Our favorite politician this election season isn’t a Democrat or Republican—it’s Walt Arnett, the candidate of the Orbitz Vacation Party! The competition was steep, but Walt clinched our Facebook election with his hilarious campaign video and staunch pro-vacation stance. So far Walt’s visited Miami, Las Vegas and Chicago on his cross-country tour; for a complete schedule (as well as the chance for you to win a swanky trip to one of his campaign stops), visit the Orbitz Vacation Party headquarters at www.orbitzvacationparty.com.
We caught up with Walt to see how things are going on the campaign trail. (more…)
Emerald City: The MGM Grand is a recently renovated Las Vegas hotel.
By Mark Chesnut
A perennial favorite for business travelers and conventioneers (not to mention lots of vacationers), Las Vegas is in the midst of a wave of renovation. The result? Even more ways to indulge and be productive in so-called “Sin City.” (more…)
Retro chic: La Suite 007 exudes James Bond style, at Seven Hotel Paris.
By Mark Chesnut
If you think about it, James Bond—the world’s most famous secret agent—is nothing more than a very talented business traveler. His business might be a bit different from most frequent flyers, but the places that he’s stayed in many movies aren’t out of reach for more common, real-life globetrotters. And now, as fans celebrate the 50th anniversary of the popular movie franchise and a new film is about to debut this fall, the timing is perfect for making that next trip a bit more like a 007 assignment. Here are some hotels that Bond has booked. (more…)
Tall order: The Westin Peachtree Plaza, Atlanta, is one of the tallest hotels in the United States.
By Mark Chesnut
At the end of this year, the JW Marriott Marquis Dubai debuts as the world’s tallest hotel. But even before that soaring tower opens its doors, you can enjoy the views and live the high life at the world’s tallest hotels. (more…)
Takeoff slots: Las Vegas airport's new Terminal 3 tempts last-minute gamblers with nearly 300 slot machines.
By Mark Chesnut
Las Vegas is the latest U.S. airport to unveil a brand-new terminal building, as well as a slew of terminal and service changes. On June 27, McCarran International Airport officially opened its $2.4 billion Terminal 3, more commonly called T3. The new facility replaces the older Terminal 2. (more…)
Water world: Wet Republic, at the MGM Grand, is one of the best pools in Las Vegas.
By Mark Chesnut
Las Vegas may sit in the sun-scorched desert, but it’s a great place to get wet. Swimming pools at Las Vegas hotels are often as grand and over-the-top as the attention-getting lobbies and casinos that are just a few steps away. Here are a few great places to wet — sorry, whet — your appetite. (more…)
I have a confession to make: Since becoming a wife, mother, home owner, wound dresser, diorama expert, writing coach, nurse and all the other “jobs” I do, on top of my full-time one, I’ve secretly wanted to run away. Before you judge, it’s not like that—and believe me when I say I know plenty of moms who’ve voiced out loud that they’d rather be at an all-inclusive than the detergent aisle at Target. (more…)
Heavenly perch: Haven is a new rooftop venue at the Sanctuary Hotel in New York City.
By Mark Chesnut
With the arrival of summer, full-grown adults can sometimes feel like antsy schoolchildren, yearning to play outdoors rather than feeling trapped inside. Luckily, an array of business-minded hotels make it easy to entertain clients, organize meetings and relax with colleagues while enjoying plenty of fresh air. (more…)
Combo deal: The new Sleep Inn/MainStay Suites combination prototype
By Mark Chesnut
During its 58th annual franchisor’s convention last month in Las Vegas, Choice Hotels announced new developments at a variety of its brands — with new food, new design and a completely new brand combination among the offerings. (more…)
