Here at Oyster we appreciate the art of a fine bath — and how it fits into a hotel room, too, considering it’s our No. 1 way to relax when we’re not at work. We scoured the 2,000+ hotels we cover to find the five most incredible tubs for you to dive into (no pun intended).

The Hotel: Grand Luxxe; Puerto Vallara, Mexico

The bathroom in a one-bedroom suite at the Grand Luxxe; Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

The Tale Behind the Tub: Grand Luxxe is the most posh of a group of Mayan timeshare resorts located in the Puerto Vallarta area. The huge rooms and suites (complete with gigantic private terraces) are designed with some serious flair — including each of the bathrooms, natch. Check out the tub, above, in a 1-bedroom suite: The free-standing unit comes equipped with a little wooden stand for all your bath-time essentials, and should it get a little stuffy, open the folding French doors to take a peek into what’s going on in the other part of your suite.

CHECK OUT MORE OF OUR FAVORITE TUBS >>

The Hotel: Hotel Le Bristol; Paris, France

The bathroom of the Honeymoon Suite at Hotel Le Bristol; Paris, France

The Tale Behind the Tub: The luxurious Hotel Le Bristol opened its doors in 1925 during the Roaring Twenties. Today, it’s still going strong, and has a reputation for having outstanding service. Rooms range in size and price, and have been reduced in number since the early days in order to increase the number of signature suites; the Honeymoon Suite (above) features both a stand-alone Turkish steam shower and this incredible soaking tub, complete with its very own nozzle (to cool you down or wash yourself off.) Plus, the huge Jack-and-Jill sinks and spacious vanities will allow even the biggest product hoarders to spread out.

The Hotel: Excellence Punta Cana; Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

Bathroom of the Excellence Suite at the Excellence Hotel; Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

The Tale Behind the Tub: Um, how romantic are those towels built up as swans? Can you say Valentine’s Day? Regardless, this huge bathtub (it’s built for two) is perfect for a post-workout soak or a lengthy evening version while intimately chatting with your loved one (who’s in bed, of course). The resort itself is super-relaxing, too: The Excellence is a quiet, adults-only spot, perfect for a quick getaway with your other half — just make sure you spend time tubbin’ together.

The Hotel: Shutters on the Beach; Los Angeles, CA

The bathtub in a Deluxe Room at Shutters on the Beach; Los Angeles, CA

The Tale Behind the Tub: A known celebrity hangout, Shutters has an atmosphere of formal opulence, with expensive artwork in its lobby, luxe features, and rooms that belong in a billionaire’s beach house. We especially love the tub for having — what else — working shutters that look out into your guest room. The hotel provides bathers with top toiletries from SkyBlue, a copy of a Hemingway novel, and even a flat-screen TV to watch while bathing. Don’t you feel like a star already?

The Hotel: One and Only Ocean Club; Bahamas

The bathtub in a Luxury Beachfront Room at the One and Only Ocean Club; Bahamas

The Tale Behind the Tub: One of the Bahamas‘ priciest hotels, the One and Only is dedicated to service, designating a personal butler to each guestroom that checks in. The decor is pretty swanky, too, and the bathtub is no exception with its top-notch faucets and incredible mosaic-tile backdrop. Bonus? The bathroom also offers up a separate toilet-and-bidet area for those looking to soak in privacy. The bad news? You’ll only grab one of these tubs if you upgrade from a standard room here.

RELATED LINKS:

• Hundreds of Photos of Hotel Bathrooms
• Rooms with Jacuzzi Tubs for 2
• Amazing Private Hotel Room Terraces

Bizarre Foods Host Andrew Zimmern

Andrew Zimmern is a chef, food writer, the host and producer of Travel Channel’s hit series, Bizarre Foods. Andrew, a recipient of the prestigious James Beard Award, has traveled the world, and understands the importance of a hotel and its amenities.

Andrew browsed around Oyster and chose his favorite kid-friendly hotels exclusively for us. Find out which hotels he loves and why.

We know how bloated/badly/gross you felt on New Year’s Day — and how you vowed to kick the nasty habit causing your “pain.” (Or weight gain, whatever.) Well, folks, it’s January 16 — can you say that you’ve started your resolution yet? Because around here at Oyster.com, many of us have (whoops) let our resolutions fall to the wayside — because we’re so dedicated to our jobs, of course. But for the rest of you, well, you don’t have an excuse. No matter what you’ve planned on resolving, we’ve got the perfect hotel to remedy it.

YOU RESOLVED TO: HIT THE GYM

VISIT: The Affinia Dumont, New York City

The fitness center at the Affinia Dumont; New York, NY

WHY: This fitness-themed hotel (Like, literally, there’s sports-themed artwork in the lobby) provides a complimentary “StayFit Kit” in each room, which includes a yoga mat, stretching blocks, 3 DVDs, workout bands, wrist/ankle weights, and a city map for a DIY jog. Basically, the Affinia Dumont is giving you all the tools to get ripped — in your PJs. And since the hotel is suites-only, you’ll have the space in your room to do so. Should you want to actually throw on some clothes, there’s an amazing gym and a special fitness concierge to help whip you into shape, too.

YOU RESOLVED TO: EAT HEALTHIER

VISIT: Marriott Suites Las Vegas; Las Vegas, NV

A lightened-up dish at Windows Grill at the Marriott Suites Las Vegas; Las Vegas, NV

WHY: I know, you’re probably thinking, “How can I better myself in the City of Sin?” But take our word for it — the Marriott Suites can do just that. It’s far off The Strip and offers no nightlife of its own — the perfect way to keep your brand-new diet in check. The hotel’s restaurant, Window’s Grill, serves up traditional American fare — but with a TON of healthy twists. Diet-friendly dishes are labeled “low cholesterol,” “low fat,” or “carb conscious,” and should you decide to throw a bit of exercise into becoming your new healthy self, there’s a basement gym that offers up the essentials — and that’s it.

YOU RESOLVED TO: BE GREENER

VISIT: The Ambrose; Santa Monica, CA

Preferred parking at The Ambrose; Santa Monica, CA

WHY: This 77-room, midrange boutique spot is one of the most environmentally focused hotels in Southern California, making it our top LEED-certified hotel pick (in fact, it was the first hotel to receive the U.S. Green Building Council’s Silver Certification. The Ambrose recycles or composts 75 percent of its waste output, all of its appliances are Energy Star rated, 15 percent of guest rooms use Clean and Green Wind Power, plus, bath tissues, copy paper and napkins are made from recycled materials. The toilet and shower are also water-efficient, natch. Did I mention hybrid cars get preferred parking?

YOU RESOLVED TO: STRESS LESS

VISIT: Vdara Hotel & Spa; Las Vegas, NV

The shops at Vdara Resort & Spa; Las Vegas, NV

WHY: A quiet atmosphere in Vegas is certainly a rarity, and the Vdara takes hold of that within its two-story spa space. Their spa menu is carefully crafted with treatments for just about any kind of Vegas-goer, but for the person who swore off insanity, your best bet would be the French Lavender Soothing Massage ($140 for 50 minutes). The essential oil has been known to help insomnia, irritability, and of course, stress. Grab a smoothie at the juice bar on your way out — you’ll feel nothing short of blissfully ignorant.

RELATED LINKS:

• Oyster’s Top Eco-Friendly Spots
• More Cool Hotel Fitness Features
• The Best Hotel Spas

Vegas, baby, yeah! (Can you hear the Austin Powers accent?) At this point, the city of sin is pretty much synonymous with any night-time activity — gambling, dancing, drinking, grubbin — so its no wonder that Las Vegas hotels have stepped up their game when it comes to their room service menus. We applaud the hotels who already offer 24/7 service — personally, we think it’s essential everywhere — but for those who don’t, well, those hotels should probably take a peek at what our favorite properties are currently turning out.

Most Extensive Menu: Encore at the Wynn

The European Pool at the Encore at the Wynn; Las Vegas, NV

When you’re not gambling at the unique poolside casino or partying at hotspot Surrender, you’re probably resting it off in your 700+ square foot room on your cozy bed. (Really!) Open up a drawer to find a nearly overwhelming 40-page menu that starts with — what else — morning cocktails. In addition to traditional American fare, the Encore offers up hot wings, made-to-order sushi and party snacks should you decide to entertain in your suite.

Oyster.com Order: Angus Beef Sliders (Make it a double, please.)

The How Come We Didn’t Think of It First Menu: The 10 P.M. to 6 A.M. offerings at The Mandarin Oriental

The Mandarin Premiere Room at the Mandarin Oriental Las Vegas; Las Vegas, NV

Night owls have odd habits — including what they like to snack on after an evening out. And with the serene haven that the Mandarin Oriental’s become on the otherwise glitzy strip, it’s easy to see why you’d want to head back to your room on the earlier side. Just buzz the front desk to have the hotel’s Mercedes S-class come pick you up (within a two mile radius) by 9 P.M. on weekends for a sweet ride home. Plus, the chefs on call seem to be on our (partying) page, combining the best dinner and breakfast choices into one cheeky menu.

Oyster.com Order: Steak and eggs (Can you tell we’re carnivores?)

The Thought-of-Absolutely-Everything Menu: The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas

Bond Night Club at The Cosmopolitan Las Vegas; Las Vegas, NV

Although we have yet to release our coverage of the Cosmpolitan (we promise, it’s coming soon!), we can tell you a little bit about it — namely that they know how to treat their young, hip guests. After checking in on an iPad, exploring the ultra-modern grounds and ending up at one of the resort’s nightclubs, bring your crew back upstairs. The Cosmopolitan has got your party covered: The room service menu offers a ton of delicious fare, plus Crowd Pleasers, assortment snack plates for both “The Guys” and “The Girls,” and Cocktail Packages, which give you pretty much everything you’d need to mix your favorite drink in the comfort of your room. Bottoms up!

Oyster.com Order: The Mojito Cubano kit, which includes a seriously authentic recipe straight from Havana.

RELATED LINKS:

• The Best Pools in Vegas
• Top Casinos to Visit on the Strip
• Amazing Las Vegas Attractions

We already knew that airlines were regularly ripping us off — $25 to check a bag, $10 to board in the first group — but now we’re finding more hotels charging so-called daily “resort fees,” some which are obscured a bit during the hotel booking process. Hotels will often explain these extra fees are for using the amenities, upkeep of the property, pretty much anything a concierge or bellman can think of on his or her toes. And when we read yesterday that a guest at Walt Disney World‘s Swan and Dolphin Resort was fighting with the Starwood-owned property over an “unmentioned” $10 per day resort fee, we decided to go on a mini-mission: To find three super-luxurious hotels that charge the daily rate (plus tax, natch) and that’s it. The result? Many of our fave spots did charge said resort fee (upwards of $35 a day) — but three incredibly luxurious resorts made the cut. (If you can’t leave your cube, don’t fret — the pictures alone make us feel like we’re on vacation, too.) Check out ‘em out below, and then tell us: Would you pay a daily resort fee?

Punta Cana Hotel & Resort, Dominican Republic

The main pool at the Punta Cana Hotel; Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

Why We Love It: This resort is practically the definition of luxury, with not only one of the best swimming beaches in all of the D.R., but also two crystal clear pools to splash around in. Need even more R&R? Check out the major Six Senses Spa — but make sure to book your massage in one of their beachside cabanas. Can’t you hear the ocean breeze already?

The breakfast buffet at the Punta Cana Hotel; Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

Our Favorite Free Amenity: Gourmet buffet breakfast. Yum. Fruit on a tropical vacation? Yes please!

Aruba Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino

The beach at the Aruba Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino; Oranjestad, Aruba

Why We Love It: Although it’s a 30-minute drive from Oranjestad Airport, the Aruba Marriott is one of the top hotels on Aruba’s premiere sandy strip and well worth the trip. Attendees will help you set up a palapa (a.k.a. beach hut) every morning, but during peak season, this means getting up super-early. In addition to offering some amazing restaurants, the Marriott also has the hottest — and most exciting — casino in Aruba.

The water sports hut at the Aruba Marriot Resort & Stellaris Casino; Oranjestad, Aruba

Our Favorite Free Amenity: Non-motorized water sports offer something for everyone — snorkel masks for the kids, a kayak for your significant other, and even a little Hobie Cat you can take out before sunset.

The Ritz-Carlton Golf & Spa Resort Rose Hall

A private beach tent at the Ritz-Carlton Golf & Spa Resort; Rose Hall, Jamaica

Why We Love It: Although the area of Montego Bay in Jamaica has seen better days, The Ritz in Rose Hall is a superb hotel. Order your amazing (but pricey) food anywhere you want — the room, the beach, the pool, wherever — they’ll deliver it. Even to your awesome, private beach tent (like the one above). Take a dip in the resort’s pool, play 18 holes or just curl up during a rainstorm in one of their wicked comfy beds.

A hotel staffer tends to the golf course at the Ritz-Carlton Golf & Spa Resort; Rose Hall, Jamaica

Our Favorite Free Amenity: Simply put, the service. The employees here are not only top-notch (this is a Ritz-Carlton, after all), but also actually enjoy doing their jobs. The local staff will help you at every hallway’s turn (literally!), and should you run into a maid while cleaning your suite, don’t stress — ask for a handful of delicious dark chocolates instead.

RELATED LINKS:

• Oyster.com’s Favorite Caribbean Hotels
• The Best All-Inclusive Beach Resorts
• 11 Beachfront Bargains

Even if you’ve just returned from a Christmas vacation (lucky you!), winter’s cold temperatures take a toll on us all — and what else would we do but recommend taking a quick, refreshing break? Right now, there are some great deals — but only if  you know where to look. We checked out our favorite summer spots for nothing short of a fabulous (if frigid) winter break.

Nantucket
Where to Stay: The Vanessa Noel Hotel

Cafe V at The Vanessa Noel Hotel; Nantucket, MA

Why Now: Unlike its other cottage-y counterparts, the Vanessa Noel has minimalist chic room decor that reminds us more of the Delano in South Beach. This spot is no-kids-allowed, so if you’re looking to tote your entire fam, you’ll have to find an alternate resort. Great for couples, though, there’s also the hip, delicious Cafe V and a killer shoe store attached to satisfy any fashionista’s shopping needs.

The Hamptons
Where to Stay: The East Hampton Art House Bed & Breakfast

The kitchen at the East Hampton Art House; East Hampton, NY

Why Now: Although the Hamptons is usually synonymous with summer vacation, a quick drive out on I-495 East will take you to the sexy villa-style accommodations at the Art House B&B. Although you’ll have to bundle up to hit the beach just steps away, you’ll also find a plethora of top-notch shopping and dining nearby. You can get your sweat on at their sleek indoor fitness center, so then you won’t feel as bad about chowing down on the boutique hotel’s gourmet breakfast and round-the-clock refreshments. And there’s some great antiquing in the area, too.

Cape Cod
Where to Stay: Captain’s House Inn

The bedroom in the Clarissa Suite at the Captains House Inn; Cape Cod, MA

Why Now: Captain’s House Inn retains all the charm of a New England B&B, but with enough extras to entice guests year-round. Every room has a soaking tub and fireplace, and tons of free yummies to boot. Expect gourmet breakfast, afternoon tea and varying sweet snacks throughout the day. Curl up with a good book and a glass of complimentary sherry or port at the hotel’s library for a relaxing afternoon. After all those sweet extras and some quality down time, you’ll be thinking, “What beach?’

San Juan Islands
Where to Stay: Friday Harbor House

A private jacuzzi in a King Room at the Friday Harbor House; San Juan Islands, WA

Why Now: The Pacific coast’s milder winters allow lucky residents to escape to places like the San Juan Islands for a quick getaway — and us East Coasters are jealous, having already seen plenty of below freezing temperatures. The Friday Harbor House, just two blocks from the ferry terminal, has all the cozy trimmings you’d want in the dead of winter: 1. A fireplace and 2. Jacuzzi — for two. (So romantic!) The views from most rooms are to-die-for, so make sure to pack your camera — and your wallet, cause the picturesque scenery is gonna cost you — too.

Martha’s Vineyard
Where to Stay: Hob Knob

Lounge at the Hob Knob; Martha's Vineyard, MA

Why Now: With its central location on Main Street, the Hob Knob is hard to beat proximity-wise during the winter — only during peak season would one perhaps find the noise from the street offensive. Unlike other resorts on the island, this one doesn’t offer an outdoor pool or jacuzzi, a relatively minor issue as temperatures having been dipping below freezing. Spend a day working up a sweat in the top-notch fitness center, rejuvenating at the spa, checking in with the office at the sleek business center and then resting easy courtesy of the hotel’s white noise machines. (If you haven’t tried using one, you’re missing out.)

Jersey Shore (Atlantic City)
Where to Stay: The Tropicana Resort and Casino

"The Quarter" at the Tropicana; Atlantic City, NJ

Why Now: With room rates starting at under $100 per night right now, it’s easy to see why the Trop trumps, well, the other Trump hotels. Located centrally on AC’s famed boardwalk, the Tropicana boasts an outpost of the Philly original Bluemercury spa (Ed note: Having lived in Philadelphia for four years, I have to vouch for how awesome Bluemercury is.) as well as a Havana-inspired shopping and dining area known as “the Quarter.” Gamble at the giant casino and take in a flick at the IMAX theater before calling it a trip.

OK, so even though Oyster.com is a travel website and our main goal is to deliver the truth about hotels, we also secretly moonlight as a life coach. That’s right, we can dole out advice on waaaay more than just hotels; don’t forget — we helped you get over your ex, offered Lindsay Lohan some sound legal advice, and dissected the key moments in Kris and Kim’s “marriage” (if you can call it that) that lead to the split. So yeah, we’re basically the new-and-improved Dr. Phil with a ton of travel tips to boot. To help transform your lifestyle, we scoured the globe and found the destinations best suited for changing your life for the better. (We guess some people can handle the total transformation at home but a vacation is always nice, right?) So grab a friend who’s also in need of a little improvement and head to Oyster’s top five picks for transforming your life! Check ‘em out below or on Shape.com.

Sunday Farmers' Market; Washington, D.C.

Washington, D.C.

Ranked by PETA as one of the most veg (and vegan)-friendly cities in the country, Washington, D.C. is the perfect spot to transform your diet. Going vegetarian is all the rage (Meatless Monday, anyone?) — it’s been proven to be good for your heart, your skin, and your immune system – and D.C. has tons of vegetarian and vegan-friendly restaurants. But even if you’re just looking to increase your veggie intake without completely swearing off meat (I mean, have vegetarians never had a hamburger before? Hard to give up, don’t you think?), D.C. is a good place to be. With the First Lady’s “Let’s Move” nutrition initiative, the capital is all about you getting your three to four servings of fruits and veggies (each!) every day.

Firefly at Hotel Madera

Treat Yourself at Hotel Madera

The first step is getting there, so once you’re in D.C. and you’re ready to re-discover the joys of veggies (or discover them for the first time if your parents considered pizza a vegetable — oh wait, Congress does), congratulate yourself by checking in to the hip Hotel Madera. What it lacks in amenities the hotel makes up for with its jewel of a restaurant; Firefly. Serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner, the space has a whimsical atmosphere with its candle-lit tables and nature-inspired decor. The American menu focuses on organic and local ingredients, so you can get your fill of fresh veggies!

OYSTER.COM MENU PICK:

Try the risotto, packed with roasted squash and pickled mushrooms or the tasty (and gluten-free!) eggplant parmesan.

Public Gardens; Boston, MA

Boston

Boston is continually ranked as one of the most stress-free cities in the country. Stress has a large (and negative) impact on your day-to-day life – it can lead to high blood pressure, heart disease, and migraines. Even if you are employed and don’t have to deal with a long, jarring commute (two major factors in a person’s stress level), you can suffer from second-hand stress if you’re surrounded by continually frazzled folks — you know, people like Jenna, who made quite a splash on the season premiere of The Bachelor. That’s why Boston is a great place to visit to work on transforming your lifestyle – with a positive health initiative, a great healthcare system, and active (and employed) residents, it can inspire you to free yourself of worries. Even if you can’t make it to Boston, adopt the relaxed Beantown attitude through meditation or yoga – the less stress in your life, the better.

The Lifestyle Room at the Mandarin Oriental; Boston, MA

Treat Yourself at the Mandarin Oriental, Boston

The 148-room Mandarin Oriental in the Back Bay area has a 16,000-square-foot spa, plus extraordinary service and some of Boston’s most luxurious standard rooms that can help you reach inner zen in no time. The feng shui-like decor features large windows, calming neutral colors, comfy day beds and soft lighting. And the spa offers Asian-inspired treatments that will be sure to de-stress even the most frazzled guest.

OYSTER.COM’S TOP SPA MENU PICK:

The Oriental Essence massage, designed for the “stressed executive” will have you feeling like a new person in just an hour. Have a lot of time to spare — and a lot of stress in your life? Indulge in the Aqua Ritual treatment. Over two hours long, it begins with a hydrotherapeutic bath and ends with a relaxing body wrap — with a massage, a scrub, and a Vichy shower packed in between.

A park trail; Seattle, WA

Seattle

If you enjoy breaking a solid sweat (or just a bit hyperactive), you’ll want to head to Seattle, which was recently ranked the most active city in the U.S. It may rain 150 days out of the year, but that doesn’t keep the city’s residents from heading outdoors (or at least to the gym) to get a good workout in — and it probably doesn’t hurt that they’re all hyped up on Starbucks, too. Seattle-ites also watch less TV and play fewer video games to avoid couch-potato status (currently held by Lexington, Ky. – the least active city in the country). So do like the locals do and run along the beach at Discovery Park, bike part of the Urban Trail System, or kayak on Lake Union – anything that gets your heart pumping is a good start to getting fit and transforming your lifestyle.

The Fitness Center at the Four Seasons Hotel Seattle

Treat Yourself at the Four Seasons Hotel Seattle

If you call Seattle home – congrats you active person, you! If not, when you head to Seattle on an active getaway, you may want to stay at the Four Seasons, one of the top luxury hotels in Seattle. The hotel offers some of the best views in the city as well as spacious, comfortable rooms, a rooftop infinity pool, a tasty restaurant, and a 24-hour fitness center. So even if it’s raining, you can squeeze in a great workout on your vacay.

OYSTER.COM’S TOP WORKOUT PICK:

Fusion workouts are all the rage right now — there’s yoga-lates, spin-lates, and core fusion just to name a few — and they’ve been listed as a top fitness trend to look out for in 2012. Many of these fusion workouts are taught in classes but you can do the DIY version in the hotel’s fitness center. Mix up some cardio with weight-training or cool down after your run with some downward-facing dog or other relaxing yoga positions — you’ll feel great afterwards and you’ll be on the cutting-edge of fitness!

Paddle-boarding at Waikiki Beach; Honolulu, HI

Honolulu

Hawaii’s capital, Honolulu, is one of the happiest cities in the country – and it’s no surprise, considering that the ocean breeze and sunny skies make for perpetual vacation-like conditions. To be ranked as one of the happiest cities, there’s a strict criteria, but Honolulu passed all of the tests with flying colors: Everything from personal life evaluation and physical health to emotional health and work satisfaction is considered in the equation. (Maybe it’s because plenty of residents are pro surfers so hanging ten is their 9-to-5 — how could you not be happy?). Outdoor exercise is one of the best ways to boost your endorphins – get your heart rate up (and work on your tan) surfing, paddle-boarding or simply swimming in Hawaii’s clear waters. Smile!

Starlight Luau at the Hilton Hawaiian Village; Honolulu, HI

Treat Yourself at the Hilton Hawaiian Village

The largest resort in Hawaii is a veritable village, with five towers, five pools, 20 bars and restaurants, 90 shops, direct beach access and a separate lagoon. The crowds can get big and the lines long. But for families and other Waikiki vacationers looking for a self-contained resort with loads to do, the Hilton is a top choice.

OYSTER.COM’S TOP SMILE-INDUCING ACTIVITY PICK:

When in Honolulu, you’ve got to go to a luau. A Hawaiian tradition, the luau is a celebration with performances and a feast; they often take place at weddings and birthday parties, and are a tourist-favorite in the 50th state.  The Starlight Luau at the Hilton takes place five nights a week. It’ll be hard not to have fun at the luau which features several performances (including fire sword swallowers), a buffet dinner, and enough booze to get guests on stage!

Bicycle in SoHo

New York City

It may be a bustling metropolis – with tons of traffic and a skyline dominated by high-rises, but New York City is nonetheless one of the greenest cities in the country. How? Well, residents are great about recycling and a vast majority of them commute to work – we’re talking about a “carpool” in the hundreds when you think about the hordes of people on the subway! Even more green, New Yorkers often choose to walk – always a healthy choice – rather than hail a cab and with Bloomberg’s recent kiss with Lady Gaga expansion of bike lanes, cycling has become a popular mode of transportation. The greener you live, the healthier you (and the earth) are – it’s a win-win!

Park View Room at The Pierre - A Taj Hotel; New York City

Treat Yourself at The Pierre – A Taj Hotel

An elegant, historic hotel, the Pierre offers a taste of grand old New York to those staying in any of its 189 small but freshly renovated guest rooms, complete with high-end Frette linens, marble bathrooms, and updated amenities like flat-screen TVs and iPod docks. Plus, the hotel is right across the street from Central Park so you can easily go for a stroll in the tree-lined park — or just take in the view from one of the Park View rooms.

OYSTER.COM’S TOP GREEN ACTIVITY:

Central Park is a must-visit when in the Big Apple. Head to the boathouse where you can rowboats, paddleboats, and kayaks. It’s a great workout, it (can be) romantic, and best of all — it’s green!

RELATED LINKS

• Luau Oyster Shots
• Best Hotel Restaurants in Washington, D.C.
• What to do and Where to Stay for Your Hawaiian Adventure

Some people are so focused during their workout that they hardly notice where they are, let alone which famous faces may be passing by them. And we applaud those people who dedicate the utmost concentration to their fitness regimen. But some of us may have a wandering eye while working on our fitness (hey, it doesn’t hurt to see the toned bods of fellow exercisers). For that extra bit of motivation, we’ve come up with a list of the best workout spots for star sightings – and which hotels to stay in to be close to the fitness hotspots. Check ‘em out below or head over to Shape.com.

Credit: Mark Savage/startraksphoto.com

Runyon Canyon Park

It seems like tabloids feature photos of celebs running, hiking or walking their dogs in Runyon Canyon Park every week. At 160 acres, this park offers hiking trails of various difficulties, so it’s no surprise that stars of every age and fitness level are spotted here (and the no-leash policy means it’s also a popular spot for bringing pooches on a stroll). The three main trails are Runyon Canyon Road, Star Trail, and Hero Trail. Named for the celebrities who grace it, Star Trail is a moderate hike while Hero Trail is the most challenging thanks to its super steep inclines. Josh Duhamel and his wife, Fergie, are often spotted jogging together, and Khloe Kardashian Odom was recently spotted alongside her hubby Lamar Odom and her brother, Rob. When Scarlett Johansson was getting hot and heavy with Sean Penn (remember those five minutes?), she and her then-boyfriend got hot and sweaty on a jog with pal Owen Wilson.

WHERE TO STAY: Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel, L.A., Calif.

The 300-room Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel, an L.A. landmark, is a luxe, hip hotel that’s  just a 10-minute walk from one of the park’s entrances. The hotel combines the shimmer of silver-screen history with a cutting-edge party scene, centered around a massive pool (perfect for a post-workout dip) and a bar, plus a casual restaurant open 24 hours. Service is surprisingly good (lacking the snobbery of some upscale L.A. hotels) but the rooms, though well designed, are smaller than average.

View from the Oriental Suite at the Mandarin Oriental, New York

Central Park

Although New York City does not have the sprawling open spaces that some areas of L.A. offer, Central Park is the crown jewel of the bustling metropolis–and at 843 acres, it gives Runyon Canyon Park a run for its money size-wise. An official National Landmark for decades, Central Park is a popular spot for working out (and there are tons of ways to break a sweat), though the running track around the Reservoir – about a 1.5 mile loop– may be the most frequented fitness destination. Celebs recently seen sweating there include Chris Noth, Heidi Klum, Gywneth Paltrow and Mark Ruffalo. Not a runner? Visitors can also bike, kayak, ice-skate (during the winter), and even rock climb. Central Park is also a popular spot for movie sets, too, so keep your eyes peeled.

WHERE TO STAY: Mandarin Oriental, New York

It’s not an icon like the Plaza or the Pierre — but so what? located across Columbus Circle from Central Park, the Mandarin Oriental offers a dizzying array of modern luxuries – a 75-foot pool, one of the city’s best spas, sweeping views from nearly every common area (and some rooms have Central Park views), and superb on-site fine-dining options – all while upholding traditional values and outstanding service. For those traveling on a budget, the Excelsior Hotel on the Upper West Side is just a block from Central Park as well.

Beach at the Hotel Oceana Santa Monica

Malibu Beach

Malibu is a given celeb spot, as its just about an hour’s drive from LA and  has plenty of strips of sandy beach. While some star-gazers may set up a towel and relax in the sun, you’ll probably have more luck getting up close and personal with stars if you hit the waves. David Beckham and Gerard Butler enjoy riding the surf and Matthew McConaughey has been seen paddle-boarding in Malibu’s calmer waters. McConaughey has also been a participant in the celeb-heavy Nautica Malibu Triathalon, along with funnyman Will Ferrell. Tiffani Thiessen (of Saved by the Bell fame), The Hangover’s Ed Helms, John Cryer, and Bachelor host Chris Harrison all showed up for the race’s 25th year, which raised money for cancer research.

WHERE TO STAY: Hotel Oceana, Santa Monica, Calif.

A 30-minute drive from Malibu, this Santa Monica hotel more than compensates for its lack of on-site features —no spa, a long walk to the beach— with great design in its large rooms, a welcoming atmosphere cultivated by personal service and a relaxed, low-key vibe unmatched by its luxury rivals Fairmont Miramar, Shutters on the Beach, and Casa Del Mar.

W New York - Union Square

Soul Cycle

The trend du jour, Soul Cycle is an upbeat spin class that combines top-notch, top-40 remixes with hardcore instructors who won’t let you get by with anything less than working your butt off. Classes are pricey (we’re talking really pricey), but they come with an above-average chance of spotting someone famous. Kelly Ripa is a huge fan (she even convinced pal Anderson Cooper to join her and now he’s hooked) and Brooke Shields, Katie Holmes, and Jake Gyllenhaal (who was spotted at the Soul Cycle in Union Square just a couple of weeks ago) are also avid spinners.

WHERE TO STAY: W New York – Union Square

Just a few blocks from one of the city’s Soul Cycle studios, the W Hotel’s 270-room Union Square property greatly resembles other Ws in New York: Comfortable beds, modern rooms, an excellent gym, and plenty of business travelers in the butterfly-decorated, techno-soundtracked lobby. But this one’s downtown unlike the others, near the bar-filled East Village and media-mecca Flatiron District. But street noise penetrates the walls, even on the 11th floor. If you’re looking to save a few bucks on accommodations (because all of your moolah will be going towards spinning), the Union Square Inn is a budget option – but you get what you pay for.

The Standard New York over High Line Park

High Line Park

Built on a former elevated railroad track, the High Line Park was instantly popular after its opening in 2009 – and now that this summer marked the opening of the second section, the one-mile long park is a nice spot for jogging (plus, if you need a rest, you can relax on one of the lounge chairs that slide along the tracks). As you walk, jog, or run along, you can enjoy views of the river and you may even spot a celeb; this summer, Beyonce showed off her baby bump at the park and a couple of months ago, Orlando Bloom and Miranda Kerr brought son Flynn on a walk there. It’s no surprise that the High Line is a celeb hotspot, as many celebs – including Kevin Bacon, Edward Norton, Amanda Peet, Glenn Close, Hilary Clinton, and Martha Stewart – made significant donations towards the renewal project.

WHERE TO STAY: The Standard New York

Hovering above the High Line on concrete pillars, this one-of-a-kind Meatpacking District hotel offers 337 light-flooded, ultra-mod rooms with panoramic views of the city; one restaurant, several popular bars and excellent service. It might just be the hippest hotel in New York City. Plenty of celebs have been spotted here as well; Chelsea Handler, Justin Timberlake, Mila Kunis, and Kanye West have all partied at the Standard.

RELATED LINKS

• Celebrity Sighting Hotels
• Cool Hotel Fitness Features
• Five Most Popular Celebrity Hideaways

Most of us spent last weekend popping bottles of (cheap) champagne, passing cheese platters, or ordering in MSG-loaded Chinese food. Regardless of which indulgence you chose, there’s definitely at least a tinge of holiday hangover – alcoholic or otherwise. Start the year off right by heading to one of these super-sleek spas in a city near you.

The spa bathroom at the Beverly Wilshire; Los Angeles

LOS ANGELES: The Spa at the Beverly Hills Wilshire
The Detox Treatment: The Detox Massage ($180 for 60 minutes)

The Deal: As if complimentary use of the 8,000-square foot spa’s saunas, steam rooms, and experience showers (which feature the likes of colored lighting and variable pressure) wasn’t rejuvenating enough, every treatment here is top-notch, which is why we’d head straight for a Detox Massage. Therapists at the Rodeo Spa use specific massage techniques to flush out kidney, liver and other bodily toxins that will relax your mind, too.

CHICAGO: Spa at the Ritz-Carlton Chicago
The Detox Treatment: Organic Skin Renewal Wrap ($150 for 50 minutes)

The Deal:If you’re sensitive to the touch, give a luxe body wrap a try—you’re literally enveloping yourself in a warm blanket. (Warning: Don’t do this if you’re claustrophobic!) Kick off the year with renewed, glowing skin thanks to varying antioxidants, jojoba oils and butterfly-bush extract.

The Lobby at Hotel Vitale San Francisco

SAN FRANCISCO: Spa Vitale at Hotel Vitale
The Detox Treatment: The Bathing Ritual ($60 for 25 minutes)

The Deal: Who wouldn’t want to simply luxuriate outdoors amidst a rooftop bamboo garden? An esthetician will draw you a private whirlpool tub with seasonally sourced ingredients while you sip on fruit-infused water (lemon aides in the body’s natural detox process). Bonus? Your bloodshot peepers will be soothed thanks to a cucumber eye wash.

Complimentary items at ESPA at the Peninsula New York

NEW YORK: ESPA at the Peninsula Hotel
The Detox Treatment: ESPA Aromatherapy Detox Massage ($195 for 60 minutes)

The Deal: Touting itself as the city’s top spa, ESPA doesn’t fall short of its claim, offering a variety of Asian and Ayurvedic treatments to chill out. The aromatherapy massages aren’t your typical sensory OD experience─rather; they offer four different scents to treat a variety of post-holiday blues. We love the Detox Massage for its use of citrus oils, a natural diuretic. Another great option is the Immune Booster, which features eucalyptus extract to ward off colds and viruses.

A private whirpool at the Mandarin Oriental Boston

BOSTON: Spa at the Mandarin Oriental Boston
The Detox Treatment: Mandarin Oriental Signature Spa Therapy ($260 for 140 minutes)

The Deal: Albeit pricey, this space is Boston’s only five-star spa, and its signature treatment is tailored to your specific needs. (Did you drink too much on NYE? Overindulge on Christmas cookies?) After a private consultation with your therapist, specific oils and scents are selected for your super-long, tension-busting massage. Before leaving, you’ll also receive a customized nutrition and exercise plan from the fitness center based upon your own needs.

RELATED LINKS:

• 10 Sexiest Spas
• Top Maui Hotel Spas
• Hot Spots in Miami

You know what New Year’s Eve means: cocktail dresses, wild parties, a midnight countdown, and just hours until your New Year’s resolutions kick in. It can be tough to start in on your new diet-and-exercise regimen — especially after a night of raucous debauchery — so we’ve come up with the top six last-minute active getaways to help you jump start your goals for 2012. You will have never looked or felt better! We have a destination for every kind of woman in every kind of location (with great deals to boot) so getting in shape will be fun – we promise! Whether you like to burn calories whizzing down the slopes or want to start fresh with a detox and yoga, we have a spot for you. Check out Oyster.com’s top picks for active getaways below, or on Shape.com!

The rock wall in the fitness center at the Canyon Ranch Hotel & Spa

For the party-girl: Canyon Ranch Hotel & Spa Miami Beach in Miami

Some of you will undoubtedly be hitting up the clubs in Miami Beach for a wild New Year’s Eve. So for all you party girls out there, the Canyon Ranch Miami Beach is the perfect choice: It has a slightly more relaxed vibe than other Canyon Ranch resorts (so there will be no judgment for your escapades the night before) and it offers about 40 free fitness classes everyday (so you’ll have plenty of opportunities to burn off the calories from the New Year’s Eve champagne toast). The Canyon Ranch brand is synonymous with good health and the Miami Beach outlet is no different; guests sign waivers that they will not smoke while at the resort, the restaurant serves healthy options off of a menu with detailed nutritional information next to every item, and the massive fitness center includes dozens of cardio machines and a rock-climbing wall. Best of all, starting on January 1^st, the hotel offers a four-night Your Stay, Your Way package for guests staying in room types of the Ocean Palm suite or higher, which entitles them to a $400 credit that can be used towards the spa, the shop, and the restaurant. So after a sunset yoga class or a beach conditioning workout, you can order an icy, alcoholic beverage by the pool (albeit low-cal and flavored with acai juice) – hey, you’re still a party girl at heart.

The yoga studio at Natura Cabanas

For the laid-back mama: Natura Cabanas in the Dominican Republic

Those looking to start their new year in a serene spot, away from the hustle and bustle of life back home, will love the serene, secluded location of Natura Cabanas in the Dominican Republic. Naturas Cabanas features eco-friendly bungalows, without AC or TVs, a clean, private beach, and a small, but luxurious, al fresco spa. Guests come for the low-key, intimate atmosphere and Natura Cabanas is a great option for a healthy start to the new year: The beach is a nice spot for a vigorous swim (waves can be rough, but not too rough that it becomes unsafe) and is just a short paddle from surfer haven Playa Encuentro, the two on-site restaurants serve up healthy treats like fruit-filled crepes and fresh seafood, and the excellent yoga studio, overlooking the ocean, offers daily yoga and Pilates classes. It even offers yoga for kids on Wednesdays and Saturdays! The hotel can also arrange excursions to nearby waterfalls and horseback riding trails for an extra dose of action. And all of this comes at remarkably reasonable rates (which include a large, healthy breakfast). Guests pay per person per night; for couples, it starts at only $90 per person per night and children (ages two to 12) are only $40 per child per night. Guests who pay with cash receive 10 percent off.

The lobby at the Viceroy Snowmass

For the ski bunny: Viceroy Snowmass in Snowmass Village

Skiing is one of those activities during which you’re burning calories without even realizing it, and the slopes — especially those in Snowmass — can really be a place to see-and-be-seen during the new year! (Celebrities such as Kate Hudson, Goldie Hawn, and Zoe Saladana were all spotted in Snowmass last holiday season.) About 20 minutes from downtown Aspen, Snowmass Village is Aspen’s equally luxurious, but slightly more understated, neighbor. The village sits at the base of the massive Snowmass Mountain, where active types can ski, snowboard, and snowshoe. And there are slopes for every level of skier, so even if you don’t ski, why not start now? Especially since the luxurious Viceroy Snowmass, with a prime ski-in, ski-out location and a phenomenal ski valet service, offers a package for skiers that you’ll want to get your hands on. The Simply Ski package, for guests staying four or more nights, includes accommodations in a studio residence and a $175 daily resort credit, so you won’t need to worry about meals or shopping – you can spend all day skiing! And then spend your après-ski hours in the 7,000-square-foot spa or the heated outdoor pool for a little R&R.

The fitness center at the Auberge Du Soleil

For the wine-loving lady: Auberge Du Soleil in Napa Valley

So drinking a ton of wine may not be the best way to work on your health. But then again, some wine in moderation can’t hurt. In fact, studies have shown that red wine can actually be good for you (again, in moderation). Not only is it high in antioxidants, but red wine can help reduce the risk of everything from cancer to the common cold! So this new year’s, why don’t you head to Napa Valley where the plenitude of wine, and the fresh outdoor air, can do a body good? Guests at the 50-room Auberge Du Soleil, a luxury inn, have access to lush and peaceful grounds, a 7,000-square-foot spa, a lovely pool (great for doing laps), tennis courts, a private yoga studio, and a large, airy fitness center with French doors opening to more equipment on a wraparound deck – plenty of options for getting a good workout in before the wine tasting. Though this luxury resort is pricey, the Suite Life package offers a lot of value, with a two-night stay, a four-course meal for two, a free massage, and breakfast both mornings.

The pool at the Gran Bahia Principe Cayo Levantado

For the island chick: Gran Bahia Principe Cayo Levantado on Cayo Levantado, a private Carribean island

Here’s the active getaway for the island – that is, private island – chick. Start your new year off in style by whisking away to the Gran Bahia Principe Cavo Levantado, a luxury, all-inclusive resort on its own private island off the coast of the Dominican Republic. Once there, you can start getting yourself in shape while enjoying the sand, sun, and tropical breezes in the middle of the Caribbean Sea. The resort features classic amenities, like gorgeous pools, a large fitness center, and a scenic beach (with windsurfing, kayaks, catamaran rides, snorkeling, and scuba-diving lessons), but it also features a jogging circuit, tennis courts, and a studio with Pliates classes– all right at your fingertips on your private island retreat! And after a day of full-on exercise, you can dance the night away at the outdoor discotheque that stays open until 2 a.m. (the bar shuts down at midnight, but hey, you don’t need those sugary cocktails anyways). For the month of January, rates start at just $159/night – definitely a steal for a 4-star, all-inclusive resort!

The golf course at The Ritz-Carlton, Half Moon Bay

For the golfer gal: The Ritz Carlton, Half Moon Bay in Half Moon Bay, CA

So what if the folks on the golf course are usually 70-year-old retired men? It simply shows that it’s a sport you can continue to enjoy your whole life long! And it’s certainly a full-body workout (especially if you skip the golf cart and carry your bags sans caddy). Though golf can be excruciatingly frustrating, there’s a serenity to it at times – especially at the two courses at The Ritz-Carlton, Half Moon Bay. Perched on a cliff overlooking the Pacific, the Ritz-Carlton’s 18-hole Old Course, designed by Arnold Palmer, is a challenging 72-par course, and the same can be said for the Ocean Course, ranked among the top courses in California. The Legends Golf Package, offered every year, includes accommodations and unlimited golf for up to two players! You’ll really get your workout. But if you tire of the links, there are still plenty of activities to get your heart-rate going at Half Moon Bay. The resort, ranked by Tennis Magazine as one of the “Top 50 U.S. Tennis Resorts,” features tennis courts with daily clinics and the concierge can set up everything from horseback riding tours to surfing lessons.