Travelore Tips: Top 10 Places For Chocolate

Chocolate-dipped churros from Chocolatería San Ginés sustain a group of Madrid young people after a night out.

Photograph by Miguel Pereira

From the National Geographic book Food Journeys of a Lifetime

1. Maison Cailler, Broc, Switzerland

   Tour the home of one of Switzerland's oldest chocolate brands in the Swiss village of Broc, where Cailler has operated a plant since 1898. See how the famed chocolate is produced, then treat your senses with a generous sampling in the factory's tasting room.
   Planning: Visits take up to an hour and a half. Nearby are walking paths and trails for hikers. Go for a climb or walk the footpath along Lake Gruyère.

2. Magnolia Bakery, New York City

   This cozy little 1950s-style bakery shot to fame when characters from the TV series Sex and the City stopped by for a cupcake-fueled sugar rush. As well as red velvet chocolate cupcakes, the bakery dispenses a rainbow of brightly colored cupcakes, plus banana pudding, cookies, cherry cheesecake, and brownies. The German chocolate cake is a high point.
   Planning: Magnolia has four outlets—including the Bleecker Street branch featured in Sex and the City.

3. Max Brenner, New York City. Also has location in Philadelphia

   Known for its hot chocolate served in a specially designed hand-warming “hug mug,” the Broadway shop and restaurant offer a mind-boggling array of cacao-based product from chocolate truffle martini and chocolate fondue to Young’s chocolate stout.
   Planning: Max Brenner is at 841 Broadway and 141 Second Avenue.  Philadelphia. 1500 Walnut St, Philadelphia, PA 19102
   (215) 344-8150

4. Maya Chocolate, Tabasco, Mexico

   Here in the likely birthplace of chocolate—the word itself possibly deriving from the Maya xocoatl—taste hot chocolate Maya style: thick, foamy, bittersweet, and flavored with chili peppers. The Spanish conquistadors tempered the bitter brew with sugar, cinnamon, ground almonds, and milk. Try it both ways.
   Planning: Comalcalco, Tabasco, has a cacao museum and cacao haciendas.

5. Sachertorte, Vienna, Austria

   A chocolate sponge cake, thinly coated by hand with apricot jam and then covered with dark chocolate icing, Sachertorte is named for its 1832 inventor, Franz Sacher. He created the dessert to impress his employer, Klemens Wenzel, Prince von Metternich, gaining fame and fortune for himself. In 1876 his son Eduard opened Vienna’s Hotel Sacher—visit the splendid café or one of Vienna’s four Sacher shops.
   Planning: Top your Sachertorte with unsweetened whipped cream and drink it with coffee or champagne.

From the National Geographic book Food Journeys of a Lifetime

1. Maison Cailler, Broc, Switzerland

   Tour the home of one of Switzerland's oldest chocolate brands in the Swiss village of Broc, where Cailler has operated a plant since 1898. See how the famed chocolate is produced, then treat your senses with a generous sampling in the factory's tasting room.
   Planning: Visits take up to an hour and a half. Nearby are walking paths and trails for hikers. Go for a climb or walk the footpath along Lake Gruyère.

2. Magnolia Bakery, New York City

   This cozy little 1950s-style bakery shot to fame when characters from the TV series Sex and the City stopped by for a cupcake-fueled sugar rush. As well as red velvet chocolate cupcakes, the bakery dispenses a rainbow of brightly colored cupcakes, plus banana pudding, cookies, cherry cheesecake, and brownies. The German chocolate cake is a high point.
   Planning: Magnolia has four outlets—including the Bleecker Street branch featured in Sex and the City.

3. Max Brenner, New York City

   Known for its hot chocolate served in a specially designed hand-warming “hug mug,” the Broadway shop and restaurant offer a mind-boggling array of cacao-based product from chocolate truffle martini and chocolate fondue to Young’s chocolate stout.
   Planning: Max Brenner is at 841 Broadway and 141 Second Avenue.

4. Maya Chocolate, Tabasco, Mexico

   Here in the likely birthplace of chocolate—the word itself possibly deriving from the Maya xocoatl—taste hot chocolate Maya style: thick, foamy, bittersweet, and flavored with chili peppers. The Spanish conquistadors tempered the bitter brew with sugar, cinnamon, ground almonds, and milk. Try it both ways.
   Planning: Comalcalco, Tabasco, has a cacao museum and cacao haciendas.

5. Sachertorte, Vienna, Austria

   A chocolate sponge cake, thinly coated by hand with apricot jam and then covered with dark chocolate icing, Sachertorte is named for its 1832 inventor, Franz Sacher. He created the dessert to impress his employer, Klemens Wenzel, Prince von Metternich, gaining fame and fortune for himself. In 1876 his son Eduard opened Vienna’s Hotel Sacher—visit the splendid café or one of Vienna’s four Sacher shops.
   Planning: Top your Sachertorte with unsweetened whipped cream and drink it with coffee or champagne.

1. Hot Chocolate, Turin, Italy

   In Italy’s chocolate capital, sip a cioccolato caldo. This winter-buster comes very thick, hot, and agreeably bitter, topped generously with whipped cream. Samplebicerin, a layered hot-chocolate-and-espresso drink served in glass cups, available only in Turin, or try giandujotto, a foil-wrapped, chocolate-hazelnut candy.
   Planning: Visit in February for the chocolate festival, Cioccola-Tò. Buy a Choco-Pass at the tourist office and get discounts on sweet treats around the city.

2. Valrhona Chocolate, Tain l’Hermitage, France

   In wine-making country, on the Rhône’s left bank, visit the home of Valrhonachocolate, favored by many of the world’s leading chocolatiers and chefs. Unusually, the chocolate is made only with natural fat from cocoa butter; no vegetable fat is added. Chocoholics will enjoy the chance to sample or buy at the factory shop, while professional chefs can study at Valrhona’s École du Grand Chocolat, a chocolate-cookery school.
   Planning: The factory shop opens daily except Sundays. Explore the medieval city of Tournon, across the river.

3. Chocolate and Churros, Madrid, Spain

   Few institutions offer better evidence of Madrid’s insomnia than its perennially popular chocolaterías (also known as churrerías), typically abuzz with late-night revelers from 4 a.m. to breakfast time. Their trademark dish is the churro, a long waffle-like stick of savory fried dough, eaten dunked into very thick bittersweet hot chocolate. Stop in at the venerable Chocolatería San Ginés, an 1894 throwback. Expect entertainingly brusque service, bright lights, and a frenzied atmosphere.
   Planning: Chocolatería San Ginés is downtown on Pasadizo San Ginés. It's open all night.

4. Nemesis, River Café, London, England

   One of London’s best restaurants and the spawning ground of many a celebrity chef, including Jamie Oliver, the café’s signature dessert is the Chocolate Nemesis cake. Gooey with a slight crust on top, it gains its richness from a staggering quantity of chocolate.
   Planning: Chocoholics can join a Chocolate Ecstasy Tour of London.

5. Chocolate Hotel, Bournemouth, England

   To eat, breathe, and sleep chocolate, where better to stay than this chocolate-theme hotel? Chocolate-tasting and chocolate-making classes ensure that chocoholics leave satisfied.
   Planning: The hotel is on West Cliff, near both beach and downtown. Work up an appetite by walking along the town’s magnificent beach.

Travelore Tips: 5 Free Things To Do In Atlanta

Contributed by Kate Brumback, AP.

FILE- In this Nov. 20, 2012 file photo, a couple walks along the Atlanta BeltLine as the midtown skyline stands in the background in Atlanta. The Atlanta BeltLine is an urban redevelopment project that aims to turn an old 22-mile railroad corridor that rings the city’s in-town neighborhoods into a network of trails, parks, affordable housing and, eventually, transit. So far, only the 2.2-mile Eastside Trail has opened, with skyline views and regularly changing public art installations providing added scenery for those who walk, bike and jog along the path. (AP Photo/David Goldman, File)

 Many people who visit Atlanta for the hundreds of conventions the city hosts each year never make it out of the few blocks around their hotels. But the city has much more to offer, and some attractions are even free.

Atlanta is a diverse, cosmopolitan city that is home to major corporations' headquarters, world-class cultural institutions and restaurants helmed by award-winning chefs. It has a rich cultural and political history, plus parks and trails to keep outdoor enthusiasts busy during the many months of the year when Atlanta's latitude makes it pleasant to be outside. Here are five free things to do and see on your next trip to Atlanta.

MARTIN LUTHER KING JR. HISTORIC SITE

The historic site is operated by the National Park Service. A film and an exhibition of photos, text and video clips in the visitor's center give a comprehensive overview of the civil rights movement and Martin Luther King Jr.'s leadership role. Up the street is the home where King was born. Tours of the birth home are free but must be reserved in person the day of the tour at the Martin Luther King Jr. Center for Nonviolent Social Change. The crypts of King and his wife, Coretta Scott King, sit in the middle of a reflecting pool outside The King Center. A few steps away, visitors can walk through Ebenezer Baptist Church, where King and his father served as pastors.

SWEET AUBURN CURB MARKET

Nearby lies the Sweet Auburn Historic District, which was a major economic, cultural and political center for African-American life for the first half of the 20th century, before a major highway bisected the neighborhood and decades of urban decline followed. Originally known as the Municipal Market, the Sweet Auburn Curb Market is now an urban farmers market that provides a lively atmosphere for browsing and grabbing lunch. Stalls run by butchers feature pigs' ears and feet, oxtails and many other animal parts and cuts of meat stacked neatly in trays behind glass. Produce vendors offer heaping stacks of collard greens, turnips and other seasonal produce. Prepared food stands offer a wide variety of lunch options, but it's fun to browse whether or not you buy.

THE BELTLINE

The Atlanta BeltLine is a redevelopment project that aims to turn an old 22-mile (35-kilometer) railroad corridor that rings the city's in-town neighborhoods into a network of trails, parks, affordable housing and, eventually, transit. So far, only the 2.2-mile (3.5-kilometer) Eastside Trail has opened, with skyline views and regularly changing public art installations providing added scenery for those who walk, bike and jog along the path.

PIEDMONT PARK

Sitting at one end of the BeltLine's completed Eastside Trail is Piedmont Park. Like New York's Central Park, the nearly 200-acre (80-hectare) green space in Midtown gives Atlanta residents and visitors a tranquil setting to picnic, play games, walk their dogs and relax in the meadow or along the shores of Lake Clara Meer. The park also hosts major city events, like the Dogwood Festival in April and the Music Midtown festival in September, and the finish line of the annual 10-kilometer Fourth of July Peachtree Road Race.

OAKLAND CEMETERY

The graves of dozens of Atlanta mayors and six Georgia governors, as well as the rich and poor of different races and different religions dot the gentle hills of Oakland Cemetery. Some of the most famous residents are "Gone With the Wind" author Margaret Mitchell and golf legend Bobby Jones, as well as rows and rows of Confederate soldiers. Despite the surrounding busy streets and the clanking and beeping from the adjacent freight rail terminal, the 48-acre (19.4-hectare) cemetery feels calm and peaceful. Self-guided tours are free whenever the cemetery is open.

Most Expensive Artwork Ever Sold At Auction Now On Display At The Portland Art Museum.

PORTLAND, Ore. (AP)

In New York last month, an anonymous collector paid more than $142 million for the "Three Studies of Lucian Freud" - a 1969 triptych by Francis Bacon. The museum is on highest alert for the next three months as it exhibits the work before it heads to the owner's private collection.

Two drivers transported the panels across the country, ensuring the climate-controlled truck was always on the move and never left alone, The Oregonian reported (http://is.gd/YOefCs ).

GPS ensured the drivers didn't veer off course and sensors attached to the three separate crates would signal excessive movement or temperature changes. Cameras and guards are on duty 24 hours, and the museum will add security if larger-than-expected crowds arrive.

"I'm thrilled," chief curator Bruce Guenther told the newspaper late last week as workers finished hanging the work. "This is going to be so wonderful for the city. This is a town that loves figurative art."

Guenther, the only museum staffer who knows the owner's identity, said he didn't have to twist arms to land the record-breaking piece. He called the owner soon after the Nov. 11 auction. "This is an interesting notion," the owner said, according to Guenther. "Why do you think we'd want to do that?"

"That was an open door," Guenther said.

No one has seen the work since 1999. Each panel has a warm, egg-yolk yellow background, and a green, textured foreground. In each, Freud, an artist and grandson of Sigmund Freud, sits on a chair inside a cage or room, right leg crossed over his left knee.

The piece went on view Dec. 21 and will remain so through March 30.

This is not the first time the Portland Art Museum has handled irreplaceable works. It has previously shown single works by Rembrandt, Titian and Raphael under its "Masterworks/Portland" series.

___

Information from: The Oregonian, http://www.oregonlive.com

Jamaica Unplugged: This New Year Consider Taking A Short Vacation From Televisions, Radios, And Clocks.

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Travelore Tips- 5 Free Things To Do In Madrid

Contributed by Harold Heckle, AP.

 Spain has for decades been among the world's top tourist destinations, mainly thanks to sun-seekers who flock each year to Mediterranean beaches or the Canary Islands. The Spanish capital, with its vast array of bars, restaurants and a rocket-propelled nightlife that often causes traffic jams at 3 a.m., has always appealed to fun-lovers as well as travelers with an interest in history and culture. While top-end hotels and restaurants are expensive, it comes as a relief to find that some of Madrid's best features can be enjoyed for free.

PRADO

Few museums boast a permanent collection as rich and historically important as that of Madrid's El Prado. For anyone with an interest in art, it is a must-see.

Many of the Prado's works were collected or commissioned by Spain's art-loving royalty in centuries past when the country was a fabulously wealthy superpower with a vast, global empire. Then, in 1819, King Ferdinand VII opened the doors of his private collection to the public. The collection was later boosted by the contents of two major museums.

Among masterworks on show are the iconic "The Annunciation," painted by Fra Angelico in the 15th century, Hieronymus Bosch's vivid 16th century triptych "The Garden of Earthly Delights" and Albrecht Duerer's piercing "Self-portrait." However, the museum's most popular works are the remarkably versatile Francisco Goya's canvases, etchings and tapestries - including his Black Paintings, such as "Saturn devouring one of his sons" - and, notably, Diego Velazquez's priceless masterworks including "Las Meninas."

Around 2 million people visit the Prado each year. Normally, admission costs 14 euros ($19), but, for those in the know, there is a way to get in for free. Every day from Monday-Saturday, access is free between 6 p.m. and 8 p.m., while on Sundays and public holidays it is from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. For those able to plan ahead, each year there are two whole days where entry is free: Nov. 19 (the Prado's anniversary) and May 18 (International Museum Day). Details: http://www.museodelprado.es/en/. ?

RETIRO

At the heart of Madrid lies Retiro Park, a beautifully tended 350-acre (1.4 square-kilometer) garden space where city-dwellers go to get away from the metropolitan hubbub. Originally the formal gardens of a medieval palace, it became King Philip II's 16th century refuge from court preoccupations, as well as his religious retreat - hence its name.

Retiro offers all you would expect from a showcase city park: leafy walks, bicycle rides, superb horticulture, row-boats and cooling fountains. But it is also packed with cultural surprises. It contains three free museums - Casa de Vacas, Palacio de Velazquez and Palacio de Cristal - the last being a wonderfully preserved iron-framed glasshouse. Napoleon Bonaparte's invading army camped here in the early 1800s and razed the palace, but a fisherman's cottage from the era survived. Children shriek with delight at a proper, brick-built puppet theatre and grown-ups muse over games of chess or watch an ancient form of bowling that uses a semi-circular object pitched overarm at the pins. Details: http://www.madridtourist.info/buen_retiro_park.html.

DEBOD

As dusk approaches, strolling couples head west to the Temple of Debod, one of Madrid's oldest buildings - if not the oldest. It is one of very few early Egyptian temples visible outside that country and was given to Spain in 1960 in a bid to save it from flood damage when the Aswan dam was built across the Nile. Dedicated in antiquity to the worship of the gods Amun and Isis, its graceful lines showcase the timeless beauty of pharaonic architecture. Today the temple is situated on the eastern ridge of the Manzanares River valley, where the setting sun bathes it in golden hues as the azure sky above darkens, making it one of Madrid's most romantic spots. Free cultural events are regularly organized within its exquisitely-proportioned chapel. Details: http://www.madridtourist.info/debod_temple.html.

MATADERO

Matadero was, from 1911 to 1996, Madrid's main slaughterhouse and livestock market, where herds of cattle were even trotted in on foot. The 45-acre (18-hectare) complex, today a creative center, was designed in the modernist neo-Mudejar style of architecture typical of early 20th century Madrid. It includes a space devoted to design, where graphic, industrial and interior decoration artists can be seen in action. Other buildings include a television studio, a hall for books and reading, a workshop used as a meeting place by the city's artists, and at least two theaters, some hosting professional, paid-for works. But there is always plenty happening here for free. Details: http://www.mataderomadrid.org/.

JUAN MARCH FOUNDATION

Juan March was a wealthy financier who bequeathed Madrid a richly endowed foundation that today hosts some of the capital's most exciting musical events, film screenings and art exhibitions, all free. Dotted around the building are sculptures by renowned artists such as Eduardo Chillida, while inside music-lovers can enjoy orchestral symphonies, intimate chamber music or jazz, in a concert hall with admired acoustics. A well-appointed gallery also offers top-quality art exhibitions with objects often sourced from top museums around the world. Details: http://www.march.es.

Hot Destinations And Top Travel Trends

Contributed by Emily Fisher 

As we wrap up another eventful year in travel, it’s a great time to sneak a peek at what’s ahead.

The rise of the super airline

For travelers in the U.S., one of the biggest stories of the past year is the rise of the super airline. With the merger of American Airlines and US Airways, United Airlines’ rule as the largest airline ended less than a year into its new life. Last March, Continental Airlines was fully integrated into United – the fruit of two years’ worth of work.

It will take American and US Airways time to combine their resources too, but consumers can expect changes to start early in 2014. Most notable will be when US Airways drops its membership in the Star Alliance to join oneworld. This shift in the international airline partner base will leave heavy mileage accumulators and frequent overseas travelers with some homework and head scratching to do — and maybe some tough decisions to make. It might also encourage folks who have been planning to cash in for a big trip to get moving. The switch over happens on March 31/April 1, 2014.

The new American (Image: American Airlines)

With United, Delta and the new American all truly super sized, these large airlines are sure to be very busy competing with one another with a lot of focus on international travel and amenities like lay flat beds in first class (even on domestic flights). For the price-conscious traveler, there may be less to love on those major airlines as nickel and diming for basics — like a few more inches of leg room — becomes even more prevalent.

However, this battle among the power airlines will likely leave room for newer and smaller players competing on base price to emerge, for established “budget” airlines like Southwest and JetBlue to gain even more ground and for regional airlines like Hawaiian Airlines and Alaska Airlines to expand the number of markets they serve.

Travel hot spots

In 2013, a number of new travel hot spots began to emerge (or reemerge). Domestic travel is still by far the most popular in the United States, but we did find that people are increasingly including the U.S. territories in their vacation plans. Searches to St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands, jumped 40 percent while those to St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands, where up 34 percent. Puerto Rico also saw a 10 percent spike in popularity.

Good budget airline service can also deliver a boost to the popularity of a destination. Two prime examples: Denver, Colo., and Myrtle Beach, S.C. Denver is not only a great city and jumping off point for a mountain getaway but also a strategic low-cost carrier hub. Southwest, Frontier, JetBlue and Spirit all serve Denver International and the competition works in the traveler’s favor. So it’s no surprise that Denver saw a 17 percent increase in travel searches for the year. Likewise, Myrtle Beach’s small but growing airport now offers non-stop flights to 25 different cities – the majority offered by low-cost carriers Spirit Airlines and Allegiant Airlines. That has served as pricing pressure on the flights US Airways, United and Delta offer into Myrtle Beach, which led to a 20 percent increase in travelers looking to visit this southern beach town.

All year we’ve been tracking Los Cabos’ continued appeal as a year-round beach destination with something to offer at pretty much any price point. Despite the troubles that have plagued many parts of Mexico, Los Cabos has been a relative safe haven for tourists. Now, as Mexico tourism begins to bounce back for many parts of the country, Los Cabos is leading the pack. In 2013, we saw a 4 percent increase in travel searches to Los Cabos.

For 2014, we see signs U.S. travelers will continue to chase warm weather and sunshine, look for new bargain destinations and travel for events. Here are some destination trends to watch for:

The year of Brazil

With the Olympics on the horizon and the World Cup coming this summer (June 12 to July 13), Brazil is working hard to be a welcoming host country to sports fans and tourists in general. Already a popular destination, especially during Carnival, Brazil is building out infrastructure for its major upcoming events. Even so, capacity is tight. If you’re planning to visit during the World Cup, act now. Even during the offseason, it’s advisable to book four months in advance.

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil (Image: pedrokirilos)

Paying homage in Europe

2014 is the 100th anniversary of the start of World War I so this may be a year for history buffs and family members to visit the battlefields to reconnect with and remember loved ones who sacrificed across Europe in the “war to end all wars.”

Caribbean distinction

Images of crystal blue water and white sandy beaches are the ubiquitous daydream of the Caribbean. However the islands have a mix of cultures, climates and currencies that make it worthwhile to do your homework before you book. Some recent changes, especially in the Dutch Antilles, mean some key island countries have new-found autonomy. As a result, they have – and will – continue to ramp up how they market themselves.

Be prepared to see an increase in other parts of the Caribbean pushing what makes them stand out. Price will be one point but so will ease of access (for example, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands with no passport requirements for Americans), travel style (nightlife versus beach views, family versus adventure, chic versus laid back) and activities (diving and bare boating – or cruise ships and shops).

Staying ahead of the crowds

As deal destinations get popular, they lose their unique appeal-of-the-new charm – and their bargain status. The challenge is to spot the next wave of alternatives and beat the growing crowds and climbing prices. This year’s list: instead of Costa Rica, try Nicaragua. Skip Malta and head for Albania. Swap Bulgaria for Estonia. Opt for Laos over Vietnam

The connected passenger

As we flip the calendar, we are in the heyday of a major transition in terms of the individual flier’s travel experience. Gone are the days of simply reading a book or flipping through a magazine to pass the time on a flight. Whether you are watching satellite TV or playing trivia against your cabin mates on the airplane’s infotainment system or, more likely, glued to your tablet, laptop or phone for videos, games or news from the outside world, you are now a “connected passenger.”

Inside a Virgin America plane (Image: Albert Domasin)

The rules and technology will push this trend even further over the next 12 to 36 months. In-flight WiFi is on the verge of blazing new speeds with vendors eyeing satellite technology to deliver more capacity. Meanwhile, the FAA has relaxed the rules about personal electronic device use below 10,000 feet so you will soon find you can keep reading, playing your games and watching your movies right through landing and takeoff.

The real question now is whether you will be able to chat away on your cell phone during flights. The debate is on as the FCC is currently considering lifting a ban on cell phone use on planes. Some members of Congress are already moving to block in-flight calls.

Travelore Tips: Last-Minute New Year's Eve Hotel Deals

The Trump SoHo New York

There's something about New Year's Eve. It's the one holiday that screams for a luxurious hotel suite, some champagne on ice and a glitzy party at your disposal downstairs. Trouble is, the best rooms in the world book up fast, leaving last minute hopefuls in a lurch for proper accommodations. But fear not, procrastinators. We've surveyed the best hotels in our favorite cities all over the world, taking note of availability and any special packages. And, we'll update the list one more time for you true last-minute daredevils on December 30. But beware of the two-night minimum. Our best advice? Book while time is still on your side!

Chicago

Renaissance Blackstone Chicago Hotel
Availability: 32%
Types of rooms available: Standard Room, starting at $195; Standard King, starting at $229; Standard 2 Queens, starting at $239; Lake View Room, starting at $249; Executive Room, starting at $259
Holiday Offer: Get up to $100 off your room when staying the night before or the night after New Year's Eve.

JW Marriott Chicago
Availability: 30%
Types of rooms available: Standard Room, starting at $159 (with group booking code‚ NEWA‚ call 866-270-6430 or online); Luxury Suites, starting at $239
New Year's Eve Party: The Grand Ballroom hosts a four-hour cocktail reception, with bites by Chef Russell Shearer and a pasta buffet, and tunes from DJ Asiatic, DJ Katy, and local band Stache. Party includes midnight Champagne toast and confetti storm, chance to win a night in the hotel's luxury penthouse, extended check-in and check-out, and more. Package for two for $390 with rate code EVE; reservations can be made by calling 312-660-8200 or online.

Trump International Hotel & Tower
Availability: Low (11%–30% availability)
Types of rooms available: Superior King, starting at $475; Deluxe King City View, starting at $475; Spa Deluxe King, starting at $475; Spa Executive King, starting at $650; Deluxe King Suite City View, starting at $775; Deluxe King Suite River View, starting at $825
Holiday Offer: Get a 10% discount for a two-night stay and a 25% discount for stays of three or more nights.

Sofitel Chicago Water Tower
Availability: 25%
Type of room available: Luxury King, starting at $255; Suites, starting at $395

Kimpton's Hotel Palomar in Chicago
Availability: 70%
Types of rooms available: Standard Rooms, starting from $219; Premier Spa Rooms, starting at $289

 

Las Vegas

Four Season Hotel Las Vegas
Availability: 15%
Types of rooms available: Superior rooms, starting at $499; Strip View Rooms, starting at $589; Suites, starting at $639. Two-night minimum required; room rate does not include $25 nightlfy resort fee.

 

Los Angeles

Four Season Hotel Los Angeles at Beverly Hills
Availability: Low (11%–30% availability)
Types of rooms available: Deluxe Balcony Rooms, starting at $665; Four Seasons Executive Suite, starting at $885

Sunset Marquis Hotel & Villas
Availability: High (more than 61% availability)
Types of rooms available: Executive floor suites, starting at $300
Holiday Offer: The New Year's Eve Party will feature a selection of food, a midnight Champagne toast, and live entertainment. Starting at $125 per person.

Beverly Wilshire, A Four Seasons Hotel in Beverly Hills
Availability: Low (11%–30% availability)
Types of room available: Signature room, starting at $695; Beverly suite, starting at $1,050

 

London

The Stafford London by Kempinski
Availability: Extremely low (less than 10% availability)
Types of rooms available: Standard room, starting at £395; Suites, starting at £1,260.

St. Pancras Renaissance London Hotel
Availability: Low (11%–30% availability)
Types of rooms available: Barlow Premium from £380; Chambers Junior Suite from £525; Chambers Staircase Suite from £900; Royal Suite from £5,000. Two-night minimum required.

The Athenaeum
Availability: 20%
Types of rooms available: Deluxe room, starting at £358.29; Park view room, starting at £420.17; Mayfair & Green Park Suites starting at £618.19; Apartments starting at £866.34
Holiday Offer: Guests booking accommodations via the property's US dollar rates receive a second room in the same category for 50% off. Rates include full English breakfast, all drinks and snacks from minibar, complimentary Wi-Fi, tax of 20%, and kids under 12 eat free. Guests booking three nights at the hotel will receive a one-way car transfer from any London airport. Book five nights and receive a complimentary round-trip transfer. For more information or to book call: 1-800-335-3300.

St James Hotel & Club
Availability: Extremely low (less than 10% availability)
Types of rooms available: Deluxe Suites £876
Holiday Offer: January Sales Extravaganza. Extend your stay into January in the Deluxe Suite for £576, including breakfast and a £100 gift voucher for Harrods or Selfridges.

The Savoy
Availability: Low (11%–30% availability)
Types of rooms available: Standard room, starting at £726 including VAT; Suites, starting at £1824 including VAT
Holiday Offer: New Year's Eve at The Savoy. Toast 2014 with 1920s-inspired celebrations in The Savoy's ballroom, a four-course dinner, followed by dancing to the 11-piece Jazz Orchestra and live bands. From £1,244 Inc VAT including accommodation, dinner for two. Rate is based on double occupancy in a Savoy Superior room, subject to availability.

 

Milwaukee

The Iron Horse Hotel
Availability: Medium (31%–60% availability)
Type of Room: Standard Custom Deluxe rooms, starting at $399; Corner Alcove Kings, starting at $499
Holiday Offer: New Year's Eve Package. Dance the night away to a live DJ and enjoy a midnight balloon drop. Rooms offer sparkling wine, VIP turndown service, a special gift, a 20% discount at Mercantile gift shop and New Year's Day brunch for two at Smyth restaurant. Starting at $399.

 

New Orleans

Loews New Orleans Hotel
Availability: Low (11%–30% availability)
Types of rooms available: Deluxe Rooms, starting at $369; Grand Rooms, starting at $419. Two-night minimum required.

Ritz Carlton New Orleans
Availability: 15%
Types of rooms available: Deluxe King Room, starting at $549; Executive Suites, starting at $899; Club Level King Rooms, starting at $849

The Windsor Court Hotel
Availability: 7%
Types of rooms available: One Bedroom Full Suite, starting at $407.50; Club Level One Bedroom Full Suites, starting at $557.50; Two bedroom Penthouse Suite, starting at $4,500. Two-night minimum required.

The Hotel Monteleone
Availability: 45%
Types of rooms available: Traditional rooms, starting at $299; Preferred rooms, starting at $329; Suites, starting at $579

 

NYC

Gramercy Park Hotel
Availability: Low (11%–30% availability)
Types of rooms available: Suites, starting at $1,300.
Holiday Offer: Toast the New Year package: Champagne and Le Labo candle on arrival, "Breakfast on Gramercy Park" room service for two, Rose Bar Party entry, and a NYE Hangover Cure Kit (Alka-Seltzer, sparkling water, mini vodka bottle, two cans of V8, saltines), 2 p.m. late check out.

Mandarin Oriental New York
Availability: Low (11%–30% availability)
Types of rooms available: City View Room, starting at $955; Hudson River View Room, starting at $1,155; Premier Central Park View Room, staring at $1,355

Trump SoHo New York
Availability: Medium (31%–60% availability)
Types of rooms available: King rooms, from $610; One-bedroom suites, from $960; Penthouses, from $3,500
Holiday Offers:

New Year's Renewal: Breakfast in bed, detox treatment at The Spa at Trump SoHo (steam bath, full-body clay mask, pressure point head massage), late check-out. Two-night minimum stay required. Starting at $680 per night.

Stay + Tickets to New Year's Eve Soiree: Party at SoHi on the 46th floor of the hotel, includes raw bar, sushi, sashimi, passed hors d'ouevres, Veuve Clicquot champagne and signature cocktails, and dancing. Pricing starts at $2,240 including a two-night stay and two party tickets. Email TrumpSoHoNewYears@TrumpHotels.com for booking and additional information.

The Peninsula New York
Availability: Extremely low (less than 10% availability)
Types of rooms available: Grand Luxe Rooms $1,245; Executive Suites $2,245; Deluxe Suites $4,100; Grand Suite $9,500; Peninsula Suite $24,000

The NoMad
Availability: Low (11%–30% availability)
Types of rooms available: Atelier rooms, starting at $525; Salon rooms, starting at $575. Three-night minimum required.

The London NYC
Availability: Extremely low (less than 10% availability)
Type of room available: London Suites, starting at $899

The Mark Hotel
Availability: Low (11%–30% availability)
Types of rooms available: Standard rooms, starting at $895; Junior Suites, starting at $1,295; Tower Suites, starting at $1,695.
Holiday Offer: The Mark Hotel's Soiree du Nouvel An: four-course New Year's Eve prix fixe menu, jazz, and dancing. Includes a Billecart-Salmon Champagne toast at midnight, a live DJ after midnight, and party favors. Prices starting at $398 per person for the evening. Call 212-744-4300 for booking and additional information.

The Greenwich Hotel
Availability: Extremely low (less than 10% availability)
Type of room available: Superior King rooms, starting at $750. Two-night minimum required.

The Kimberly
Availability: 12%
Types of rooms available: Guest rooms, starting at $709; One-bedroom suites, starting at $879; Two-bedroom suites, starting at $1,359

The Andaz 5th Avenue
Availability: Extremely low (less than 10% availability)
Type of room available: One Bedroom Balcony Suites, starting at $980. Two-night minimum required.
Holiday Offer: New Year's Eve Package: Two-night stay with Champagne and hors d'oeuvres upon arrival, in-room spa treatments for four, personal styling appointment and champagne at BCBG, plus $100 off purchases of $350 or more. Includes four tickets to Cipriani 42nd Street's New Year's Eve party and breakfast for four on New Year's Day. Starting at $15,000.

Four Seasons Hotel New York
Availability: Low (11%–30% availability)
Type of room available: City View Deluxe King Room, starting at $1,100
Holiday Offer: New Year's Eve Party in the Bar: Dancing, complimentary photo booth, Brut Premier champagne toast at midnight. Starting at $150 per person. Email stephanie.chau@fourseasons.com for reservations and additional information.

 

Palm Springs

Parker Palm Springs
Availability: Extremely low (less than 10% availability)
Types of rooms available: Deluxe, starting at $559; Villa, starting at $1500. Two-night minimum required
Holiday Offer: Mention Condé Nast Traveler NYE when booking and receive 20% off any treatment at the Spa at the Parker. 

Ace Hotel & Swim Club
Availability: Extremely low (less than 10% availability)
Types of rooms available: Standard King for three nights, starting at $431.20; Standard King for four or more nights, staring at $405. Three-night minimum required.
Holiday Offer: Three-night stays are eligible for a 20% discount, and stays for four or more nights are eligible for a 25% discount. Only select Standard King Rooms are currently available. For reservations, 760-325-9900 or visit acehotel.com/palmsprings.

 

Paris

Le Bristol
Availability: 50%
Types of rooms available: Rooms, starting at $1,510; Suites, starting at $2,470; Prestige suites, starting at $4,665

 

San Francisco

St. Regis San Francisco
Availability: Low (11%–30% availability)
Types of rooms available: Standard Rooms, starting at $745; Suites, from starting at $1175
Holiday Offer: Midnight Masquerade: overnight accommodations in a Metropolitan Suite, two complimentary front row tickets to the San Francisco Symphony Masquerade Ball concert and after-party, overnight parking for one car, and breakfast for two at the hotel's signature restaurant, Vitrine. Starting at $2,100. For reservations please call 415-284-4070. Only five packages available.

Mandarin Oriental San Francisco
Availability: Low (11%–30% availability)
Types of rooms available: Superior City View Room, starting at $595; Superior Bay View Room, starting at $625; Deluxe City View Room, starting at $655; Deluxe Bay View Room, starting at $715; Mandarin Bay Bridge Room, starting at $865; Lotus Suite, starting at $2,500; Taipan Suite, starting at $5,000; Oriental Suite, starting at $6,000
Holiday Offer: Champagne Wishes and Caviar Dreams Package: one-night stay, two tickets to the New Year's Eve Champagne and Caviar Reception from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m, overnight valet parking for one vehicle, and late check out at 2 p.m. Starting at $765.

Ritz-Carlton San Francisco
Availability: Low (11%–30% availability)
Types of rooms available: Club Deluxe, starting at $765; Club One Bedroom Suite, starting at $1,225; The Ritz-Carlton Suite, starting at $6,000; Presidential Suite, starting at $8,000

The Fairmont San Francisco
Availability: Low (11%–30% availability)
Types of rooms available: Standard Rooms, starting at $380; Specialty Suites, starting at $1,000
Holiday Offer: You Booze, You Snooze package: late checkout at 2 p.m. and full breakfast in the Laurel Court Restaurant. Rates starting at $359 per night plus tax. For reservations or more information, please call 415-772-5000.

Hotel Vitale
Availability: Medium (31%-60% availability)
Types of rooms available: Superior, starting at $599; Deluxe City View, starting at $629; Superior Water View, starting at $659; Deluxe Water View, starting at $719; Bay Lights, starting at $749; Circular Suite, starting at $999
Holiday Offer: Catch a Room If You Can New Year's Eve package: one-night stay; in-room chocolates, champagne, and party favors; Pan Am keepsake tote bag; party at Americano Restaurant & Bar sponsored by Vintage 415. Package starts at $949, for two. Book by calling Hotel Vitale reservations at 415-278-3740 or 888-890-8688.