Best of the rest: key stops in the United States and Europe

Latin Trade, Feb, 2005

MIAMI

BEST HOTELS

The InterContinental Miami sits in the heart of downtown with a spectacular view of Biscayne Bay and the city skyline. The fashionable hotel is close to Miami Beach and a short walk from Bayside Marketplace and its trendy shops and restaurants. The hotel has 640 guest rooms, 22 meeting rooms and a business center with all of the modern technological communications conveniences. Rates start at US$196. [1] (305) 577-1000. On upscale Brickell Key, the Mandarin Oriental is a glamorous waterfront hotel. All of the Mandarin's 327 rooms have a view of the bay or the city. The spa offers 17 private treatment rooms. Rates start at $279. [1] (305) 913-8288. www.mandarinoriental.com

BEST SHOPPING

Twelve miles north of downtown Miami, Aventura Mall offers the best in one-stop shopping. During certain times of the year, Latin American tourists account for more than half of the mall's visitors. They join upscale consumers from throughout South Florida and the United States who are attracted to the mall's 250 stores on three floors, Popular outlets include Bloomingdale's, Macy's and Sears. There's a 24-screen AMC movie theater, a children's play area with a pirate theme and ample parking. [1] (305) 935-1110. www.shopaventuramall.com

NEW YORK

BEST HOTEL

If the Big Apple is the city that never sleeps, the Hotel W New York, Union Square is the hotel that never rests. Now four years in operation, it has become a preferred stop for international business people. Just press a button and 24 hours a day someone will help you. On Park Avenue near the bohemian East Village, the W is an architectural jewel with 270 rooms and 18 suites on 19 floors. Traveling with a pet? No problem, W has you covered. Rates average US$329. [1] (888) 625-4988. www.whotels.com

ORLANDO

BEST HOTEL

Business travelers and their families will find everything they need at the Sheraton World. Minutes from Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, SeaWorld, some of Florida's best golf courses, as well as the Orlando International Airport. The hotel has 1,202 corporate-style guest rooms and suites, two ballrooms, 75,000 square feet of meeting space, 35 meeting rooms and executive boardrooms. The business center offers computers, cell-phone rental, Internet access and fax and printing services. Aside from business, enjoy the hotel's three swimming pools, miniature golf and a modern spa surrounded by lush palm trees. Rates start at under US$200. [1] (407) 352-1100. www.sheratonworld.com

PARIS

BEST RESTAURANT

La Closerie des Lilas is the brasserie that became an institution in Montparnasse, after famous writers like Baudelaire and Hemingway made it their headquarters for enjoying Parisian life. In summer, a pianist plays on the terrace, recalling the old times. Traditional French cuisine with a touch of the old fashioned, served until late at night and every day of the year. Entrees start at US$70, lower prices in the bar. [33] (1) 40-51-34-50. www.closerie-des-lilas.

Le Safran is in the new Hilton Hotel, a perfect place for a quick dinner before going out on the Champs d'Elysees. A mix of inspirations reigns here, in the decor as well as in the food. Typically French cooking with an Asian influence, in a modern and refreshing atmosphere. From $30 to $75. [33] (1) 58-36-67-96. www.hilton.com.