Vacation Deals to Cure the Winter Blues
In the mood for a little mid-winter R&R? Wherever you live, chances are there’s an affordable getaway just a short drive away. These domestic deals stretch coast to coast:
The Gastonome’s Beach Retreat
Check into the Hotel Shangri-la in Santa Monica, CA, for a hedonistic seaside weekend: book two nights at $475/night, and you’ll enjoy a guided Malibu wine tasting tour for two, a private chef’s dinner featuring ingredients from the local farmer’s market with cocktail pairings, and score a free upgrade to an Ocean View One Bedroom Suite (complete with a chef’s kitchen for any further culinary experimentation). Total savings nabbed: $800. (To book, call (310) 394-2791.)
The All-Inclusive Snow-Fest
Seeking the white stuff? Lost Trail Powder Mountain in Montana has already seen 130” worth this season, topping more popular (and more expensive) destinations nearby. The All-Inclusive deal at Relais & Chateaux property Triple Creek Ranch (pictured at top) merges ample opportunities for adventure and indulgence—four nights in a Luxury cabin, lift tickets, rental equipment for alpine and cross country skiing, a 7-course tasting dinner, packed lunches and endless wine and snacks (did we mention freshly baked cookies?). The crowning touches: horseback riding and dog sledding are available on premises and part of the package deal. Four night stays from $4,130. Total savings nabbed: $300 per person.
Big City Culture and Couture
Because shopping is as much a cultural experience in New York as anything else, the Ritz-Carlton teamed up with Bergdorf Goodman to dream up the ultimate girls’ weekend out. The weekend starts with high tea at Bergdorf’s and includes personal access to the store’s shopping experts, tickets to the New York City Ballet, a stay in one of the Ritz’s fancy Park View rooms, and breakfast on the house. All you’ll need to top it off is a facial and massage. From $995 per night. Total savings nabbed: $1200 per weekend.
The Romantic Countryside Escape
A pastoral inn with manicured gardens, roaring fireplaces, and spades of Southern charm—who can resist? The Fearrington House (a top pick for value in our 2011 World’s Best Survey) is at it again, with a Winter Getaway deal that’ll let you enjoy the great—er, cozy—indoors. English tea service, expansive breakfast spreads, and port and truffle turndown are a few perks meant to warm you up whether or not you decide to stroll (or bike) through the scenic country grounds. From $410 per night. Total savings nabbed: $67 per night, plus a $25 gift card for local shopping in the village.
The Picture of Paradise
What’s often seen as the ultimate American splurge destination is getting the frugal treatment, with killer deals for fares courtesy of Hawaiian Airlines and great value at the Hyatt Regency Waikiki Beach Resort and Spa, who is celebrating their $13 million renovation with starting rates as low as $219. Use the booking code “WWOW” and you’ll also score a free upgrade, plus 20% off the property’s two new restaurants: the Thai-inflected Japengo and Shor American Seafood Grill. Total savings nabbed: upwards of $80 per night.
Nikki Goldstein is an editorial assistant at Travel + Leisure.