure. And from now until September 30th you can take advantage of Suncadia’s Summer Adventure Package. When you book your stay at the lodge, inn or rental home you will receive a $100 resort credit.

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There is probably no place on earth I’d rather be than in the Pacific Northwest and there is simply no place like Suncadia Resort. Being the perfect mountain retreat and one of the best hotels in Washington State, it offers three distinctive choices in hotel, inn and home lodging. Whatever your plans are, you can look forward to the most individualized and private retreat experience at this gem of a resort.

Suncadia is also known as an eco-friendly resort. One of the big draws people have for coming here is that concern for the natural environment has been an integral part of Suncadia’s vision. Through thoughtful design guidelines, preservation of 80 percent open space, extensive use of native vegetation and a pedestrian-friendly trail system, Suncadia has become the largest three-star Built Green resort community in Washington State (the highest level of certification available).

Golf lovers will get a special treat.

Suncadia’s features two award winning 18 hole golf courses and that are both incredibly designed and are surrounded by the rolling pine forests and the towering granite peaks of the Cascades. Also offered is a practice range, private instruction, and golf clinics for all ages.

Sucadia Resort is also the ideal grounds for adventure. There are many activities such as horseback riding, rafting and kayaking, bike pavilion rentals, boat rentals or fly fishing excursions on the Yakima River.

After a long day of activity make sure to rest up at Suncadia’s Glade Spring Spa or enjoy a local glass of wine at one of their restaurants featuring locally grown organic produce. It will be a perfect end to a perfect day.

From now until September 30th make sure to take advantage of their Summer Adventure Package that allows you to receive a $100 resort credit when booking your stay!

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.

My travels took me to all the way to Las Vegas, Nevada where I had the pleasure of staying at the luxurious Wynn Las Vegas.

The experience begin at the exclusive private entrance for the Tower Suites — the hotel’s luxury resort accommodations.  I found the private registration area by way of a magestic atrium adorned with colorful mosaic walkways, lush greenery and koi fish ponds.

Entering the Salon Suite foyer, I had to resist the urge to relax — there was a private massage room waiting for me!

The suite itself, high up on the 33rd floor, boasted an incredible view of the Las Vegas strip. But, the view wasn’t the best part of the room. The chic living area was a great entertaining space because of the wet bar and dining area. Off the bedroom was a huge marble bathroom and dressing area. And, of course, all of the art in the room was from Steve Wynn’s personal collection.

One of the best things about Wynn Las Vegas is the shopping. There are literally dozens of designer shops there. You can even visit one of the highest grossing Ferrari boutiques in the world.

In fact, you never actually have to leave the hotel because there’s an endless amount of entertainment, from golf at the only course on the Strip, to the Casino, to seeing Le Rêvein the hotel’s intimate aqua theatre.

But the real question, of course, is the nightlife. How was it? Incredible!  There’s a lot of ways to spend your evening in style. You can enjoy a cocktail at one of the lounges, or be seen at the 12,000 square foot Tryst nightclub…but, after a night out and a full day of shopping, I chose to escape to the Spa for the Good Luck Ritual Massage, one of the Wynn Las Vegas’ signature treatments.

After that, it was off to dinner. The elegant dining room at the Bartolotta leads down a marble staircase with a view of the lagoon outside. The seafood is flown in daily from the Mediterranean and it is brought to your table for you to view while the waiter explains the expansive menu.

They’re all about customizing your meal to your tastes and desires. It’s quite a production. I ended up having the Sicilian langoustines, seared sea scallops and a delightful vegetable risotto.

If all of this isn’t enough, Wynn is opening a new signature resort on Dec. 22, 2008: Encore at Wynn Las Vegas.  I had a great experience at the Wynn, and can’t wait for my next Vegas excursion.