St Patricks Day Parade in NYC 2010 – Best Hotel Guide

 
Since its origins in 1766, the St Patrick’s Day Parade in New York City just gets more popular by the year. Join over 100,000 Americans, Irish or non Irish this March 17th and be part of the world’s largest St Patrick's Day Parade.

Book a Hotel for the Parade and Paint the Town Green

Best Choice St Patrick's Day Hotel in NYC

Soho House Hotel – 5* Private Members Club & Hotel

To celebrate St Patrick’s Day between March 5th and 17th the Soho House Hotel New York will be having a pot luck sale. Enjoy exclusive room rates of $400, inclusive of breakfast. Book quickly as rooms are allocated on a first come first served basis.

Book your stay at the Soho House New York

More NYC Hotels For St Patrick's Day

On the Ave Hotel New York - Minutes away from Central Park, this 4 star hotel is a popular choice for travellers to New York City.  Rates start from $139

Park Central Hotel New York - Offering affordable accommodation, ideally located on 7th Ave New York, experience St Patrick’s Day at the heart of the parade. Rates start from $114

Experience the luck of the Irish with a stay in one of our charming Hotels in New York City

The published rates are per room per night for single or double occupancy. Rates listed are correct at the 10th March 2010 for selected stays in March 2010 and are subject to availability and may change at any time.

HotelBook.com’s Great US Hotel Deals for Under $100

If you're thinking of exploring America's best cities this month you are in luck, March is a great time to find great hotel deals in the US. Whether you’re thinking of going New York, Florida, Washington or elsewhere in the States we are here to help you find the best affordable accommodation in some of the most popular locations in the US.

Top US Hotels for Under $100 a Night

Hotel Riverside Studios (New York)

Situated next to Broadway and Trump Towers, this hotel provides a European flavour and is within walking distance of Central Park and Broadway.
Rates from $75 per night

Book a stay at Hotel Riverside Studios

Ocean Surf Hotel (Miami)

This 3 star hotel is popular amongst budget travellers and leisure beachgoers. It’s located conveniently across the street from the ocean in North Beach Miami.
Rates from $95 per night

Book a Stay at the Ocean Surf Hotel

Holiday Golden Glades Boutique Hotel (Miami)

Another very affordable hotel in Miami, this hotel is ideal for people on vacation who want an place to crash at night that's convenient for spending most of the day exploring Miami.
Rates from $89 per night

Book a stay at the Holiday Golden Glades Boutique Hotel

Royal Resort (Las Vegas)

Situated in the heart of the famous Las Vegas strip, this hotel offers an intimate, vibrant atmosphere. Rooms are bright and traditionally furnished with a great view of the Las Vegas strip.

Rates from $89 per night

Book a stay at the Royal Resort Las Vegas

Kohl’s Ranch Lodge (Arizona)

Situated within the largest Ponderosa Pine forest in the world, Kohl’s Ranch Lodge  friendly staff and many amenities will keep you entertained in the American West.

Rates from $79 per night

Book a stay at Kohl's Ranch Lodge

Visit HotelBook.com for more great deals

Please note: Rates are per room per night for 2 people sharing for selected stays in March and April 2010. Rates are correct at the 8th March 2010 and are subject to availability and may change at any time.

Chinese New Year hotels from $59 / £36

Celebrate the Year of the Tiger with hotelbook.com
Celebrated all over the world, taking part in Chinese New Year celebrations is a must-do experience on any travellers list. 

From Shanghai and Beijing to Hong Kong and Tokyo, or the many Chinatowns in cities around the world, you will be greeted with a sea of vivid dragons, red garlands and good luck emblems. Chinese New Year 2010 brings in the year of the Tiger and New Year's day falls on February 14th, when celebrations hit a crescendo. Find a Chinese New Year event to join near you.

Hotel Offers for Chinese New Year
To mark Chinese New Year, we've found some of the best deals available on hotels in the finest places to enjoy the New Year celebrations:
China Hotels - Beijing, Shanghai and more - prices starting at just 410 CNY - $60/£37 per room per night.
Hong Kong Hotels - Hotels all over the island metropolis - prices starting at just 484 HKD- $62/£38 per room per night.
Japan Hotels - Tokyo, Osaka and more - prices starting at just 5400 JPY - $59 / £36 per room per night.
Korean Hotels - Explore Seoul and the Korean coast prices starting at just 130,000 KRW - $115/£70 per room per night 

See all our hotel offers for Chinese New Year

more hotel ideas for chinese new year
Chinatown New York | London's Chinatown |
The published rates are per room per night, are correct at the 19th January 2010 for selected stays in January and February 2010 and are subject to availability and may change at any time.

Munich Christmas Market - Special Hotel Offer

 
The city of Munich in Germany hosts one of the oldest Christmas Markets in Europe, with records of the "Nicholas Market" dating back to the 14th century.

In 2009 the Christmas Market is running between the 27th November and 24th December, so you still have time to visit and find the perfect Christmas gifts for your loved ones.

Find out more and take a look around Munich's Christmas Market at the muenchen.de tourism website

Where to stay

We've found a great deal on a hotel in Munich, perfect for visitors to the Christmas market.

The Acom Hotel Muenchen Haar is offering a special rate which includes: breakfast, welcome drink, city map, ticket for public transportation, when guests stay for 2 nights or more.

December dates still available from 59€ p/n - Book now

The hotel rate quoted is correct as of the 8th December 2009 for selected stays in December 2009. The price is the total room price per night for 2 people sharing and is subject to availability and may change at any time.

San Francisco - Highlights and Hotels

 
If you are looking for an alternative way to spend the holidays, then San Francisco is the place to be.

Things to do in San Francisco over the holiday period:

Full-throttle Night Clubs - Dance the night away
If you want to strut your stuff on the dancefloor, San Francisco hosts many monthly club nights to get your body moving and groovin'.

• Re-Cycle @ 550 Space - High energy Trance & Techno
• Red Melon @ DNA Lounge - House Music, newly renovated

Theatre - Escape to another world
Running through 24th January 2010, OVO from Cirque Du Soleil makes it home under the Grand Chapiteau, at AT&T Park. Weekdays adult tickets start from $60.

History - Expand your gray matter
Tutankhamun & the Golden Age of Pharaohs @ de Young Museum. A journey through ancient Egypt and their most renown ruler. Travel back in time 3,000 years.

More Events in San Francisco

Hotels in San Francisco

If you're in San Francisco over the holidays and need somewhere to rest your head, choose one of our favorite hotels in San Francisco that won't blow your festive budget.

3* Renoir Hotel - from $56

- Downtown San Francisco - Market Street
The Renoir Hotel is a classic European style charming budget boutique hotel and is ideally placed for anyone wishing to get around the city.

• 1 night rate from - $75
• 2 night rate from - $66
• 3+ night rate from - $56

Book a stay at the Renoir Hotel >>

3* Handlery Union Square Hotel - from $129

- Geary Street - Union Square 
The Handlery Union Square Hotel is a family owned enterprise, nestled between Macys and the famed Union Square business district .

Book a stay at the Handlery Hotel >>

These just give you a taste of the hotels we have in San Francisco. If you want to see all our hotels in San Francisco, visit our dedicated San Francisco Hotel pages.

More resources.....

San Francisco Travel Guide

Hotel rates are correct as at December 4th for selected stays in December 2009 & January 2010 and are subject to availability and may change at any time.

Warm your cockles with Winter Sunshine!

Here in London the nights are drawing in and the mornings are getting darker. To top it all off, the weather has been at its worst over the last few weeks, making hopping on a plane for a few hours a more enticing thought than ever.

At this time of year you don't have to go too far for a bit of sunshine, with the Canary Islands or Turkey around 4 hours and Dubai at just 6 hours flight time from the UK. But if you do fancy getting away from it all, Thailand and the far East are great choices at this time of year. If you're looking for family friendly fun, then fantastic Florida - the Sunshine State - is what you need to melt away your winter blues. 

Need a little more inspiration? Here's a list of our top choices of hotels for winter sunshine to whet your appetite further:

Winter Sun in The Americas

Hotels in Florida, the Caribbean & Hawaii
Ocean Surf Hotel - Miami Beach - 3* - from $51
El Canario Inn - San Juan - 2* - from $90
Pacific Beach Hotel - Honolulu - 3* - from $99
See all our Winter Sun offers in America >>>

Winter Sun in Europe & the Middle East

 
Hotels in Spain's Islands, Dubai & Turkey
Sercotel San Antonio - Lanzarote - 4* - from 97€
Golden Sands Aparts - Dubai - 3* - from 248 AED
Sisus Hotel Cesme - Turkey - 5* - from 135€
See all our Winter Sun offers in Europe >>>

Winter Sun in Asia Pacific

 
Hotels in Thailand, Malaysia & Singapore
Amari Palm Reef - Koh Samui - 4* - from 3600 THB
Landmark Village - Singapore - 4* - from 140 SGD
Sunway Resort - Kuala Lumpur -5* -from 320 MYR
See all our Winter Sun offers in Asia >>>

Seek out the sunshine this winter with hotelbook.com

A Thriller in Manila - The 5-Star Diamond Hotel Philippines

With over 7,000 tropical islands, and the largest producer of coconuts in the world, the Philippines is a South East Asian treasure. Manila is the capital city, with over 14 million people making their home in the Metropolitan area of Manila.

New to hotelbook, the Diamond Hotel Philippines is a 5* luxury hotel situated in the Manila Bay area. Offering everything you'd expect from a top-class hotel including: the Diamond Spa, both indoor and outdoor pool and a fitness center. In addition to these fantastic facilities, the hotel also offers numerous restaurants offering exquisite cuisine from local delicacies to Japanese and European fare.

As an added bonus for guests visiting the Diamond Hotel, all rates include up to free 3 hour use of internet daily and free welcome mini-bar pack.

Book the Diamond Hotel today and for great rates!

Whether you're visiting for business or pleasure, the Diamond Hotel offers great deals on hotel stays all year round. Here's a selection to choose from today:

1. Utell Luxury Weekend Rate from 6300 PHP (£81/$136)
Deluxe King Room -  40sqm of luxury - with a City or Bay View

2. GREATRATE - from 7650 PHP (£98/$165)
Deluxe King Room -  40sqm of luxury - with a City or Bay View
Free buffet breakfast included - For stays of 2 nts or more

PLEASE NOTE: Rates are correct as of the 17th November 2009 for selected stays in November and December 2009. Rates are for single or double occupancy and are subject to availability. The free welcome mini-bar pack offer includes 2 sodas, 2 bottled iced teas and 4 bottled waters.

Shop 'til you drop this Christmas in London

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas
Christmas is a special time, and nowhere is this more true than London. Tuesday, 3rd of November at 5pm marks the annual turning on of the Christmas lights in Oxford Street and Regent Street - announcing the Christmas season well and truly open. Flicking the switch this year will be the stars of the new 3D animation of Charles Dickens' A Christmas Carol: Jim Carrey and Colin Firth.

Santa Claus is coming to town
Department stores such as Harrods, Harvey Nichols and Selfridges each have their own special take on Christmas celebrations. Harrods hosts its annual Christmas Parade through the local streets on Saturday November 7th and each year releases a new Christmas Teddy, this year's bear is named Maxwell.

Selfridges' Christmas shop has been open since the 8th August to give customers plenty of time to get in the festive spirit! If you're on the hunt for some festive fare, why not pick up a Harvey Nick's Christmas hamper ranging from a cool £60 to a very hot £2,500!  Even if you don't have the cash to splash this year, the Christmas window displays in these stores are a sight to behold and not to be missed!

Walking in a Winter Wonderland
Hyde Park hosts it's very own Winter Wonderland from the end of November until the beginning of January. With a Christmas market, Santa's Grotto and London's largest ice rink to keep you entertained, this is the perfect place to get in the spirit of Christmas.

If you'd like to take a trip to London this festive season and need somewhere to drop off your purchases at the end of a marathon retail therapy session, hotelbook would like to recommend some of the most shopping friendly hotels in London.

Kensington House Hotel - 4* - From £110/$180
Oozing 19th century elegance and offering great access to Harrods, Harvey Nicholls and the exclusive Knightsbridge district. Read more

The Rathbone Hotel - 4* - From £100/$164
This classic boutique hotel offers ideal access to the shopping meccas of Oxford Street and Tottenham Court Road. Read more

Corus Hotel Hyde Park 4* - From £149/$244
Just minutes away from the gates of Hyde Park, the Corus Hotel is the perfect place to stay for a visit to the Winter Wonderland. Read more

St Giles Hotel 3* - From £84/$137
One of the best placed hotels in London, St Giles sits just off Tottenham Court Rd, for easy access to Oxford Street and Piccadilly Circus. Read more

Rates quoted are per room per night for 2 people sharing and are correct on the 28th October 2009 for selected stays in November and December. hotelbook tip: Many hotels offer the lowest rates on Sunday nights.

It's Beaujolais Nouveau Time!

Be one of the first to sample this year's Beaujolais Nouveau vintage at a great hotel in Paris!

Beaujolais Nouveau is a light red wine made from Gamay grapes in France's Beaujolais region which is fermented for just a few weeks before being released for sale.

Every year sees a race to get the first bottles of "Nouveau" to Paris in time for Beaujolais Nouveau Day, which falls on the 3rd Thursday of November.

Historically the wine was only made for local consumption, but over the years interest in Beaujolais Nouveau has increased and since the 1970's Beaujolais Nouveau Day has been a national event promoted with the slogan: "Le Beaujolais nouveau est arrivé".

Eleven of our favourite hotels in Paris are offering their guests a rare chance to sample this year's Beaujolais Nouveau on Beaujolais Day, Thursday the 19th November 2009:

Claridge Paris 4* - Rates from €230
Emeraude Helios Opera 3* - Rates from €114
Franklin Roosevelt Hotel 4* - Rates from €220
Le Senat Hotel 3* - Rates from €195
Le Tourville Hotel 4* - Rates from €150
Littre Saint Germain Hotel 4* - Rates from €179
Plaza Tour Eiffel Hotel 4* - Rates from €180
Powers Hotel 4* - Rates from €220
Rochester Champs Elysees Hotel 4* - Rates from €220
Splendid Etoile Hotel 4* - Rates from €220
Waldorf Arc de Triomphe Hotel Spa 4* - Rates from €185
Waldorf Trocadero Hotel 4* - Rates from €165

Stay in style and uncover your inner sommelier with a glass of this year's finest Beaujolais Nouveau at a top hotel in Paris!

All rates quoted are correct for a one night stay for 2 people sharing a room on Thursday the 19th November 2009 and are correct as of the 10th OCtober 2009.

Experience the beauty of the changing seasons in Japan’s National Parks

 
Japan is a country of contrasts, where the fast paced, hi-tech cities nestle side by side with areas of outstanding natural beauty.

Now is a perfect time to visit the National Parks of Japan to witness first-hand the changing of the seasons. The Autumn leaves spectacular attracts hordes of both Japanese and international tourists each year.

With so many wonderful parks to fit into a trip, we’ve picked our top 3 from the Japanese NTO’s suggestions to give you a flavour of what you can expect.

Lake Chuzenji-ko, Tochigi (3 hours north of Tokyo)
The highest lake in Japan offers a fantastic starting point for an Autumn nature tour. The banks of the Lake are teeming with Beech, Lacquer and Maple trees now bursting forth with a cacophony of red and orange hues. 
Visit late Sept. - early Nov.

Jingo-ji Temple, Kyoto
Standing on the hillside of Mount Takao-san, to the north-west of Kyoto, Jingo-ji Temple is another superb spot to see Autumn leaves at their best in Japan. Climb the steps for a breathtaking panoramic view of the Kiyotaki-gawa river valley dressed in its Autumn finery.
Visit mid to late Nov.

Momijidani-koen Park, Hiroshima 
The name Momijidani actually means "valley of Autumn leaves". This natural monument is situated just outside a medieval forest where magnificent maple trees of various varieties show-off their autumn splendour.
Visit early - mid Nov.

Stay independent in Japan with hotelbook.com
When you're done visiting the natural wonders of Japan, you'll need somewhere to stay. Here's our pick of hotels in Japan to complete your trip in style.

Kyoto Brighton Hotel
5* Kyoto Hotel from 20700 JPY ($231/£145)
Renowned for a delicate combination of five-star British elegance with unrivalled Japanese service.

Cross Hotel Osaka
4* Osaka Hotel from 15500 JPY ($173/£108)
A contemporary designed hotel suitable for both business and leisure travel.

Tokyu Inn Shinbashi Atagoyama
3* Tokyo Hotel from 11520 JPY ($128/£80)
Surrounded by historic temples yet within easy reach of the business district.

Century Southern Tower Hotel
4* Tokyo Hotel from 16920 JPY ($189/£118)
Offering a luxurious escape from the city below, this hotel is located in the heart of Shinjuku.

Dai Ichi Hotel Annex
4* Tokyo Hotel from 15000 JPY ($167/£105)
Its convenient and central location for transport links, makes this hotel a perfect base in Tokyo.

Looking for something different? See all hotels in Japan for more inspiration.

Please note: Rates are per room per night for 2 people sharing for selected stays in October and November 2009. Rates are correct at the 6th October 2009 and are subject to availability and may change at any time.

You don't need a Hollywood budget for a hotel stay in California!

Looking for somewhere to stay in California, but want to save your cash for experiencing the sights and sounds of this wonderful state? Well look no further than a Good Nite Inn.

Good Nite Inn are the number one economy hotel company in California. Offering a great place to stay and a complimentary Quick Start Continental Breakfast to boot, all for a fantastic price tag. If you're going to California it makes sense to book a Good Nite Inn. With 12 great locations across California, from Napa Valley Wine Country to San Francisco Bay Area, a Good Nite Inn is where you want to be.

We've chosen the top properties from Good Nite Inn and highlighted all the fantastic attractions you can visit with the money you save on your stay!

Good Nite Inn Buena Park  from $36
Local Attractions: Knott's Berry Farm, Disneyland, Anaheim Angeles Stadium and many more. Find out more>

Good Nite Inn Calabasas   from $51
Local Attractions: Just short drive from Malibu, Pepperdine University, Santa Monica and bustling LA. Find out more>

Good Nite Inn Camarillo   from $45
Local Attractions: Just a short drive from Los Angeles, Ventura and the Channel Islands and near the coast.  Find out more>

Good Nite Inn Fremont from $44
Local Attractions: Just a stone throw from enchanting San Francisco, in the heart of Silicon Valley.  Find out more>

Good Nite Inn Redwood City from $43
Local Attractions: Just off Highway 101 midway between San Francisco and San Jose. 10 minutes to Menlo College & Stanford University.
Find out more>

Good Nite Inn Rohnert Park from $49
Local Attractions: In the heart of the California Wine Country - Napa Valley, located between Petaluma and Santa Rosa.  Find out more>

Good Nite Inn Redlands from $36
Local Attractions: Perfect for the Joshua Tree National Park, Sycamore Canyon Wilderness Park, Box Springs Memorial Park and Big Bear Lake.  Find out more>

Good Nite Inn Chula Vista from $41
Local Attractions: Set in San Diego's warm, beach climate, with miles of breath-taking coastline, and an exciting metropolis to boot. 
Find out more>

Good Nite Inn San Diego from $45
Local Attractions: Just 5 minutes from Sea World, and with San Diego Wild Animal Park, the home of the NFL Chargers and Coronado Island on your doorstep.  Find out more>

So if you're looking for somewhere to stay in California that won't blow the budget think Good Nite Inn!

Please note: The quoted rates are per room per night for 2 persons sharing. Rates are correct at the 27th August 2009 for selected stays in September 2009.

Stay, Park and Fly with Arora Hotels

Make your holiday last longer with a stay at an Arora Airport Hotel!

Arora Hotels offer top class amenities with the added convenience of staying near an airport. Perfect for early morning departures or late night arrivals, these hotels have convenient locations near London’s busiest airports, Heathrow and Gatwick.

Not only do they offer fantastic rates, they also have breakfast and dinner inclusive options together with a range of park & fly rates, so you can tailor make your stay.

More and more people are driving to the airport to save money on taxi fares, and staying at a hotel at the airport is no longer the expensive option. With rates for 8 days parking and airport transfers at the Arora in Heathrow starting from just £87, not only is this an affordable solution to early morning flights, you also get to start your holiday one night earlier and get a restful sleep before you hop on your plane. Here are some of the great offers available with Arora:

Arora Heathrow – 4* Bath Road, Heathrow. Rates from £52 / £87 per night with 8 days parking & transport to the terminals, for a double room.

Arora Gatwick – 4* Southgate Avenue, Crawley. Rates from £55 / £89 per night with 8 days parking & transfer to the terminals, for a double room.

If you’re looking for a city break in the UK, Arora International also offers the downtown Arora International Manchester. Set in an historic building in the centre of town and with 5 fantastic Cliff Richard rooms, this hotel is a perfect choice for stays in Manchester whether you’re visiting for business, football, cricket, shopping or entertainment.

Arora Manchester – 4* - Princess Street, Manchester. Rates from £64 per night for a double room.

Start your holiday early with great service from Arora Hotels!

Last Night at the Proms – Classically British

Henry Wood’s vision for the Proms was to bring the widest possible range of music at the highest possible standard to the largest audience. Ticket prices in 1895 were kept low to attract the widest of audiences, with single performances costing a shilling (5p / 10c) or a guinea (£1 / $2) for a full season ticket. Staying true to its original concept, 2009 sees the 115th year of the Proms continuing the time honoured traditions.

The Proms are synonymous with the final concert, also known as the “Last Night of the Proms”, held in the spectacular Royal Albert Hall.  This year the “Last Night” is taking place on Saturday 12th September. Watched by an audience of millions around the globe, the Last Night is one of the most popular classical concerts in the world. Encapsulating the full essence of the Proms and its British-ness, yet with a lighter fun-filled atmosphere, tickets to the show are highly sought after and very difficult to get hold of.

To open the Last Night of the Proms to a wider audience, 1996 saw “Proms in the Park” introduced. Taking the music of the Proms outdoors into some of Britain’s finest parkland, 2009 hosts five open air concerts around the British Isles, including London’s Hyde Park,  Glasgow Green in Scotland, Hillsborough Castle in Northern Ireland, Buile Hill Park in Salford, Greater Manchester  and Singleton Park in Wales.

All Proms in the Park take place on Saturday the 12th September so we’ve selected some great hotels for each of the concerts that still have availability for the Prom date. Get a dose of quintessentially British tradition and entertainment - especially if the rain comes down - at Proms in the Park! 

Hyde Park, London England
Berjaya Eden Park Hotel, London – 4* from £88 
The Hyde Park Hotel, London – 4* from £109

Glasgow Green, Glasgow, Scotland
Glasgow Centrale Hotel , Glasgow – 4* from £85
Fraser Suites Glasgow, Glasgow – 4* from £81

Buile Hill Park , Salford, Manchester, England
The Place Apartment Hotel, Manchester – 4* - £72
Arora International Hotel, Manchester – 4* £64

Singleton Park, Swansea, Wales
The Vale Hotel Golf & Spa Resort, Cardiff – 4* from £135 (Just 40 minutes drive from the Swansea Prom)

Hillsborough Castle, County Down, Northern Ireland
Dunadry Hotel & Country Club, Belfast – 4* from £85
Malone Lodge Hotel & Apartments, Belfast – 4* from £105

Tickets for the Proms in the Park are still available, the BBC Proms website has all the details you need.

Rotana Hotels - Sizzling Summer Offers in the Middle East

   

The Middle East is a beautiful region spanning the south west of Asia and north east of Africa, rich with breath-taking scenery, design and architecture. With a year-round hot and dry climate, this area is perfect for travellers looking for a dose of sunshine.

Rotana Hotels operate 67 fabulous hotels across the region in cities such as Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Fujairah. Right now Rotana are now running a sensational Summer promotion on many of their hotels offering reduced rates throughout the Summer, so you can get your sunshine quota without burning through your cash. Summer promotional rates are available until the 15th September 2009, so if you want to get more sunshine exposure this is the perfect offer for you.

Here are a few of the best deals Rotana are offering this Summer:

Towers Rotana, 4*, Dubai, UAE - From 350 AED ($96/£59) 

Villa Rotana Suites, 4*, Dubai, UAE - From 400 AED ($109/£67) 

Al Murooj Rotana, 5*, Dubai, UAE - From 450 AED ($123/£75)

International Rotana, 3*, Abu Dhabi, UAE - From 325 AED ($89/£54)

The Cove Rotana Resort, 5*, Ras Al Khaimah, UAE - From 400 AED ($109/£67)

If you're looking to head to the Middle East, you can be sure that Rotana Hotels and hotelbook.com will take care of all your needs and provide you an ideal place to stay.

Stay independent this Summer with hotelbook.com!

Terms and Conditions
Rates are valid until 15th September 2009 and are subject to local tax and service charge. Rooms are subject to availability and are based on single or double occupancy.

Festival time in Osaka, Japan!

The Summer season in Osaka, Japan see's a host of festivals, many including spectacular fireworks displays. Read on for a taste of what this Summer holds....

Tenjin Matsuri - 24th & 25th July 2009
With more than 1,000 years of history, the Tenjin Matsuri is known as the "World's Greatest Boat Festival." Offering traditional Japanese music, theatrical puppet shows and parades on both land and river, the Tenjin Matsuri is a chance to experience Japan’s history on a grand scale. At dusk boats are set alight, followed by hypnotic hand-clapping. This festival is a way to experience a slice of Japan's history come to life.

Naniwa Yodogawa Fireworks Festival - 8th August 2009 Set near the Yodo river area, the Niniwa Yodogawa Fetival is one of the largest fireworks displays in Japan. With beautiful names such as peony, Chrysanthemum and waterfalls, these fireworks are sure to be a hit with all spectators. Hotebook tip: Arrive early to bag a great spot, and bring an umbrella just in case!

For more information on Osaka's Summer Festivals visit http://www.osaka-info.jp/en/

Recommended Osaka Hotel
The Imperial Hotel Osaka - 5* from 18,000 JPY ($184/£114).
Situated right next to the Okawa River where the action of Tenjin Matsuri happens, this is an ideal base for guests to watch the festivities in luxurious surroundings.

Stay independent in Osaka with hotelbook.com. View all our Osaka Hotels for more inspiration.

FREE UPGRADE OFFER - Hotel 987 Barcelona - Art in the heart of the City

The beautiful interiors of the Hotel 987 Barcelona are a delight to behold, with thoughtful design utilising the light to extraodinary effect. Guests are made welcome from the minute they enter the lobby, and will feel like a part of an artistic dream for the length of their stay.

Aside from the beautiful décor, the hotel has plenty more to offer the cosmopolitan guest. From gastronomic delights in their restaurant, to some of the best cocktails in Spain! Free Wifi access is also available throughout the hotel.

FREE UPGRADE PROMOTION: Throughout June, to coincide with the MOTO Grand Prix of Catalunya on the 14^th, Hotel 987 Barcelona is offering guests a fantastic upgrade deal, where guests receive an upgrade to a superior room with a terrace for the same price as a standard room. Rates for this promotion start from just 120€ for a twin/double room per night! Book now >

LAST MINUTE HOTEL DEALS: Alternatively if you're looking for a great dealfor a hotel in the next 7 days, you  can choose the LATEGETAWAYS rate which has a 15% discount off their standard price, with rooms starting at just 102€ for a twin / double room per night!                 See all our fantastic late deals >

Barcelona is a beautiful destination and the 987 Barcelona Hotel perfectly complements the essence of the city. Hotelbook.com has a great selection of hotels in Barcelona whatever you're looking for, see our full range, or find out more about the city with our Barcelona Travel Guide.

Great Bank Holiday Deals on Great British Hotels

In the UK, May is blessed with two bank holidays (4th and 25th in 2009), and it seems a shame to waste these precious days at home doing DIY or tending the garden, when there’s so much more to see and do! May's Bank Holidays offer a rare chance to explore the fantastic cities, beaches and countryside Britain has to offer, without dipping into your annual holiday allowance.

The origins of the May Day Bank Holiday, lay in pre-Christian Europe, where traditional celebrations such as crowning a May Queen and a Maypole were common place. The Whitsun (or Spring) Bank Holiday was fixed as the Monday after Pentecost, but now falls on the last Monday of the month. Many towns and villages still celebrate Bank Holidays with traditional events such as cheese-rolling and Morris dancing, but if you’re looking to make the most of these holidays, read on…

Weekend breaks in Britain are more popular than ever this year, and fantastic bargains are there to be found. Hotels are offering cut-priced deals, even over the bank holiday weekends, making a break away in Britain even better value!

Explore the many faces of Britain.....

Relaxing Britain - A sumptuous Spa break in Yorkshire. Take time out from the 9 to 5 and immerse yourself in the beautiful surroundings of the 17th century Hellaby Hall Hotel in South Yorkshire. With rates from just £55* per night, you can treat yourself to an indulgent Pamper day package while you're there.

Urban Britain - Shop 'til you drop in Manchester. With its vibrant town centre neatly packed together and a Harvey Nicks to boot, Manchester is becoming one of the best places to shop in Britain. Feel like a local in loft-style apartment at The Place Apartment Hotel in the heart of the city, with rates from just £87*.

Seaside Britain - Stroll along the Prom..Prom..Prom in Brighton. When the sun shines in Brighton the Promenade is all you need for entertainment. With street dancers, outdoor basketball, bars with live music and much more. The Royal Albion Hotel, from just £109*, is a perfect starting point to take a stroll along Brighton's world-famous Prom and Pier.

Natural Britain - The Great Outdoors - Explore the Cotswolds. The Costwolds is an area of natural beauty the UK can really boast about. A perfect destination for those who love to explore quaint villages set amongst rolling countryside. Stay in the beautiful Hare and Hounds Hotel in Westonbirt near Tetbury from just £85* set in acres of well tended gardens with outdoor tennis courts and surrounded by a cool woodland area.

Whatever you do with your May Bank Holidays, make the most of your time off and let's hope for some sunshine!

*All rates quoted are the total cost per room per night, for 2 people sharing either a twin or double room in May 2009.

Traveling this week? Great LATEGETAWAYS deals for travel in next 7 days

If you are traveling last minute, many hotels on hotelbook are offering great deals. Look out for the LATEGETAWAYS™* rate if you are booking a hotel room and traveling within 7 days of your stay at a hotel. 

The LATEGETAWAYS rates must be booked and prepaid within seven days of arrival and are non cancellable - but they do offer extremely good value if you are confident your plans are not going to change.

Some samples of some of the rates I have found on hotelbook (with discounts on regular rates) are shown below.

• Chandler Inn Hotel, Boston, USA - Rates from $145 (Up to 27% off)
• Maudes Hotel Enskede, Stockholm, Sweden - Rates from SEK 850 (up to 43% off)
• Amara Singapore, Singapore - Rates from SGD 200 (up to 20% off)
• Emeraude Lodge Du Centre Hotel, Paris, France - Rates from EUR 85 (up to 15% off)
• Beacon Hotel, Dublin, Ireland - Rates from EUR 130 (up to 28% off)

The rates I found are per room per night and are subject to availability at time of booking. Rates were correct as of 24th April 2009 for stays between 24th April and 01st May 2009.

Private club - Soho House Hotel, New York City opens its doors

The Soho House Hotel, an exclusive private members club in New York  is now bookable on hotelbook.com. The waiting list for membership of the Soho House New York is long, but hotel guests are members for the duration of their stay, with access to all the club has to offer; including 24 hour butler service, the Cowshed spa, and a rooftop pool with views over the Hudson and the West Village. You're assured reservations at the restaurant and bar. 

Rooms at the Soho House Hotel in New York's fashionable Meatpacking District start at $450.

Business Hotels in Germany - Golden Leaf Hotels & Residences

Germany has a history as the home of big businesses, of Interbrand’s 2008 Top 100 Global Brands, 10 were German including some of the great automobile manufacturers such as Audi, BMW and Porsche, but others such as Nivea, Adidas and Siemens may not be as well known for their German heritage. Germany is a nation known for it’s efficiency in business processes and high quality production and many of these businesses are located in and around its key cities such as Munich, Frankfurt and Stuttgart.

Golden Leaf Hotels & Residences

All Golden Leaf Hotels & Residences combine the standards of a hotel chain with those of independently owned hotels, that is why they fit perfectly with hotelbook.com’s philosophy of “Stay Independent”. Each Golden Leaf property preserves an individuality and unique regional character, be it Bavarian style in Munich, traditional Bauhaus in Frankfurt or the contemporary design of their Stuttgart hotel.

What’s more, right now there are some great last minute deals from Golden Leaf Hotels starting from as little as 45€!*

Munich

Home to BMW, Munich is the capital of Bavaria and is Germany’s 3rd largest city. Situated in the south, Munich is famous for it’s Oktoberfest beer festival, but is also one of the main commercial centres of Germany today. Golden Leaf have 3 hotels to choose from in and around Munich:

3* Golden Leaf Hotel Altmunchen - This hotel offers guests a friendly atmosphere and wonderful buffet style breakfast in a central yet off the beaten track location in the Au district of Munich. Bus connections to the centre are just 50 metres from the hotel or you can take a gentle stroll in just 30 minutes.

3* Golden Leaf Parkhotel Im Lehel - Friendly, high quality service and comfortable, well furnished rooms can be expected from Golden Leaf Parkhotel Im Lehel. Located in the Lehel district of Munich this hotel also benefits from a central yet quiet location with the historical Marienplatz within 10 minutes walk.

3* Golden Leaf Hotel Perlach Allee Hof - Slightly further out of Munich’s centre you will find the Golden Leaf Hotel Perlach Allee Hof, but if you’re looking for an oasis from the hustle of the city life, this hotel could be perfect. With train connections to the city centre within 5 minutes from the hotel and easy access to motorways, this hotel is perfect for those with or without a car.

Stuttgart and Frankfurt

You will find another of the super-car manufacturers in Stuttgart the capital of Baden-Württemberg, this time it is Porsche, world-renown for speed and elegance in design, and not to be left out Frankfurt (or Frankfurt am Main), the largest city in the Hesse state is Germany’s financial centre and also home to the everyday Frankfurter sausage! Golden Leaf have a charming hotel in each of these cities, perfect as a base for a business stay or to see the sights these great cities have to offer.

3* Golden Leaf Hotel Stuttgart - Stuttgart - Within easy reach of Porsche itself, the Golden Leaf Hotel Stuttgart offers great connections to the city centre through public and private transport. The hotel offers a friendly atmosphere and service with hearty breakfast buffets served everyday.

3* Golden Leaf Hotel Frankfurt – Frankfurt am Main - Offering a selection of accommodation from standard guestrooms to executive suites, the Golden Leaf Hotel Frankfurt is perfect for extended business stays. With ample desk-space and in-room kitchenettes this hotel offers a home-from-home feel in the east side of the centre of Frankfurt.

If you’re visiting Germany for business or pleasure, why not choose Golden Leaf Hotels & Residences for great-value hotel stays and high levels of service.