If you’re the outdoorsy type, you’ll no doubt find a home away from home in Tampa, which in 2008 was ranked as the 5th best city for the outdoors by Forbes magazine. You’ll feel immersed in the wilderness as Tampa features an estimated 7.8 million trees and close to 200 verdant parks. Sunbathers will appreciate plenty of sugar white Gulf Coast beach frontage at St. Pete Beach and Indian Rocks Beach, both of which are located roughly an hour away in Pinellas County.

Sports fans rejoice: Tampa is part of the Tampa Bay metropolitan area, home to the aptly-named Tampa Bay Lightening, Tampa Bay Rays, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Tampa Bay Derby Darlins, University of South Florida Bulls and University of Tampa Spartans. The city is well-steeped in history, entertainment and the arts, featuring the Tampa Bay Performing Arts Center, Tampa Museum of Art and Tampa Bay History Center. What’s more, nightlife is alive and well in downtown Tampa, where travelers can find a number of lively clubs and bars. Opened to the public in 1982, the Museum of Science & Industry features one of 250 IMAX Dome theatres found in the world – the only one in Florida to boast a dome screen.

Admirers of wildlife can venture to the Lowry Park Zoo, which features more than 2,000 animals, educational shows and hands-on exhibits. Some of the most daring roller coasters in the world are found nearby at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, where everything from authentic handicrafts to up-close animal encounters create an authentic African experience. Additionally, the annual Gasparilla Pirate Festival takes place along Bayshore Boulevard and runs through downtown Tampa.

In the heart of Tampa Bay lies Sailport Waterfront Suites on Tampa Bay, the gulf coast city’s only all-waterfront, all-suite hotel. The property boasts spacious suites with fully-equipped kitchens and balconies that afford great bay views. In addition, travelers can unwind in the heated swimming pool or practice their volleyball serve in the recreation area. Here’s yet another nice touch: Breakfast, newspapers, shuttle service, covered parking and internet access are all complimentary.

For a dose of history and plenty of tranquility, visit the recently renovated Safety Harbor Resort and Spa. The 2,000-year-old natural mineral springs that run directly beneath the luxury resort, which spans 22 acres of Tampa Bay coastline, were first discovered by explorers in search of the Fountain of Youth. So treasured are these springs that they’re used for spa treatments and pumped into three on-site swimming pools. Rooms are fitted with comfortable furniture, and many bring balconies or patios that offer city views.

Fitness and sports enthusiasts will love Saddlebrook Resort and Spa, which comprises a half-million gallon swimming pool, two 18-hole Arnold Palmer signature golf courses, two volleyball courts, a basketball court, fitness center and sports field. Once it’s time to recharge the batteries, travelers can avail themselves of a 7,000 square-foot Spa, featuring 12 private treatment rooms, a couple’s room with soaking tub, whirlpools, saunas and courtyard terrace.

Whether you’re a theme park junkie, sports fanatic, history buff, or nature lover, Tampa offers something for everyone.

Party in Miami

Known for its pearly white sand beaches and booming nightlife scene, everything about South Beach oozes fun and vibrancy. Fashion shoots and star-studded events are standard here, thus earning Miami a reputation as an oasis for the fashion forward. Shopping options are endless, from the popular Dolphin Mall in Doral to fine boutiques on Ocean Drive to a wide collection of stylish designer stores in the heart of the Collins Avenue Fashion District. Then there’s scores of chic, Art Deco hotels nestled on South Beach, each within minutes of the city’s hippest attractions. Among them are the trendy Whitelaw Hotel;  Hotel Chelsea, an Art Deco fixture since 1936; the Beach Paradise Hotel, whose design was inspired by Spanish mansions of old; and the Deauville Beach Resort, which over the years has attracted the likes of celebrities like Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin.

Let Loose in Los Angeles

I’d be remiss to discuss Los Angeles shopping and nightlife without highlighting Beverly Hills and West Hollywood. The former includes world-famous Rodeo Drive, a shopping district famous for its upscale boutiques and shops. Passing through West Hollywood is the Sunset Strip, an area where colorful and expansive billboards are easy to find, as are various restaurants, nightclubs, and – if you’re lucky enough – a celebrity or two. Like Miami, Los Angeles is a playground for beachgoers as thousands flock to Venice Beach, among the city’s other sizzling beaches, to catch some rays or hang ten. Hotel Angeleno – a Joie de Vivre  Hotel – and Hotel Beverly Terrace, two boutique properties in close proximity to Beverly Hills and Hollywood, make great places to unwind after a day of non-stop action in SoCal.

Live it up in Las Vegas

Dazzling lights and an ever-festive ambiance make Las Vegas a popular vacation hot spot year year-round, and spring break is certainly no exception. With scores of famous casinos, towering hotels, fine shops and renowned restaurants, it’s no surprise the city has been dubbed “The Entertainment Capital of the World.” Most of the world-famous Strip’s best shows and attractions are found on the resort properties that line it. Take Stratosphere Casino, Hotel and Tower. Aside from boasting the largest observation tower in the United States, it proves that Florida and California are far from the only places for theme park thrills. Guests can enjoy heart-pounding rides including X-Scream and Insanity, both of which propel you anywhere from 27 to 64 feet over the edge of the Tower. Racing aficionados will love Speed – The Ride, a state-of-the-art rollercoaster at Sahara Hotel and Casino’s Nascar Cafe Entertainment Center.  If your idea of fun involves getting wet, guests should not miss Golden Nugget Hotel & Casino, winner of the AAA Four-Diamond Award each year since 1977. The Tank is a $30 million complex featuring a shark tank, private cabanas and an exhilarating 3-story waterslide.

Tour NYC’s Stellar Attractions

Though New York City likely won’t sit atop your list of top beach destinations anytime soon, it nonetheless has enough attractions to keep travelers, no matter their age, well-entertained over the course of spring break. Catch a New York Knicks game at Madison Square Garden, photograph the Statue of Liberty, watch a show on Broadway, tour the Museum of Modern Art, spend an afternoon unwinding at Central Park, or delight your palate at one of Chinatown’s many fine restaurants. Your options for things to do and places to see are endless. Within walking distance of these attractions is the Belvedere Hotel, an Art Deco style hotel that features a state-of-the-art fitness center and popular Rodizio-style steakhouse, Churrascaria Plataforma. Other notable properties include Affinia Shelburne at Lexington Avenue and the Eastgate Tower Hotel in Murray Hill.

Explore Europe

If you’re looking to break out of your usual routine and travel abroad for spring break this year, you’ll find a wealth of fun things to do and landmark attractions to gawk at in Europe. Among travelers’ favorites: the Louvre and always-striking Eiffel Tower in Paris, the historic Coliseum in Rome, and Museumplein, a spacious square along which four museums are set in art-rich Amsterdam. If you’d rather be doing something a bit more lively, each city hosts tons of exciting events year-round and features plenty of nightclubs, shops, restaurants and sporting venues to suit different tastes. Properties to check out include Villa Eugenie and Tonic Hotel Du Louvre, two of Paris’ finest; Hotel Savoy and the Ripa Hotel, two four-star gems in Rome; and Grand Hotel Amrath, a 5-star masterpiece nestled in the historic heart of Amsterdam.

One of the area’s biggest draws is the historic Atlantic City Boardwalk, whose history stretches back to 1870 and along which travelers will find a host of shops, resorts, hotels, piers, arcades, museums and much more. (The Boardwalk is a whopping 60 feet wide and more than 4 feet long.) Among the Boardwalk’s notable attractions are the Atlantic City Aquarium, with more than eighteen exhibits including a 25,000 gallon tank; Gardner’s Basin, a bayside park boasting everything from fine dining to sightseeing cruises; and the Garden Pier, which now houses the Atlantic City historical museum and Art Center. The annual Atlantic City Food and Wine Festival – slated to run July 29 through August 1 – features four jam-packed days of events, celebrity appearances and food and wine tastings. Even if you’re not an aviation junkie, you’ll enjoy “Thunder Over the Boardwalk,” where impressive aerobatics maneuvers and flybys that reach up to 150,000 feet and as low as 50 feet over the water are sure to hold spectators spellbound.                            

Boardwalk Hall, declared a U.S. National Historic Landmark in 1987, once held one of The Beatles’ largest-ever concerts and currently hosts the Miss’d America Pageant and men’s college basketball games. Lovers of the outdoors can commune with nature at Wharton State Forest while boating buffs will feel right at home at the Farley Marina, whose 640 floating slips can accommodate yachts as long as 300 feet. If traveling from New York City to Atlantic City by train, travelers can take advantage of Atlantic City Express Service (ACES), which runs Friday through Sunday and takes passengers from New York’s Penn Station to Atlantic City Rail Terminal in less than 3 hours on average.

The Atlantic City Hilton Casino Resort is conveniently situated at the top of the Boardwalk. Though you’re more than 2,000 miles away from Las Vegas, you’ll feel immersed in the excitement Sin City gaming while inside the casino, which offers slot and table games including Blackjack, Poker and Roulette. The resort also has a state-of-the-art theater built to showcase the talents of such noted celebrities as KC & the Sunshine Band. Plus, the resort’s 13,000 square-foot Health Spa comprises a steam room, sauna, hot tub and indoor swimming pool.

Affording splendid views of the Atlantic City skyline are Travelodge Bayside and Comfort Bayside Inn. Though a little further from the world-famous Boardwalk – two and four miles away, respectively – both properties suit business travelers and pleasure seekers alike. Travelodge Bayside features an expansive outdoor swimming pool and meeting rooms, while Comfort Bayside Inn offers free Continental breakfast and complimentary shuttle service to the Tropicana Casino on Fridays and Saturdays.

Half a block from the Boardwalk and adjacent to the Tropicana lies the Ascot Motel, a great option for the budget-minded. The outdoor pool is open seasonally (Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend) and guests can start their day off right with complimentary coffee in the lobby. Though the property might be thinner on amenities than its hotel counterparts, that doesn’t mean travelers will have to sacrifice comfort, let alone good service – the front desk is open 24 hours a day. The AAA-rated La Renaissance, meanwhile, is synonymous with family-friendly. Its One and Two Bedroom Suites, all with balconies, feature separate living and dining areas and are spacious enough to sleep anywhere from four to six people.

Though New York City may still lay claim to the title of most popular destination in the Mid-Atlantic, there is no denying Atlantic City holds its own as a place where couples and families alike can lap up a profusion of great attractions.

New York – Top of the Tower Restaurant: Prepare to be swept away by a majestic New York skyline while at this rooftop restaurant inside the historic Beekman Tower Hotel – a perfect choice for fans of Art Deco architecture. Located on the 26th floor, the hotel’s menu features small plates such as Seared Sea Scallops and Crispy Calamari as well as big dishes including Oven Roasted Chicken paired with mashed potatoes. Open for breakfast and dinner daily, the restaurant’s inviting ambiance makes it a popular meeting spot among vacationing couples and business travelers alike. What’s more, excellent service provided by the restaurant staff tops off what many call the perfect New York City dining experience.

Orlando – The Plantation Room: What could top a AAA-Four Diamond hotel chock full of great amenities including a lakeside outdoor pool, Grand Bohemian Gallery and evening entertainment? One that has a AAA-Four Diamond restaurant, of course, like the boutique Celebration Hotel nestled in the heart of Celebration. Featuring hand-cut Stock Yars Angus Beef steaks and premium cuts of pork, all cooked under the watchful and expert eye of Executive Chef Zach Martin, The Plantation Room is nothing short of a meat lover’s paradise. Delectable steakhouse salads and Florida seafood entrees round out the contemporary menu, and guests can also take advantage of the restaurant’s eclectic wine list.

Las Vegas – Top of the World Restaurant: Ever thought about elevating your taste buds while you yourself are elevated 800 feet above the ground? That might seem a bit far-fetched, but not if you happen to stop by Stratosphere Casino, Hotel and Towers‘ Top of the World Restaurant. Awarded “Best Gourmet Room” by the Las Vegas Review-Journal, the restaurant revolves 360º every 80 minutes, ensuring you take in picturesque views of Vegas, the Strip and the surrounding valley. From savory steaks and mouth-watering seafood to a wide assortment of delicious desserts including Banana Bread Pudding, this restaurant is a can’t-miss stop on the Strip. Reservations are required for dinner and recommended for lunch.

Boston – Meritage: The 5-star Boston Harbor Hotel’s location overlooking historic Boston Harbor at Rowes Wharf makes it a great place to relish expansive water views. But at Meritage The Restaurant, that’s not all travelers enjoy – let alone those with discriminating palates. Chef Daniel Bruce has perfected the art of seamlessly pairing the flavors infused in his cuisine with those found in hundreds of fine wines. Try delicious Caviar Topped Island Creek Oysters, or indulge in Pan Seared Diver Sea Scallops. Meritage was given the “Best in Service” distinction by Boston Globe Magazine (2007), named “Boston’s Best Romantic Restaurant” by The Improper Bostonian (2006), and rated #1 for Best Waterfront Dining by Citysearch (2005). Accolades racked up by this fine hotel go on and on.

Los Angeles – WEST Restaurant & Lounge: Housed inside Los Angeles’ Hotel Angeleno, set at the crossroads of Brentwood and Bel-Air, WEST offers a great spot to mingle with friends or convene with co-workers following a day spent shopping or in meetings. Open for breakfast and lunch Monday through Friday, and for dinner Monday through Sunday, the restaurant features a diverse range of lively music, from contemporary jazz to funk. The dining room has sophisticated lighting and comes furnished with lavish banquettes and marble tables.  Pair your entree – prime dry age steaks and traditional pastas are guest favorites here – with a glass of Italian or California wine while soaking up panoramic views of Los Angeles through floor-to-ceiling windows. Should you need it, WEST features more than 2,800 square feet of private reception and meeting space.

Whether you’re looking to start your day off right with a buffet breakfast, fuel up at lunch time, or wine and dine with your sweetheart on Valentine’s Day while staring into a perfect sunset, hotels are home to some of the finest restaurants out there. So next time you’re craving a good meal, don’t be so quick to look beyond the walls of your hotel; a gastronomic gem could be just a few floors down – or up!

It’s no surprise, moreover, that such water sport activities as scuba diving, canoeing, jet skiing, sailing and surfing are among the area’s most popular draws. Avid shoppers can revel in the hustle and bustle of Coastal Grand Mall, the largest mall in South Carolina. Park goers flock to Myrtle Beach State Park, whose Nature Center includes everything from live reptiles and saltwater aquariums to natural history displays. Set on 350 acres in the heart of Myrtle Beach, Broadway at the Beach is reputed as one of the area’s premier shopping and entertainment hot spots, as it is home to 17 restaurants, 3 theaters, several nightclubs and more than 100 specialty shops. If you’re a golf fan, you can practice your swing on a bevy of world-class golf courses found throughout the city; those traveling for business can always hold meetings at the Myrtle Beach Convention Center. Started in 1951, Myrtle Beach’s annual Sun Fun Festival is the longest running event in the city’s history and includes two days of free live entertainment, professional sporting events, concerts and kids’ activities.

Whether you’re planning a family vacation or romantic getaway, the Atlantic Breeze Ocean Resort offers all the comforts of home plus exquisite ocean views. However, one needn’t leave the property to enjoy a good swim: The resort features a large oceanfront pool, lazy river, glass enclosed indoor pool and kiddie pool.

If you have kids and a pet in tow, the oceanfront Ocean Park Resort should not be missed. One pet is allowed per room, and kids under 18 stay free. Travelers can sunbathe on one of two outdoor decks before cooling off in any of the resort’s indoor or outdoor pools.

Kids under 18 also stay free at the Patricia Grand Resort Hotel, located among such popular attractions as Broadway at the Beach, Nascar Speedpark, and Freestyle Music Park. Grand Central Station, the property’s brand new restaurant, offers the perfect place to please the senses. What better way to enjoy your steak or salad than while gazing out at the stunning Atlantic Ocean?

Plus, if you’re in town for business, you’ll want to check out the Bay Watch Resort & Conference Center, where you can take advantage of ample banquet space for meetings and events of all sizes. However, it’s not all work and no play here; a fitness center, game room, restaurant and lounge/sports bar are on site to keep you well entertained.

So what do you get when you couple superb oceanfront views with a wealth of recreation, entertainment and lodging options, minus all the congestion typically found in bigger cities?  Sounds like a memorable trip to Myrtle Beach indeed.

Algonquin Hotel – New York:  This famed hotel at 44th Street between Fifth and Sixth Avenues opened in 1902, and though it underwent renovations in 1998 and 2004, it has all but lost its original splendor. Designated a New York City landmark in 1987 and a literary landmark in 1996, the hotel’s Round Table Room is more than your typical New York City restaurant. It is named for the celebrated group of writers, critics and actors – among them were Dorothy Parker and Robert Benchley – who convened daily to dine, exchange ideas and play cards. You’ll also step back in time to a more glamorous era while in the Oak Room, which offers dinners and performances seasonally Tuesday through Thursday each week. With its white tablecloths, dark paneled walls and gleaming piano, the room was a launching pad for such noted celebrities as Harry Connick Jr. and Andrea Marcovicci. Guests can also grab a drink at the art-laden Blue Bar, a popular meeting spot among locals and travelers like, or inside the stately Lounge.

Westin St. Francis – San Francisco: Opening its doors in 1904, this Union Square hotel is imbued with early 20th century charm. Rooms feature ornate woodworking, high ceilings with shimmering chandeliers, and windows opening out onto the city by the bay. Each brings modern comforts including the hotel’s signature Westin Heavenly Beds and Westin Heavenly Baths. Travelers have their choice of several fine restaurants and well-equipped meeting rooms, and the on-site spa is sure to help ease away stress. The St. Francis is considered the center of the city’s literary, social and artistic life, much like the previously mentioned Algonquin Hotel is in New York City.

The Lenox Hotel - Boston: A member of Historic Hotels of America, The Lenox Hotel is yet another prime example of a property that fuses old-world charm with modern technology, this time in Boston’s historic Back Bay. What makes this 214-room boutique hotel unique, however, is that it’s among a select few to be named “1 of the 5 Greenest Luxury Hotels in America” by U.S. News & World Report and featured on Conde Nast Traveler’s “Green List.”  So what, you might ask, has earned The Lenox 12 consecutive AAA Four Diamond Awards since 1998? Maybe it’s everything from its opulent ballroom and sophisticated restaurants to its elegantly chic accommodations, bedecked with mahogany furniture, high ceilings with brass chandeliers and Italian marble bathrooms.

Luxury Suites at The Signature at MGM Grand in Las Vegas: You might be hard-pressed to believe that this 5 star property – rated the number one boutique hotel in Las Vegas – currently offers rooms below $100/night. Its three exclusive towers are non-gaming, making it a good option for travelers wishing to evade bustling casinos. Whether you’re in town for business or leisure, don’t miss the intimate swimming pool, state-of-the-art fitness center, well-equipped business center and spa. A sense of luxury permeates the suites as well, which have designer furnishings, spacious living areas and gleaming marble bathrooms.

The Metropole Hotel South Beach in Miami:  South Beach is synonymous with vibrant nightlife, ever-present sunshine, fine dining, turquoise waters that lap against pearly white sand, and – you guessed it – scores of chic hotels. Though it’s set in the very heart of the action on South Beach, a much more relaxed and subdued atmosphere awaits on the premises. The hotel’s private courtyard setting makes a great place to unwind after a day of shopping jaunts or meetings. Travelers who need to book or change flights can do so using the uniguest airline system in the lobby. Serving as a popular retreat for renowned celebrities like P Diddy and Heidi Klum, The Metropole also offers ample meeting space, stylish suites with 42″ inch plasma TVs and complimentary shuttle service to Miami International Airport.

No matter what your idea of the perfect luxury hotel is, one thing is for certain: If there’s anything better than enjoying 4 and 5 star luxury, it’s enjoying it a 2 or 3 star price.

Considering the city was founded as a mining town in 1858 – a time when it boasted little more than a few buildings and a collection of trees – it’s hard to picture Denver at present as having over 200 mountain and city parks, public golf courses, recreation centers and trail areas. And I’d be remiss not to mention how rich in culture the area is. The Denver Performing Arts Complex, where travelers can enjoy everything from cabaret shows to classic and contemporary plays, is the second largest performing arts center in the world behind Lincoln Center in New York City. Art and history aficionados alike can head to the city’s popular Civic Center which, along with its gardens, statues and fountains, comprises the Colorado History Museum, Denver Art Museum and the city’s Central Library.

Home to the Colorado Rockies (Major League Baseball), Denver Broncos (National Football League), Denver Nuggets (National Basketball Association) and Colorado Avalanche (National Hockey League), Denver enjoys a vibrant sports scene rivaling that of big-name cities like New York and Los Angeles. The Colorado Rapids of Major League Soccer (MLS) play inside Dick’s Sporting Goods Park in Commerce City, a northern suburb of Denver.

In case you’re wondering how the city fares as far as hotel accommodations, Denver-bound travelers are in for a real treat. There are several properties to choose from that are both budget-friendly and lie in close proximity to the city’s parks, cultural institutions and sporting venues.

Warwick Denver Hotel:  Having recently completed a $25 million re-design of its guestrooms and suites, meeting space and public areas, this hotel is conveniently located above Downtown Denver and within minutes of the 16th Street Mall, the Colorado Convention Center, Pepsi Center, State Capitol and other points of interest. The hotel offers complimentary transportation around the downtown area on a first-come, first-served basis.

Super 8 Denver Stapleton: Just a short drive from Denver International Airport is Super 8 Motel Stapleton, suiting business and leisure travelers alike with a fitness center, business center, heated outdoor pool and meeting facilities. The property is just three miles from Museum of Natural History and five miles away from The Denver Zoo, Downtown Denver, and Elitch Gardens Theme Park. You can practice your golf course at Aurora Hills Golf Course or root for the Denver Bronco’s football team at INVESCO Field at Mile High, both minutes away from the pet-friendly motel.

The Iverness Hotel: If your idea of the perfect vacation or business trip involves stunning mountain views, The Iverness Hotel fits the bill. This AAA Four Diamond property offers a 4,500 square-foot day spa, outdoor pools, fitness center, and five dining and entertainment venues.  Home to a challenging par-70 golf course, the hotel is set amidst a picture-perfect Rocky Mountain backdrop. Guests are within five minutes of Park Meadows Retail Resort, Comfort Dental Amphitheater, Brunswick Bowling and the Centennial Family Fun Center. Alternatively, you can stay in your room and enjoy fine mountain or golf course views. If you’re traveling for business, you can avail yourself of 60,000 square feet of flexible meeting and event space.

Hotel VQ: This hotel is only half a mile from Downtown Denver and steps away from INVESCO Field at Mile High. It boasts 169 guest rooms and 2,000 square feet of meeting and banquet facilities. To disconnect after a busy day, go up to the 14 floor, on which you’ll find the Skybox Grill and Sports Bar. Once inside, you might have a hard time deciding what it is that you enjoy most – the great food, unique decor, or wondrous views of the Denver skyline. Elitch Gardens Theme Park, Coors Field, the Pepsi Center, and the Downtown Aquarium are all within minutes of the hotel.

Quality Inn & Suites Denver International Airport: This property makes a great choice for travelers craving convenience. Located near the Denver International Airport, it offers complimentary breakfast and coffee, free wireless internet access and free 24-hour airport shuttle service. Also included are a hot tub, swimming pool, exercise room and on-site banquet and meeting rooms.

Depending on the season you might either find yourself hitting the slopes or enjoying a picnic at a park during the dog days of summer, thus making Denver a great year-round destination. Pack your bags and explore all this beautiful Mile High City has in store.

New York City: Before catching a Broadway show with your sweety, a leisurely stroll along postcard-ready Central Park sets a romantic tone for the day. If a romantic dinner is in the agenda, sparks will decidedly fly and palates will be delighted at the Top of the Tower Restaurant, housed inside the Art Deco Beekman Tower Hotel. The rooftop restaurant offers stunning views of the New York skyline, lending a panoramic backdrop for a wedding should you decide to exchange vows 26 floors high on Valentine’s Day. Rockefeller Center, Grand Central Station, and stores like Tiffany’s and Saks Fifth Avenue are minutes from the hotel, in case you wish to purchase jewelry or any other last-minute gifts.

San Francisco: Set sail into the sunset as you enjoy a romantic board ride under the scenic Golden Gate Bridge.  Only minutes away is Hotel Nikko, whose 24-Hour Health Club features stress-melting men’s and women’s saunas and steam rooms both you and your special someone can enjoy. When you and your Valentine have worked up an appetite, you can savor EuroJapanese cuisine in the on site Anzo restaurant, after which you can enjoy a relaxing Shiatsu massage.

Phoenix: Phoenix enjoys 300 days of sunshine each year, hence the reason why it’s been dubbed the Valley of the Sun. If you and your partner plan to venture to Arizona’s sun-drenched capital, you can stay at Royal Palms Resort and Spa, which lies at the base of Camelback Mountain. If peace, tranquility and a closeness to nature are what you’re after, look no further: The hotel is set amid lush courtyards and gardens, boasts a Four-star Spa, and features rooms loaded with old world charm. Your partner might also be happy to know that Royal Palms Resort and Spa is a proud member of the Historic Hotels of America National Trust for Historic Preservation.

San Diego: There is no shortage of attractions in San Diego, whose history, records show, goes back at least 10,000 years.  Couples can spend the day watching dolphins and whales leap from the water at SeaWorld San Diego, or strolling through Balboa Park – home to 15 major museums, world-famous art venues, and the San Diego Zoo. The Dana Hotel on Mission Bay, which enjoys an exquisite waterfront setting and is less than a mile away from the beach, features two sparking pools, two spas, and two restaurants from which you can dine the evening away. Adjacent to Sunset Park, The Dana Hotel is the closet property to SeaWorld San Diego.

Orlando: Orlando, home to Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando and SeaWorld Orlando, offers couples the opportunity to lose themselves in all the fun and excitement such thrilling parks have to offer. The AAA Four-Diamond Celebration Hotel, only five minutes from Walt Disney World, gives a nod to the past with its 1900s Florida-coastal architecture while offering modern amenities such as high-speed internet access in all accommodations. What’s more, The Plantation Room – the waterfront hotel’s restaurant – has earned a AAA Four-Diamond award itself and was rated as one of Florida’s Best Places to Dine by Florida Trend Magazine.

Chicago: The Windy City, with storied sites and attractions including the imposing Willis Tower, historic Navy Pier and legendary Chicago Theatre, makes yet another great Valentine’s Day destination. Whether you prefer a lazy jaunt around Millennium Park or a look at the many exhibitions found inside the Museum of Contemporary Art, you can call it a night at the James Hotel, just footsteps away. Located on Ontario Street, right off the Magnificent Mile, the boutique property is near fine dining and vibrant nightlife in downtown Chicago. Rooms feature amenities such as fully stocked cocktail bars, bath products and dimmable lighting, all combining to set a romantic mood for an unforgettable stay.

The stadium, which opened in 1987, is no stranger to big games as it been home to four Bowls, three BCS college national championships, The World Baseball Classic, two MLB World Series, and the annual Orange Bowl college football game since 1996. Such events have drawn huge crowds to South Florida, making it one of the country’s most celebrated sports venues. Though the hometown Florida Marlins and Miami Dolphins call South Florida home each season, first-time travelers to Miami and Ft. Lauderdale will be doing the same once immersed in all the fun and excitement the area has to offer.

Vibrant South Beach, famous for its bustling shops and trendy restaurants, is only a 35 minute drive from the stadium. Travelers will also be minutes away from the popular Cuban restaurants lining Miami’s 8th Street, animals galore at the Miami Metro Zoo, the hustle and bustle at Aventura Mall, and lively horse racing at the Calder Race Course in Ft. Lauderdale. As far as lodging, travelers attending either game have a bevy of hotels to choose from that will keep them close to the pigskin action.

1. Newport Beachside Hotel & Resort: This oceanfront property in Sunny Isles Beach is eight miles from Sun Life Stadium and nine miles from South Beach and Ft. Lauderdale International Airport. To commemorate its 40th anniversary, the hotel is undergoing interior and exterior renovations that will give way to a wider range of modern amenities for guests. Among its many facilities are a waterfront cafe, spa and salon, 18,000 square feet of meeting space and exercise room. The hotel’s oceanfront location makes it ideal for weddings, business functions, and intimate gatherings.

2.Trump International Beach Resort: The 31-story oceanfront Trump International Beach Resort faces Sunny Isles Beach and is set nine miles from Sun Life Stadium, four miles from Gulfstream Park, and 12 miles from South Beach. The on-site Aquanox Spa boasts a treatment menu that includes facial treatments and massages. Travelers looking to host a post-game party or corporate event can take advantage of 22,000 square feet of meeting and function space, including a 5,075-square-foot oceanfront ballroom. Cocktails are popular at the Lime Lounge, the Trump’s lobby bar, which lies adjacent to the hotel’s popular Sushi Bar.

3. Holiday Park Hotel & Suites: Just off I-95 and minutes from Ft. Lauderdale/Hollywood International Airport, this Deerfield Beach hotel is only 15 minutes away from Sun Life Stadium and enjoys close proximity to Boca Raton and Pompano Beach. Travelers booking their stay for either big game will receive a complimentary round trip ticket they can use to get to the stadium via the Tri-Rail Commuter Train. While on the property, guests can go head-to-head with a friend in the billiards room, work out in the fitness room, or take a dip in the outdoor swimming pool. Nearby attractions include Quiet Waters Park, Deer Creek Golf Club and Deerfield Beach Pier.

4.Crowne Plaza Hollywood Beach: Only 7.5 miles separate Sun Life Stadium from this South Florida luxury hotel, just minutes away from Gulfstream Park, Dania Jai-Alai and Aventura Mall. It boasts a 24-hour business center, fitness center, two restaurants, an outdoor heated pool, and 10,000 square feet of function space. Annual events near the property include the Ft. Lauderdale International Boat Show, Florida Derby at Gulfstream Park and Ft. Lauderdale International Auto Show. After a busy day taking in the area’s scenic attractions, travelers can enjoy a soothing massage with Touch Spa and take advantage of the Crowne Plaza’s well-touted Sleep Advantage Program.

With two huge games in the offing, there’s no question energetic South Florida makes a great destination from which to kick off the new year. Whether it’s the breathtaking beaches or shopping galore that tickle your fancy, this will be one trip you won’t soon forget.

We’ve culled the properties below for their strategic location, business and leisure facilities, and fine hospitality. If time and budget permit, add visiting these fine hotels to your New Year’s resolution list.

1. Nu Hotel: This boutique hotel in Brooklyn, New York opened as recently as 2008, yet word has spread quickly of the hotel’s fresh design and penchant for excellent service. The hotel sits at the center of the BoCoCa district, which encompasses three Brooklyn neighborhoods: Boerum Hill, whose streets are lined with French bistros and stylish brownstones; Cobble Hill, which showcases a unique mix of old world shops and gardens; and Carroll Gardens, an old-fashioned Italian neighborhood featuring posh restaurants and antique shops. Only eight miles away from Times Square, the hotel provides easy access to spots frequented by business and leisure travelers alike, including the Brooklyn Bridge, Wall Street, Brooklyn Botanical Gardens and Williamsburg Savings Bank Tower. Rooms boast plush mattresses with Egyptian cotton linens and 32-inch flat screen televisions. The hotel has a 24-hour fitness center and offers complimentary Continental breakfast at the onsite Nu Bar, as well as free WiFi Internet access all throughout and complimentary copies of The New York Times to help business travelers keep up with the news.

2. Boston Park Plaza Hotel & Towers: Steeped in history and charm, this landmark hotel – a member of Historic Hotels of America – is located in the heart of historic Back Bay and has drawn a host of U.S. presidents and celebrities since opening in 1927. The hotel is located only 200 yards from the nation’s first public parks, Public Garden and Boston Common. It was also the first hotel to include many of the standard conveniences we find in hotel rooms today, such as guestroom radios. The hotel is convenient to Newbury Street shopping, Faneuil Hall Marketplace, and Boston’s theater and financial districts. In addition, the hotel boasts nine on-site restaurants and lounges, a business center and fitness center (both open 24 hours a day), and airport shuttle service that runs daily.

3. Hotel Diva: The avant-garde Hotel Diva, set in the heart of Union Square in San Francisco, merges modern elegance with high style. It is only a short stroll from Chinatown, the American Conservatory Theatre, Curran Theatre, Moscone Convention Center, Financial District, and countless shops from Neiman Marcus to Saks Fifth Avenue. Travelers can enjoy complimentary use of a meeting room designed by renowned Architect T. Olle Lundberg, fitness room and internet lounges. They can then dine at Colibri Restaurant, famous for its Mexican tapas, or grab a cup of coffee at Starbucks, located just off the lobby.

4. Tropicana Las Vegas: Nestled in the heart of the Las Vegas Strip is Tropicana Las Vegas, which offers guests a plethora of activities and amenities. It features the 850-seat Tiffany Theater, fine restaurants, a 61,000 square foot casino, hair salon and barber shop, and three high-energy lounges. The hotel’s newly designed swimming pool is slated to open in April 2010. Business travelers can stay on task inside the business center, which offers computer rentals, photocopying and other services. But who says you can’t mix business with pleasure? The Tropicana is the only major Las Vegas casino resort to offer poolside Wi-Fi access, as guests can bring their laptops and stay connected while unwinding on the pool deck or in a private cabana. Voted “Best Las Vegas Wedding Chapel” eight years in a row, it’s no wonder so many couples say “I do” at this legendary Strip hotel. Registered guests must be at least 21 years of age.

5. Gaylord Palms Resort and Convention Center: Located just one mile from Walt Disney World and 20 minutes from Orlando International airport, this stunning property couples the charm of an old-world Florida mansion with the modern conveniences of a luxury resort. It boasts four-and-a-half acres of lush indoor gardens and a 20,000-square-foot Spa and fitness center, not to mention a wealth of restaurants, shops and lounges. Kids will enjoy Clearwater Cove – a water-activities playground that has a 120,000-gallon zero-entry family pool as well as several play areas around the pool deck. Travelers with business on the agenda can take advantage of 400,000 square feet of flexible meeting space, including the 178,500-square-foot Florida Exhibition Hall.