February 2009 Archives

The Beach Villas at Ko Olina, Oahu's most elegant beachfront property, has created a once-in-a-lifetime final sales event where the remaining villas, including the resort's most desirable beach and ocean front villa locations, can be purchased at significantly reduced prices.

 

The developer, Centex Destination Properties, will host a one-time, priority selection sales event at The JW Marriott Ihilani Resort and Spa on June 6 and 7, 2009. A Priority Reservation is required to participate in the sales event, and selection priority will be based upon the order in which Priority Reservations are received.

"This is truly the opportunity of a lifetime to own a luxury, whole ownership beachfront residence on the island of Oahu, with all the great lifestyle amenities you'd expect at a world-class resort community," said Bruce Sloan, division president for Centex Destination Properties, Hawaii. "There are some beautiful choices still available at a variety of prices, and each is just a few steps away from perfect white sand beaches and the warm Pacific Ocean."

The Beach Villas at Ko Olina, located on the sunny west coast of Oahu, are just steps from an inviting crystal clear lagoon overlooking the Pacific Ocean. This is an ideal place for the whole family to enjoy a day of swimming, snorkeling or simply relaxing on the white sand beaches. These two- and three-bedroom luxury whole-ownership residences are approximately 1,365 to 1,904 square feet of total interior living space and lanai. Premium upgrades are standard, and each villa includes a signature kitchen designed by Hawaii's renowned chef and restaurateur, Roy Yamaguchi.

Beach Villas at Ko Olina features world-class lifestyle amenities. As an owner, you'll be able step outside for your morning swim in the warm Pacific Ocean, the elegant glass tiled lap pool or the tropical lagoon style pool. The fitness center features state-of-the-art Lifefitness(R) equipment, as well as men's and women's locker and lounge areas that offer flat screen televisions, wet and dry sauna rooms and all the amenities one might expect from a well appointed health club. The on-site management team at the Beach Villas complements the owner's lifestyle experiences by providing First Class services that include concierge, valet, and security along with optional enhanced services that are tailored to meet an owner's individual needs.

The Beach Villas are centrally located in the Ko Olina Resort and Marina making for easy access to the resort's private, 330-slip Ko Olina Marina and the JW Marriott(R) Ihilani Resort & Spa with its fine restaurants and the full-service Ihilani Spa. Golf enthusiasts extol the virtues of the resort's 18-hole championship course. Designed by Ted Robinson, the course offers exceptional water features, multi-tiered greens and beautiful ocean views.

For more information, buyers should call 808.792.5005 or visit online at www.koolinabeachvillas.com.

SOURCE Centex Destination Properties

Did you ever stay at a hotel that you loved so much you wanted to live there?  Well, now you can at the residences at The Ritz-Carlton. These luxury homes can be found in many of the world's most vibrant cities and stunning resort destinations, providing a picturesque backdrop for the elegant retreat you call home. From a dedicated concierge to gourmet dining at your doorstep, your luxury real estate awaits. Imagine a home not only defined by sophisticated style and sumptuous furnishings, but equipped with impeccable service delivered by The Ritz-Carlton. From housekeeping and valet services to gourmet dining and dedicated concierge, you'll enjoy five-star living. The Residences provide luxury condominium living in many of the world's most vibrant cities and stunning resort destinations.

Elite Island Resorts, the second-largest independently owned hospitality and green certified group in the Caribbean, announces a "Vacation Stimulus Package" to Antigua this Spring and Fall with savings of up to 60 percent. Now through June 30, 2009 and repeating September 1 through October 31, 2009, travelers can seek vacation relief without breaking the bank with all inclusive nightly double occupancy rates starting at $229 for a Hillside Suite at The Verandah Resort & Spa; and $259 for a Club suite accommodation at St. James's Club & Villas, both on Antigua.

 

Known for its green-certified, casually elegant Caribbean resorts, stunning locations and caring, personal service, Elite Island Resorts' nightly double occupancy, all-inclusive rates include all meals, top-shelf liquor, non-motorized water sports, entertainment, tax and service charges. Both resorts cater to couples, families and singles. Children may stay at $60 per night, with a maximum of two children sharing a room with their parents. Additional adults sharing a room are $75 per night.

"Travelers seeking stress free time will find Elite Island Resort's 'Vacation Stimulus Package' a welcome incentive to escape to Antigua, one of the most beautiful islands in the Caribbean this spring or fall. With up to 60 percent savings on all-inclusive Caribbean vacations, this is the ideal time to plan a vacation and escape for some quality time," states Steven E. Heydt, Elite Island Resorts' president.

The Verandah Resort & Spa, an upscale eco-friendly resort adjacent to a national park, is situated on 30 spectacular waterfront acres along the pristine northeast coast of Antigua. Villa-style suites feature the resort's glorious namesake verandahs with incredible ocean views and indulgent touches such as flat-screen TVs, king-size beds, Internet access, and oversized soaking bathtubs. The resort features two white sand beaches, kayaking, hiking and more.

St. James's Club & Villas, tucked away on a secluded 100-acre peninsula on the southeastern coast of Antigua, exudes a casual, club-like ambience. Two white sand beaches rim the resort. There are also four swimming pools and a marina. Accommodations offer sweeping water views and ample privacy amid the palm trees and lush greenery. Numerous sporting activities abound. For reservations, call (800) 345-0356 or visit www.eliteislands.com .

SOURCE Elite Island Resorts

Tickets are now on sale for the 2009 River Oaks US Men's Clay Court Championships in Houston, Texas, taking place from April 6-12, 2009. This year, the highly-anticipated event has partnered with the host hotel - Renaissance Houston Hotel at Greenway Plaza, and has put together the exclusive Tennis Champ Pass Package.

 

Starting at $450, this not-to-be-missed Houston hotel package is sure to provide tennis fans with a memorable Easter weekend.

Enjoy world class men's tennis as James Blake, Lleyton Hewitt and the Bryan brothers compete for the 2009 title. The River Oaks Country Club is host to this world class event and has partnered with the Renaissance Houston Hotel to create the ultimate tennis experience.

The Renaissance Escape! Tennis Champ Pass package includes the following:

• Club inspired Texas lodging accommodations for two nights
• Valet parking at the hotel for both nights
• Breakfast buffet each morning in Bistro
• Reserved seat for the quarter-finals through the finals of the 2009 US Men's Clay Court Championship, a total of four sessions
• Rates from $450-$610

The River Oaks International began in 1931 at River Oaks Country Club and is still played today at the same venue on its original surface. Over 73 years of professional tennis, River Oaks has been the home to different tournaments including their own River Oaks International which has been a popular exhibition tournament for many years, and the Stanford Champions Cup. Visit http://www.mensclaycourt.com for more event information or to purchase tickets.

The sad state of the economy doesn't appear to be affecting the festive mood in New Orleans, Louisiana.

"Things are sort of buzzing down here right now, and it feels good," said Michael Valentino, a local businessman who owns three hotels in the French Quarter. "Didn't know what to expect this year, but it appears that interest is high and people are acting on that decision in order to make Carnival part of their travel plans."

Hotel bookings are on pace with last year, and the city is anticipating between 700,000 and 800,000 Mardi Gras visitors this year -- at least as many as 2008. Some tourism officials and business owners expect this year's attendance to top last year's numbers because Fat Tuesday, on February 24 this year, falls nearly three weeks later, giving visitors more time to plan and budget for the trip after the winter holidays.

As of Thursday, Valentino's Place d'Armes Hotel was about 96 percent booked for Mardi Gras' busiest weekend, in line with the Greater New Orleans Hotel and Lodging Association's indications for Saturday bookings, the season's peak night.

Other early indicators also are promising. Crowds for last Friday night's Pygmalion and Oshun parades were as thick as Valentino has ever seen them. He operates bleachers along St. Charles Avenue and is on the street every year. Typically the early, smaller-scale parades don't draw much attention, he said.

"It just appears that people feel the need to relax and celebrate, and Mardi Gras is an opportunity to step back from what they're dealing with every day and spend a little time in a mellower, less threatening, more carefree type of an environment."

Despite high expectations for Mardi Gras, the city's tourism industry hasn't completely dodged the economic downturn. Valentino has seen a dip in corporate and meeting inquiries at his hotels and less interest from leisure travelers during times that don't surround special events.

Still, visitation levels for the first quarter of 2009 have remained strong, according to the New Orleans Metropolitan Convention and Visitors Bureau, which spokeswoman Kelly Schulz attributes to meetings and conventions, Mardi Gras and marketing efforts to promote the city as a value destination compared with other popular American cities.

New Orleans' sparkling culinary reputation is part of its unique draw, and Patois, an Uptown restaurant away from the throngs of revelers in the French Quarter, is looking forward to a strong weekend.

By Thursday afternoon, the 60-seat restaurant had 90 people on the books for Saturday night. Chef-owner Aaron Burgau said business has been better since the beginning of the year.

Patois is closing Sunday, when the restaurant usually is open for brunch, and Burgau plans to ride in the Bacchus parade for the first time Sunday night. The ride comes at no small cost: Burgau estimated he spent about $2,500 on beads, krewe dues, a float assessment and other expenses.

Orders from krewes for beads and other throws are up this year, according to Daryl Fletchinger, owner of retail store Mardi Gras Spot and a wholesale business.

"Interestingly, everybody wants to put all of the sad, pessimistic, negative news out of their minds and do something that's very normal for New Orleanians, and that is put on the greatest free show on earth." By Marnie Hunter, CNN

Capella Telluride, the first U.S. Resort from Horst Schulze's acclaimed new luxury hotel brand, Capella Hotels and Resorts, opened its doors last week, just in time for the spring ski season. The brand's signature blend of personalized service and world-class amenities comes as a welcome addition in Telluride, which has emerged as a destination of choice for skiers of all ability levels.

The spring ski season is shaping up as one of the best in years for Telluride. More than 17 feet of snow has graced the ski area during the 2008/09 season, with more than 17 inches falling in the past 10 days alone. Fresh snow complements Telluride Ski Resort's newest terrain, Revelation Bowl, which is situated above tree line and offers advanced and expert skiers a natural, wide-open bowl with 800 vertical feet of pure bliss (equally magnificent runs throughout the mountain are also available for the beginner and intermediate enthusiast).

Capella Telluride's debut - offering premier ski-in/ski-out access to the slopes - underscores the metamorphosis of this prized ski retreat, making spring an ideal time to rediscover this mountain community. Through April 4, 2009, skiers can enjoy Capella Telluride's special introductory rate of $295 (subject to availability), designed to introduce guests to the Capella experience.

Located in the heart of Mountain Village, guests of Capella Telluride are pampered by the complimentary services of the Nordic Lounge, where ski valet pre-warm boots, wax skis and store guests' equipment. For tired muscles, spa therapies are available in-room or in one of Capella Telluride's beautifully appointed suites, pending the March 15th debut of The Spa at Capella. For apres-ski aperitifs and tapas, Suede Bar is a comfortable perch. Haute alpine cuisine is available during breakfast and dinner at Onyx Restaurant. And Personal Assistants - a core element of the Capella Telluride experience - are on-hand to ensure that every moment of each guests' visit is custom-crafted.

When Telluride's snow melts, the adventures continue, and guests will be introduced to Capella Telluride's summer splendor thanks to a special starting rate of $195 (subject to availability). Reservations are available online at www.capellatelluride.com.

SOURCE Capella Telluride

PHOENIX, Feb. 17 / -- Before the first suborbital space ship has even flown its first flight, the cost of commercial "space" travel available to the general public has already dropped by more than fifty percent.

 

RocketShip Tours and XCOR Aerospace recently announced that the cost of their suborbital space flight, which will begin operation in 2010 will be just $95,000. This includes a five-night stay at a luxury resort, complete training, medical evaluation and screening, cancellation insurance and, of course, the flight itself.

Virgin Galactic, founded by the well-known entrepreneur, Richard Branson, is currently offering a similar experience for $200,000.

RocketShip Tours is the result of a partnership between travel pioneer, Jules Klar, and XCOR Aerospace. Klar got his start in the travel business in 1961 when he, along with the legendary Arthur Frommer, created $5-A-Day Tours.

According to Klar, "Our goal is to make space travel accessible and affordable to those who aspire to experience the ultimate adventure. By reducing the cost of it by more than 50 percent, we think we have taken a major step toward accomplishing this goal."

As General Sales Agent for XCOR Aerospace, Klar is now using his expansive knowledge as a true innovator in the travel industry to pioneer the advent of space travel to the public. "This is sure to be a life-altering experience, and I am honored to have the opportunity to present it to the public," Klar added.

Participants in the program will travel to the edge of space in a suborbital space vehicle known as the Lynx that is powered by environmentally friendly rocket engines. Unlike the plans for Virgin Galactic that call for travelers to fly to space with several other travelers, the RocketShip Tours experience calls for just a single passenger on each flight who will actually sit in the co-pilot's seat beside the astronaut-pilot flying the ship.

XCOR Aerospace was founded in 1999 and is located at the Mojave Spaceport and civilian Aerospace Test Center in Mojave, California. It engages in research, development and production of reusable rocket-powered launch vehicles.

STOWE, Vt., Feb. 12 / -- Stowe, Vermont, the premier ski resort in New England, is extending the enormously popular Ski & Stay for under $100 Per Person promotion. Stay midweek and receive a FREE Stowe Points Card for each person in the party.

 

The Stowe Points Card offers a $59 adult lift ticket each time you ski at Stowe Mountain Resort, Sunday through Friday, non holiday. Plus, it gathers points for purchases made on lift tickets, food and merchandise at the resort, throughout the entire season. And it's easy to earn points toward a FREE UNRESTRICTED LIFT TICKET. And, it just gets better: for added value, the card remains valid throughout the year, accumulating points during the summer and fall as well as winter.

This Ski n' Stay promotion is an incomparable way to experience the new Stowe Mountain Resort, with the just-opened, state-of-the-art Spruce Camp Base Lodge and skiing and riding conditions that are second to none in the East. Grooming and snowmaking continue to guarantee riders and skiers superlative on-slope adventures. To book, go to www.gostowe.com or call 1-800-GOSTOWE.

SAN DIEGO, Feb. 12 / -- The celebration known as "Mardi Gras Carnival Season" kicks off Friday, ending when the last reveler heads home on Fat Tuesday, February 24. CSA Travel Protection (CSA), a company dedicated to providing value-driven travel insurance and emergency assistance services, provides the following list of fun facts about Mardi Gras.

 

1. Mardi Gras is the direct French translation of "Fat Tuesday." It refers to the last day before the season of Lent begins.

2. The first American Mardi Gras was celebrated near modern-day New Orleans on March 3, 1699.

3. The official colors of Mardi Gras are purple, green and gold (representing justice, faith and power).

4. In New Orleans, private social groups called "Krewes" put on parades during the season's festivities.

5. Fat Tuesday is a legal holiday in Louisiana.

6. More than 60 parades and hundreds of private parties, dances and masked balls are scheduled annually in the New Orleans metropolitan area during Mardi Gras.

7. The Zulu Parade, put on by the oldest and most prestigious, predominantly African American Carnival club in New Orleans, will celebrate its 100th year in 2009.

8. The term "Throws" refers to plastic beads and cheap trinkets thrown by masked krewe members from floats as they pass by parade goers.

9. Mardi Gras, the day, is actually the last day of a long celebration of parades and merriment that begins 12 days prior to Fat Tuesday.

10. In 2005, more than one million revelers attended Mardi Gras in New Orleans.

Travelers heading to New Orleans or other Mardi Gras and Carnival destinations are reminded to protect themselves from unforeseen circumstances that could potentially postpone or cut-short their trip. While travel insurance can't stop the unexpected from happening, it can protect and support travelers when mishaps occur, such as flight delays and missed connections.

CSA offers its customers convenient protection when traveling, with additional benefits like No Out-of-Pocket Medical Expense. If a traveler develops an acute illness while on their covered trip, a one-time medical expense will be paid for treatment under $1,000*.

Travelers can call their travel agent to purchase, or request more information on, this CSA Travel Protection exclusive.

SOURCE CSA Travel Protection

NEW YORK, Feb. 11 / -- The Andalucia region of southern Spain romances New York with its 9th Annual Flamenco Festival in February, "one of New York City's most important events" (Newsday), thrilling audiences while inspiring them to visit Andalucia, birthplace of flamenco.

 

The acclaimed Antonio Gades Company, established to perpetuate masterworks of the legendary dancer-choreographer, presents the flamenco version of "Carmen" in its USA premier, a re-staging of the Carlos Saura classic film starring Gades (now celebrating its 25th anniversary) at New York City Center.

Estrella Morente, daughter of flamenco cantaor Enrique Morente, is "a singer of amazing power and rhythmic control...among the new generation of flamenco" (New York Times). She ignites Carnegie hall with her stirring concert of flamenco and traditional Andalusian songs. For New York program and world tour: www.andaluciaflamenco.com

Flamenco, with folkloric origins centuries ago, is flourishing and evolving as a performing art with diverse regional genres and styles uniquely characteristic of each of Andalucia's eight provinces: Almeria, Cadiz, Cordoba, Granada, Huelva, Jaen, Malaga and Sevilla.

Coinciding with the New York Flamenco Festival, the Andalucia Tourist Board (www.andalucia.org), in conjunction with the Tourist Office of Spain (www.spain.info), is promoting tourism. Dignitaries and marketing executives from Andalucia are hosting special events for the travel industry in the New York area.

Traveling to and within Andalucia has become easier and even more convenient. Inaugurated June 4, 2008, Delta's nonstop service between New York (JFK) and Malaga's Pablo Ruiz Picasso Airport (duly named for the city's native son), increases its frequency to five flights a week in June 2009. (www.delta.com)

Iberia Airlines offers extensive service from five U.S. cities -- New York, Chicago, Miami, Boston and Washington DC -- nonstop to Madrid with convenient connections to cities in Andalucia. (www.iberia.com)

A transportation milestone in Andalucia is the high-speed AVE (Alta Velocidad Espanola) state-of-the-art bullet train between Madrid and Malaga in just 2-1/2 hours (velocity up to 215 mph). Inaugurated in December 2007, it transported over two million passengers during its first year of operation. This Madrid-Malaga route compliments Spain's first AVE service between Madrid and Seville (also a 2-1/2-hour trip), launched with extraordinary success for Seville's 1192 Universal Exposition. Additionally, a growing high-speed network connects Andalusian cities such as Malaga-Sevilla. (www.renfe.com)

SOURCE andaluciaflamenco.com

FORT WORTH, Texas, Feb. 10 / -- American Airlines says "enough" to cold, gloomy winter weather. But rather than just complain, we're doing something about it. American is having a sale for winter/spring travel to some of the sunniest, warmest spots in the Caribbean and Mexico.

American, a founding member of the global oneworld(R) Alliance, is offering great low fares for travel now through mid-May from the continental U.S. to select destinations in the Caribbean and Mexico.

If you want to escape the cold, American is your airline, and now is the time. No airline offers more service to the Caribbean than American, along with our regional affiliate, American Eagle. And, we've been flying to sunny Mexico for more than 60 years.

Low fares and frequent flights are enough to brighten any gloomy winter day, so add some sunshine to your life with a great fare to the Caribbean or Mexico on American Airlines.

Tickets for American's winter/spring sale fares to the Caribbean and Mexico must be purchased by Feb. 25, 2009, so log on to American's Web site, AA.com, to begin planning your trip soon. (We have great fares from Canada to the Caribbean and Mexico on AA.com as well.)

American Airlines Winter/Spring Sale to the Caribbean and Mexico

• Available from the continental U.S. to select destinations in the Caribbean and Mexico.
• Travel through May 14, 2009.
• Purchase tickets no later than Feb. 25, 2009.
• Other restrictions apply. For rules and restrictions, see the terms and conditions below, or visit American's Web site, AA.com.

Here are samples of American's great low fares. Fare amounts shown are each way based on off-peak, round-trip Economy Class travel purchased on AA.com.

                                  SAMPLE MARKETS
                                                      Fare Each Way Based on
                   From - To                           Round-Trip Purchase*
    Miami - Grand Cayman, Cayman Is.                            $80
    Philadelphia - San Juan, Puerto Rico                        $88
    New York City - Aruba                                       $97
    Los Angeles - Los Cabos, Mexico                            $103
    Baltimore - San Juan, Puerto Rico                          $106
    Miami - Punta Cana, Dom. Rep.                              $107
    Miami - La Romana/Casa de Campo, Dom. Rep.+                $112
    Dallas/Fort Worth - Cozumel, Mexico                        $135
    Dallas/Fort Worth - Puerto Vallarta, Mexico                $135
    Dallas/Fort Worth - Los Cabos, Mexico                      $185
    New York City - St. Lucia, B.W.I.                          $190
    Chicago O'Hare - Los Cabos, Mexico                         $212

*Fares shown are each way based on off-peak, round-trip Economy Class travel purchased on AA.com, and are in U.S. dollars. Fares are valid for travel through May 14, 2009. Fares do not include all government-imposed taxes and fees.

+Service operated partly by American Eagle.

Travelers can check schedules and fares and book flights by visiting www.aa.com.

The Residences at The Little Nell located at the base of Aspen Mountain opens today, making it the most luxurious, shared ownership project of its kind.

ASPEN, Colo., Feb. 6 / -- The Residences at The Little Nell (RLN) officially opens today, making it the most luxurious, shared ownership project of its kind. More than $80 million in sales have closed on this 26- residence property located at the base of Aspen Mountain, with significant sales continuing throughout February.

 

"Our buyers and their brokers had very high expectations for the quality, amenities and service of The Residences when they first considered the property," said Brooke Peterson, executive committee member of The Residences of The Little Nell Development. "Having had many of those same people walk through our doors, it's nice to be able to say we've exceeded their expectations."

The Residences will be exclusively managed and operated by The Little Nell Hotel, Aspen's only Mobil Five-Star and AAA Five-Diamond recognized hotel and member of Relais & Chateaux. Among the amenities residents will enjoy include:

    -- Direct ski-in/ski-out access to Aspen Mountain
    -- Health center and rooftop pool
    -- Valet parking
    -- Slope-side ski lockers and personal storage
    -- 24-hour services including maid, concierge (pre-arrival also available)
       and  in-residence dining
    -- 24-hour car service and/or vehicles available for residents' exclusive
       use

"This project combines five-star service with a modern design that complements the area's architectural heritage and takes advantage of the property's unique, picturesque setting," Peterson said. "Everything about The Residences was done with care and a precision worthy of its location and preeminence among luxury properties."

The Residences has 208 fractional ownership interests of which 200 were placed under hard contract prior to today's opening. Those sales represent an unprecedented 96 percent sold when most properties open with 40 to 45 percent of units under contract. Of the 26 residences, there are 19 three-bedrooms averaging 2,800 sq. ft. and seven four-bedrooms averaging 3,800 sq. feet. Eight fractions in the three-bedroom category remain for sale. Floor plans are unique and include custom furnishings. Residences will be offered to the public for short-term rentals, and the RLN also has eight hotel suites on site that are available for short-term rental.

"With its dramatic architecture, stunning interiors and grand living spaces, The Residences at The Little Nell is truly one-of-a-kind," Peterson said. "We're looking forward to welcoming each of our residents beginning this season."

 

About The Residences at the Little Nell

The Residences at The Little Nell consist of 26 residences, including 19 three bedrooms and seven four bedrooms. It is exclusively managed and operated by The Little Nell, Aspen's only Mobile Five-Star and AAA Five-Diamond recognized hotel. Amenities include direct ski-in/ski-out access to Aspen Mountain, in-residence dining, personal storage, a health center, a rooftop pool, valet parking, slope-side ski lockers and 24-hour services including maid, car and concierge (pre-arrival services also available). Vehicles and 24-hour car service also are available for use by residents.

SOURCE Residences at The Little Nell

Citywide Promotion Offers a Buy One, Get One Free Hotel Stay and a Variety of Romantic Options

BALTIMORE, Feb. 5 /PRNewswire/ -- The calendar is in cupid's favor this year with Valentine's Day taking place during the long President's Day weekend and Baltimore is the perfect place to "Get a Room" and celebrate. Take advantage of the extra day off in Baltimore with this citywide promotion that allows visitors to book one night at a participating hotel and receive the second night free. Complete your weekend getaway with a Valentine's Day inspired meal at one of Baltimore's best restaurants, and visit some of the city's most romantic spots and love-inspiring exhibits.

Baltimore's "Get a Room" promotion is as easy as it sounds. Visit www.Baltimore.org/romance to book your one-night stay in Baltimore, arriving on February 13, 14 or 15 and get a second night free. More than 20 of Baltimore's hottest hotels are participating, including the charming 1840's Carrollton Inn bed and breakfast, the Baltimore Marriott Waterfront, the Admiral Fell Inn, and many more.

 

Baltimore restaurants are cooking up their own irresistible deals by creating delicious prix-fixe Valentine's Day menus. Whether you are in the mood for elegant cuisine and atmosphere at The Brass Elephant, traditional Greek fare at Black Olive in historic Fell's Point or hearty Italian cooking at La Tavola in Baltimore's famous Little Italy district, Baltimore has romantic dining covered.

All throughout Baltimore, love is in the air with an abundance of Valentine's Day-themed activities. Take a cruise under the stars on Baltimore Spirit Cruises. Wine, dine and dance in the cozy ship as you glide across the luminescent evening harbor. Explore the exhibition, "The Romance of the Rose," at The Walters Art Museum or take a twilight tour of the Baltimore Museum of Art for a "Night of Romance" and sip champagne as you view love inspired art.

For more "Get a Room" options and additional information on planning a visit to Baltimore, please visit www.baltimore.org/romance.

The Baltimore Area Convention and Visitors Association (BACVA) -- the official sales and marketing organization for Baltimore that generates economic benefits for stakeholders through the attraction of convention, group and leisure visitors.

SOURCE The Baltimore Area Convention and Visitors Association