PRELUDE: IN THE KNOW

1. It’s On Tonight

The laidback contemporary jazz of Brian Culbertson’s eighth album It’s On Tonight is unashamedly sensual. From “Hookin’ Up” to “Forbidden Love,” the mood is set to seduction with mellow instrumentals and smooth guest vocals from the likes of Will Downing and Patti Austin accompanying Culbertson’s piano. The album oozes romance through to the final track, “Reflections,” in which an elegant piano solo does all the talking. Catch Brian Culbertson live in Raleigh, NC, September 24 and Newport Beach, CA, September 30. It’s On Tonight is available now on GRP Records. www.brianculbertson.com

2. Sweet Suites

You can forget about trying to sweet-talk the front desk manager into an upgrade, The Omni Chicago Hotel would have it no other way. After a $9.5-million renovation, all 347 guest rooms are now suites, complete with bedroom and elegant parlor, separated by classic French doors. Sepia-toned vintage photographs of Chicago adorn the walls and glossy granite covers the countertops. Make your way into the sitting room and unwind while watching the Bulls on the wall-mounted 37” plasma screen TV included with every room, or head down to the American Bistro for fine Italian and American cuisine. www.omnihotels.com

3. Atlanta Wi-fi

With laptops becoming more and more a part of the travel experience, especially for business travelers, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport has taken the lead on offering flyers the latest and greatest technology. Starting near the end of this month, laptop users will be able to connect to the world via the airport’s state-of-theart wireless internet system, which will include more than 100 access points covering all 5.8 million square feet of the airport, making the airport itself one huge hotspot. So take out your computer and log on. www.atlanta-airport.com

4. Soundwalk

Don’t want to be dragged around New York City with a group of over-eager tourists? Does being led around by a tour guide make you cringe? Pop one of the hip Soundwalk audio tour CDs into your Discman or load it onto your iPod and let the music and voices of city locals steer you around their streets. With a collection of neighborhoods to choose from, you can stroll through Chinatown and catch Buddhist temples and tea parlors that you would otherwise walk right past. Or head to the Bronx and allow an usher from 1958 to lead you around Yankee Stadium. www.soundwalk.com