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Foreman_tea.jpgPeter Foreman is the Director of Sales & Marketing at Le Méridien Kuala Lumpur and thelobby.com's expert on Asia.

Working at Le Meridien and being a coffee lover, I enjoy our global partnership with Illy.   However, on my last trip to Singapore, I discovered TWG Tea at the newly opened iconic shopping centre - ION Orchid, a 10 to 15 minute walk from the St. Regis Singapore

TWG Tea was established in Singapore a few years back to celebrate the island's history as a trading post for tea. This was made official in the year 1837 when Singapore's Chamber of Commerce was established. Today, this quaint little tea salon serves over 800 different teas from India, China, Japan, Burma, Brazil as well as your favorite classics; 12 different Earl Grey styles and over 100 exclusive blends such as London-Singapore Tea and Weekend in Moscow Tea.  Open daily from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m, service is quick, efficient and the staff are knowledgeable about the different teas on offer.  Tables are clothed with crisp white linen and the tea is served in stylish tea pots with elegant cups and saucers.  For morning tea, I had a Gentlemen's Earl Grey (S$10 / US $7.20) and a Crème Brulee infused with Darjeeling Phuguri Tea (S$10/ US $7.20).

My tip: Escape the Singapore heat with an Iced Tea; try Lemon Bush from South Africa; (S$10.50 / US$8) or enjoy some TWG tea when you're staying at the St. Regis Singapore, which also serves the tea to guests.

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W Retreat & Spa Vieques Photo New.jpgThe island of Vieques is one of the most breathtaking places in the Caribbean, with miles of pristine beaches, verdant forests, and coral reefs teeming with life. It's also now home to the first W Retreat in the Western Hemisphere/North America, the W Retreat & Spa - Vieques Island. This stylish new destination will open its doors on March 25, 2010, treating guests to the ultimate in luxury and indulgence under the tropical sun. With 157 luxurious guest rooms, Whatever/Whenever service, and breathtaking views in all directions, every visit has the potential to transform body, mind, and spirit. As an added enticement to check it out, the hotel is offering a special Insider Access package, with rates staring at $249 a night. Spend your days frolicking in the surf, chilling out on the beach, or indulging in a treatment at Spa Chakra, with more than 60 health and beauty therapies to help you feel your best. And when the sun dips below the sea, make your way to miX On The Beach, Alain Ducasse's world-class restaurant, where Latin-Caribbean flavors take on French sensibilities in an oceanfront atmosphere. It's island life at its finest. Visit here for more information or to book your stay at this exquisite new Caribbean destination.

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Starpick the Westin Arlington Gateway

Thursday March 11, 2010

Westin Arlington Gateway Outside Photo.jpgArlington, Virginia is located a stone's throw from Washington, D.C.'s many museums and cultural landmarks, but it has plenty of attractions of its own that are worth exploring. If you've never taken the time to check out the many faces of Arlington, here's the chance. The Westin Arlington Gateway is one of this week's participating Starpicks properties, with last-minute rates of at least 20% off regular rates for stays during the next two weekends, so it won't take much to find yourself exploring one of Virginia's most fascinating towns. The Westin Arlington Gateway is one of the newest hotels in the Washington, D.C. area, with 336 comfortable guest rooms that feature the Heavenly Bed and Heavenly Bath and a host of amenities. Spend your day visiting the U.S. Marine Corps War Memorial, touring the Pentagon, or catching a few rays at Gravelly Point Park. Back at the hotel, you can get in a workout at the 24-hour fitness center, go for a swim in the indoor heated pool, or soak away your cares in the Jacuzzi. Enjoy a divine dinner at Pinzimini, an Italian steakhouse, followed by a cocktail at Pinzimini Bar, and you'll promise to return to this charming area before long. Of course, the Westin Arlington Gateway is just one of dozens of Starpicks properties this week, so check the list for the destination of your dreams.

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Sheraton Mountain Vista Villas Avon Lifestyle.jpgThe town of Avon, Colorado lies at the base of Beaver Creek Mountain, and it's the place to be for all manner of activities in and around the Vail Valley. If you're itching for a little mountain time right now, here's a great opportunity. The Sheraton Mountain Vista Villas, Avon / Vail Valley is one of this week's participating Starpicks properties, with last-minute rates of at least 20% off regular rates for stays during the next eight weeks. This luxurious four-season resort has everything you need to feel relaxed, refreshed, and reinvigorated, with three different types of villas furnished with the latest amenities, as well as kitchens, separate dining areas, and breakfast bars. You'll be ready for anything, whether you prefer skiing, sleigh riding and horseback riding or hot air ballooning, fine dining and gondola rides. Spend your day snowshoeing through forested trails, or feel the rush of downhill skiing on the surrounding slopes. When it's time for dinner, indulge in several world class eateries nearby, including Vin 48 Restaurant Wine Bar, where Chef Charles Hays offers a rustic American menu of small and large plates, and Juniper, with dishes like beef tenderloin with smoked trout brandade, and Colorado rack of lamb with baba ghanoush ravioli. It's a perfect end to an active day. New Starpicks properties are posted every Tuesday, so check the list for the latest deals.

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Westin Calgary Room Renovation Photo.jpgThe Westin Calgary is better than ever, having recently completed a top-to-bottom renovation that breathed new life into the Calgary institution. The $35 million project began in 2006 with the hotel's business guest rooms, and continued over the next four years with renovations to the the lobby, restaurant, lounge, meeting space, and the remaining guest rooms. To celebrate its new look, the hotel is offering special Renovation Packages that give you the opportunity to indulge in a fabulous new room for a great rate. You'll enjoy a renovated corner suite featuring plasma television, distinctive carpeting and wall coverings, a balcony with views of the city, and of course, the Westin Heavenly Bed and Heavenly Bath. Rates start at just $199 for weekends and $299 for weekdays and are good for stays through June 6, 2010. Calgary's a great destination for a springtime escape, with attractions ranging from the Calgary Zoo - featuring Kamala, the painting elephant - to the Glenbow Museum, one of Western Canada's largest museums of history, ethnology, and science. Visit here or call 1-866-716-8101 and mention promo code RNO to book this exciting offer.

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Westin Heavenly Bed Photo 8.jpgWestin has long been committed to promoting wellness on the road with innovative environments and amenities that help travelers feel their best. Now it's easier than ever to take home some of Westin's wellness-focused products with the opening of the Westin Wellness Store on Amazon.com. It's the first hotel-branded storefront on Amazon.com, and it boasts a carefully-curated collection of wellness focused products, including merchandise from like-minded brands such as Gaiam, Kate's Paperie, Tea Forté and Riedel. The digital storefront also has some of Westin's most beloved products, like the iconic Westin Heavenly Bed (pictured), Heavenly Bath collection, and white tea scented candles and diffusers. To celebrate this historic launch, Westin is offering a $100 Amazon gift card to guests who register and stay twice at a Westin hotel in the U.S. or Canada by May 13, 2010. SPG members need simply to register by April 30, 2010, and stay by May 13, 2010, arriving Sunday to Thursday, to qualify for this offer. For more information or to register, visit here and take that unique Westin experience home with you.

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Sheraton South Padre Island Beach Hotel Photo.jpgIf you're as sick of winter as we are, then Spring Break can't come soon enough. Well, now is a great time to take an early Spring Break getaway, because the Sheraton South Padre Island Beach Hotel & Condominiums is offering a special Family Vacation on the Beach Package that will make your first dose of sunshine this year all the sweeter. Book by March 4 for stays March 5 - 28, 2010 and enjoy family-friendly perks like a deluxe ocean-view room, breakfast each day at the Beachside Bar and Grille, two bottles of water daily, free sunscreen, free internet access, one in-room movie, 50% off valet parking, and more. You can even enjoy discounted water sports at Sonny's Beach Service, including parasailing and banana boats - a perfect way to start vacation season off on a high note. This stylish destination on the south Texas shoreline boasts gorgeous beaches, breathtaking views of the Gulf of Mexico, and the largest swimming pool in South Texas, including a swim-up bar. Spend your day searching for sea shells, playing volleyball, or sailing on the high seas. And when evening comes, retreat to the hotel's Beachside Grille, where international cuisine is served in an atmosphere of casual elegance. Rates start at just $286 per night (up to four per room) with a two-night minimum length of stay. To make a reservation, visit here or call 1-866-716-8134 and ask for rate plan SPFAM.

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Starpick the W New York - The Court

Wednesday March 3, 2010

W New York  the Court Typewriter Detail.jpgNew York City. No matter how many times you visit, you can always find something surprising. If it's been a while since you've felt the energy of Manhattan, consider an impulsive late-winter getaway. The W New York - The Court is one of this week's participating Starpicks properties, with last-minute rates of at least 20% off regular rates for stays during the next two weekends. This stylish hotel is located in the Murray Hill district of 1920's brownstones, walking distance from the United Nations, New York Public Library, and a few thousand other great Gotham attractions. Spend your day shopping on Fifth Avenue, browsing the innovative art at the New Museum on the Bowery, or sampling the world's best knishes at Yonah Schimmel on the Lower East Side. Back at the hotel, kick off your night on the town with a drink at WETBAR, the hotel's signature lounge, where expertly-prepared cocktails are served in an atmosphere of warmth and sophistication. Then, make your way out into the city, with its endless possibilities - or just settle back with your martini, savoring a relaxing end to a perfect day. New Starpicks properties are posted every Tuesday, so check the list for the latest deals.

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Westin Puerto Vallarta Room Photo.jpgHow does a last-minute getaway to sunny Puerto Vallarta sound right about now? The Westin Resort & Spa, Puerto Vallarta is one of this week's participating Starpicks properties, with last-minute rates of at least 20% off regular rates for stays during the next eight weeks, so it won't take much to find yourself on a Pacific beach feeling your worries melt away like the ice in your margarita. This spectacular resort is located on 21 tranquil acres, with swaying palm trees and nearly 900 feet of private beach. Spend the day indulging in your every tropical fantasy, from a round of golf at a nearby course to a few hours lounging in an oceanfront pergola at Las Pergolas Beach Club. Take a dip in one of two outdoor pools, or enjoying a pampering massage treatment at The Spa at the Westin Puerto Vallarta, which has seven serene indoor treatment rooms, an oceanfront pergola for outdoor massages, whirlpools, saunas, and hydrotherapy facilities. When the sun dips beneath the horizon, you can savor some expertly-made local specialties at El Palamar Restaurant, or try the inventive fusion cuisine at Arrecifes Seafood & Steakhouse, a beachfront restaurant where the view is just as exciting as the food. Of course, the Westin Resort & Spa, Puerto Vallarta is just one of dozens of Starpicks properties this week, so check the list for the destination of your dreams.

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Le Westin Montreal.jpgThere might still be a nip in the air, but you won't find a warmer city than Montreal, where the only thing hotter than your morning espresso is the sizzling nightlife. If you're in need of a few days of rest and recreation, consider a stay at Le Westin Montreal in the not too distant future. It's a great time for a getaway, because SPG members can earn 5,000 bonus Starpoints for every stay at this luxurious hotel in the heart of the city. There's nothing to it, simply book a stay and you'll get 5,000 bonus Starpoints credited to your account four to six weeks after the qualifying stay - Starpoints that can add up to great rewards like free stays, airline tickets, and even one-of-a-kind experiences from the moments.com auction site. And you'll love Le Westin Montreal, which occupies a stylish 23-story tower and three beautifully restored historic buildings just steps from Old Montreal. Spend your day wandering the winding, cobblestone streets and then retreat to the hotel for a meal at Gazette, where Chef Paul Little serves inventive dishes like Halibut and crispy rock shrimp with onion and porcini risotto and Brome duck confit with foie gras cracklings. Montreal life is sweet indeed. Visit here for more information or to make a reservation.

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