SPAIN: BARCELONA BOUND

Architecture buffs have yet another reason to visit Antonio Gaudi's hometown with this month's opening of the W Barcelona designed by world-renowned Spanish architect Ricardo Bofill. Situated at Nova Bocana, where the Barceloneta beach boardwalk commences, the 26-story, sail-shaped hotel features 473 rooms, Spain's first Bliss Spa and Eclipse, a glamorous rooftop bar overlooking the city and the Mediterranean.

Details: www.w-barcelona.com.

UTAH: BIG WINNER

The weight-loss reality show The Biggest Loser has spawned books and exercise videos. Now, its latest offspring is a resort/spa in Ivins, The Biggest Loser Resort at Fitness Ridge, where guests can undergo the same kind of intensive exercise and diet regimen as seen on TV.

Details: Rates start at $1,595 a week; www.biggestloserresort.com.

-- WASHINGTON POST SERVICE

THE BAHAMAS: SWIM WITH THE FISHES

The Atlantis, Paradise Island resort has introduced new programs giving guests the opportunity get up close and personal giant manta rays and sea lions, along with the more than 50,000 marine animals. In the ``Snorkel with the Mantas'' program, guests snorkel in the Ruins Lagoon, the resort's largest marine exhibit, with the rays along with zebra sharks, snappers and hundreds of schools of tropical fish. In the sea lion program, visitors get some face-to-face moments with the playful critters as well as a swim in their their home in Dolphin Cay.

Details: 1-800-ATLANTIS or www.Atlantis.com.

FRANCE: LUXE RENEWAL

Founded in 1900 by the notorious Irish journalist/novelist Frank Harris, a close friend of Oscar Wilde, and a favorite retreat of royalty and celebrities, the French Riviera's Cap Estel has undergone yet another transformation. The historic hotel near Nice and Monte Carlo was modernized between 2001 and 2004, and this year updated to incorporate new rooms and state-of-the-art technology. Secluded on its own five-acre peninsula jutting into the Mediterranean, Cap Estel has four separate villas with 14 suites and four rooms accommodating just 55 guests.

Details: www.capestel.com.

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