HotelChatter

LEED certification is related to sustainable construction and building practices, so as a visitor many of their innovations may not be easy to detect. Just know that those are low and non-emitting paints on the walls, that 50 percent of the resort's electricity comes from renewable sources, and on-site Spa Anjali is officially the state's first "dedicated green spa", using only eco-friendly products and luxe organic spa linens (no scratchy synthetic sheets, we assure you).

Rather than marking the occasion with a simple toast, it's you that can reap the benefits along with Mother Earth. The Westin Riverfront Green Package offers rates of $149 per night for a studio suite (off season only; the fee rises to $319 per night during winter time) and includes charitable extras like a purchase of carbon credits to offset emissions, complimentary parking for hybrids and carpool groups of two or more, and the option to take part in Westin's "Make a Green Choice" program, where you can opt out of towel and linen replacement in favor of a $5 gift card or 500 Starpoints during you stay.

There is also a Riverfront Green Spa Package, which includes everything above plus a $150 spa credit and stainless steel Spa Anjali water bottle for $199 per night, with a three night minimum stay. Perusing the hotel's website—including "Specials" and the booking page—we didn't see any specific place to sign up for said green packages, so it appears that this is, yet again, one of those call-the-hotel-directly-to-get-the-deal situations. We applaud the Westin's commitment to green living, but wish their related deals were point-and-click easy to find online.

[Photo: indigoprime]