Watch the Venice Historical Regatta from the Westin Europa and Regina

You can't beat this location for a bird's eye view of the Venice Historical Regatta on September 6, 2009. Situated directly on the Grand Canal, the Westin Europa & Regina occupies a position of privilege, housed in five centuries-old palaces, the oldest of which belonged to the Tiepolos. You'll be spoiled rotten at this five-star hotel, where the 24-hour Clefs d'Or concierge can take care of any request. But most importantly-- you'll be spoiled with the gorgeous views that inspired Claude Monet. Don't miss the Regata Storica which takes place on the first Sunday in September-- you'll witness a beautiful gondola parade, followed by fiercely-competitive races and an incredible fireworks display. Here's the skinny from the official website:

This unique sport has been practiced in the Venetian lagoon for thousands of years and today it is particularly well-known for the spectacular historical water pageant that precedes the race. Scores of typically 16th century-style boats with gondoliers in period costume carry the Doge, the Doge's wife and all the highest ranking Venetian officials up the Grand Canal in a brightly coloured parade. An unforgettable sight and a true reconstruction of the glorious past of one of most the powerful and influential Maritime Republics in the Mediterranean. The Regata Storica dates back centuries, probably as far back as the mid thirteenth century when the Serenissima needed to train the crews of its huge navy in the art of rowing.