Save now with Starwood Hotels & Resorts' resident rates

Adventure and Fun Are Right Next Door

TORONTO, August 22, 2014 —Starwood invites residents across Canada to save up to 15% at hotels and resorts in their geographical region for end of summer and autumn stays.

 Rediscover the fun and adventure that can be enjoyed right next door with the ultimate local getaway.  Enjoy exclusive resident rates of up to 15% off at participating hotels and resorts for Thursday-Sunday arrivals, valid now for stays through December 31, 2014. 

Plan an end of summer or fall family or couples getaway that’s close by.  Valid Government issued photo ID must be presented at time of check-in to confirm these exclusive rates. Rates are per room, per night, based on single or double occupancy and availability at time of reservation.  Children 17 years of age and under stay free in parent’s room using existing bedding.

Hotel brands participating in this offer including Sheraton, Westin, Four Points by Sheraton, Le Meridien, W, Aloft and Element hotels.

Pucker up for the West Montrose "Kissing Bridge."

   One-Tank Trip for August 30/14

   (c) By Jim Fox

   Visitors are invited to come and validate the long-standing nickname of the West Montrose Covered Bridge as the “kissing bridge.”

   The heritage structure – Ontario’s only remaining covered bridge – is part of a heritage walking tour during Doors Open Waterloo Region on Sept 20.

   Built in 1881, it was “appropriately nicknamed due to the intimacy and privacy that the covered bridge offered its travellers,” Canada’s Historic Places says.

Tours will be given around the West Montrose “Kissing Bridge” in September. (Jim Fox photo)

   The iconic one-lane structure is located in one of the province’s most picturesque landscapes as it spans about 60 metres (198 feet) across the Grand River.

   It also represents the early history of Woolwich Township and of an earlier time in the village about 20 minutes north of Kitchener-Waterloo.

   The walking tours of 45 minutes leave at 11 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. from Letson Park at Rivers Edge Drive and Letson Drive.

   Along with the bridge and the nearby Lost Acres Variety store and bakery, the walk includes West Montrose village, one of Ontario’s first recognized Cultural Heritage Landscapes.

   The bridge with its red-painted wood panelling and gable roof was designed by local contractor John Bear and built with his brother Benjamin as a replacement for an earlier open bridge at that site.

West Montrose “Kissing Bridge.” (Jim Fox photo)
For complete story, go to:
http://1tanktrips.blogspot.ca/2014/08/pucker-up-for-west-montrose-kissing.html

Sanibel Island beach in South Carolina ranks top U.S. dog-friendly beach

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Lee County Visitor & Convention Bureau 

LEE COUNTY, FL – If you're looking for beach destinations where you can enjoy some fun and sun with your four-legged friend, The Beaches of Fort Myers & Sanibel in southwest Florida welcomes dogs with open paws!

Vetstreet.com, a top animal health and lifestyle website, has named Algiers Beach in Gulfside City Park on Sanibel Island to the top of its list of eight dog-friendly beaches in the U.S.

The site  notes that there is plenty of space for owners and dogs to get ample exercise or just take a break. The tropical nature of the island and the nearby nature preserve makes this beach even more of an exotic getaway.

Picnic areas and barbecue grills are available, and the area offers plenty of pet-friendly restaurants and accommodations, making an extended stay an easy option.