Starwood offering big discounts in Hawaii.

Some of the finest accommodations in Hawaii belong to the Starwood Hotels & Resorts group.  And right now, they’re offering Starwood Preferred Guests (SPG) a great deal on 11 of their Hawaii properties. 

First off, they’ve discounted their rooms rates by 35%, and they’re giving SPG members double points.  When you stay the minimum number of nights -- five or three, depending on the property -- you’ll also get one night free.  And to top it all off, you’ll get breakfast for two each day and a free room upgrade.  Some of the properties are even offering a double room upgrade.

Save on Kiahuna Plantation Kauai vacation rentals.

When we visited Kauai last February, we stayed at Kiahuna Plantation and couldn’t have been happier with our choice.  Having a kitchen and lanai let us enjoy leisurely breakfasts and pre-dinner drinks “at home.”  The broad, golden-sand beach was perfect.  And we could walk to shops and restaurants at Poipu Village.

The 330 units are spread out over 35 beach-front acres that were once a plantation.  The low-rise buildings are surrounded by tropical foliage and grass lawn, and there are barbecue grills available for guests’ use.  There’s also a lovely restaurant, Plantation Gardens.

Art Nouveau splendor and a soothing soak at the Hotel Gellert.

With wonderful architecture, vibrant culture, and rich history, Budapest is a wonderful destination.  Since joining the European Union in 2004, it has many of the advantages of Western Europe.  But it’s managed to maintain most of its Eastern European mystique.

Straddling the Danube, the cities of Buda and Pest offer lots to see and do.  And you’ll likely be worn out after a full day of seeing the sights.  But there’s a great way to unwind in Budapest when it’s time to kick back.  Visit one of the city’s 118 natural thermal springs for a soak. 

Image Flickr: http://www.flickr.com/photos/oansari/