ANDAZ

Definition:  Hyatt Hotels latest venture.  Chic, artsy, slightly funky and tech-forward brand of properties opening in hip neighborhoods around Los Angeles, Austin, New York and London.  More cities and sites on the horizon.

Andaz properties will seek design that is unusual, innovative and environmentally conscious.  Each property reflects the local flavor and texture of its location with handpicked designers and architects.  So far there will be 4 locations opened by end of 2009.  ANDAZ LIVERPOOL STEET, ANDAZ WEST HOLLYWOOD, ANDAZ WALL STREET AND ANDAZ FIFTH AVENUE, and one, ANDAZ AUSTIN, on the boards for 2010.  Rates are at the more reasonable level.  Visit www.andaz.com for more information.

Budget Travel, which belongs to Frommer’s, has come out with a list of “15 Places Every Kid Should See.”  They are: Ellis Island Museum, Lincoln Memorial, Colonial Williamsburg, USS Arizona Memorial, Grand Canyon National Park, National Civil Rights Museum in Memphis, Redwood National Park, Monticello, Gettysburg, The Alamo, Ground Zero, Niagara Falls, Freedom Trail in Boston, Independence Hall, Disneyworld