In the late 19th century on the Illinois River, which flows southwesterly through the state, decoys were carved by market gunners, who shot birds by the thousands and sold them to high-end restaurants like Chicago's Grand Pacific Hotel, which featured 20 species of game birds on its annual game-night menu.

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On the rooftop of the Pacific Regency Hotel, Luna tops the bill for a drink with a view.

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The dramatic 377-room Fairmont Pacific Rim Hotel (opened in 2010) is a big draw for business travellers due to its spectacular location on the water and across the street from the Vancouver Convention Centre.

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"There is intense competition for what turns out to be a narrow segment that has the skills we are looking for, " said Jim Pilarski, the head of HR for Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa for hotel chain operator Marriott International Inc.

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The dispute took center stage earlier this month when defense officials from 28 Asia-Pacific nations gathered at the Shangri-La hotel in Singapore.

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Travel bookings increased by 44% during the quarter compared with the year before, thanks in part to strong hotel bookings in new markets in the South America and Asia-Pacific regions.

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The hotel has sustainable credibility (LEED certification) as well as views of the Pacific and the Santa Monica Pier.

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