With vacation season on the horizon, travelers hunting for a bargain will find wallet-friendly options in Belize as hotels are slashing prices and boosting inclusive packages for the summer months.
Home to the second largest barrier reef in the world, ancient Maya temples, exotic wildlife and more, Belize provides an unforgettable vacation. And with a fixed exchange rate of BZ$2 to US$1, travelers will naturally save even more on their summer trips.
Below is a list of specific offers that begin in the summer and run through Belize’s low season (October 31) and are tailored to fit a range of travelers - from couples seeking romantic escapes to families in search of safe summer destinations. Travelers can also find a full roster of hot summer deals on Belize’s official travel website, TravelBelize.org.
SUMMER ROMANCE FOR A BARGAIN
Featuring remote islands, mesmerizing waterfalls and affordable luxuries, Belize is the ideal getaway for couples in search of rousing romantic destinations. From seaside star-gazing on the white beaches of Placencia to breathtaking sunsets on the Maya temples of Caracol in the Cayo District, Belize’s awe-inspiring attractions are sure to sizzle any couple’s summer. While the country’s romance website, Belize In Love, features romantic packages offered year-round, below are two summer deals perfect for stirring up a little romance.
Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".
Look for hundreds of gas saving offers from inns and B&Bs at www.BetterwaytoStay.comGas prices are rising and innkeepers are coming to the rescue with a “kick gas” promotion. To help relieve pain at the pumps for travelers, inns and B&Bs throughout the U.S. and Canada are going the extra mile by offering gas savings of all kinds. Rallied by the Better Way To Stay campaign, a grassroots “experience B&Bs” campaign, hundreds of innkeepers throughout the U.S. and Canada are helping travelers save at the gas pumps under the umbrella of B&Bs Kick Gas!.
Innkeepers have created offers including everything from free gas cards and gas credits (savings on a stay to put into the gas tank), to free tune ups for the car, and rewards for carpooling or driving eco-friendly vehicles. Simply visit www.BetterWayToStay.com where gas or eco-driving offers from almost every state in the United States and many Canadian provinces can be easily searched geographically.
“Innkeepers are pumped to help travelers underwrite the cost of travel this spring and summer,” said Jay Karen, CEO of the Professional Association of Innkeepers International, the organization spearheading the Better Way To Stay campaign. “The B&Bs Kick Gas! campaign, has rallied inns and B&Bs in the US and Canada to encourage those who might be anxious to travel this spring due to rising costs,” finished Karen.
Most B&Bs Kick Gas! offers provide a $25 or greater incentive, complimentary breakfast daily and afternoon refreshments when guests stay for two or more days.
Click here to read more and learn about offers from inns, B&B associations and consortiums.
Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".
Gray Whales Return to The Saratoga Passage
Inn at Langley offers special mid-week watch-the-whales rate
Each spring, the Saratoga Passage between Whidbey and Camano islands becomes a temporary home to migrating Gray Whales. The giant mammals are drawn to the Puget Sound’s rich, shallow feeding grounds as they travel north from the Baja coast to the waters of the Arctic. From about mid-March through May, the passage plays host to up to a dozen whales.
The balconies at The Inn at Langley are ideal spots from which to watch the slow-rolling whales gather food and listen to the faint and soothing sounds of their breathing. In celebration of the whales’ return, The Inn is offering special mid-week room rates starting at $225 until May 13, 2011.
“Every year, we are amazed by these majestic creatures as they return to feed and frolic directly off shore from the Inn,” said Inn general manager and chef, Matt Costello. “There’s even a whale bell in downtown Langley about a block from The Inn that people are encouraged to ring when they spot a whale.”
For guests hoping for a look from the water, The Inn is partnering with a local tour boat operator. Guests need only mention they are interested in a charter whale watching tour when making a reservation at The Inn and the Inn staff will make arrangements.
Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".
Travelers exploring America this spring will be able to stretch their travel dollar even farther thanks to Choice Hotels and a new Choice Privileges promotion where members can earn a $50 gas card after just two separate stays. Book a reservation at ChoiceHotels.com or 800-4CHOICE and stay two separate times at any Choice Hotels property between March 3 and May 4, 2011, and receive enough Choice Privileges points to redeem for a $50 gas card to use anytime.*
What’s more, guests who register at ChoiceHotels.com are eligible to earn more than one $50 gas card during the promotion. Also, Choice Privileges Elite Platinum and Elite Diamond members can book their qualifying stays through any channel. Qualifying stays at Choice Hotels economy and extended stay brand properties, including MainStay Suites, Suburban Extended Stay Hotel, Econo Lodge and Rodeway Inn hotels, must be a minimum of two consecutive nights.
For more information about the ChoicePrivileges rewards program, as well as other promotional offers by Choice Hotels, visit choicehotels.com.
About Choice Hotels
Choice Hotels International, Inc. franchises more than 6,000 hotels, representing more than 495,000 rooms, in the United States and more than 30 other countries and territories. As of December 31, 2010, more than 500 hotels were under construction, awaiting conversion or approved for development in the United States, representing more than 40,000 rooms, and more than 100 hotels, representing approximately 9,000 rooms, are under construction, awaiting conversion or approved for development in 18 other countries and territories.The company’s Comfort Inn, Comfort Suites, Quality, Sleep Inn, Clarion, Cambria Suites, MainStay Suites, Suburban Extended Stay Hotel, Econo Lodge and Rodeway Inn brands serve guests worldwide.In addition, via its Ascend Collection membership program, travelers in the United States, Canada and the Caribbean have upscale lodging options at historic, boutique and unique hotels.
Source: Choice Hotels International
Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".
With Fat Tuesday right around the corner, Mardi Gras travelers can still save up to 30% on select hotels with hotels.com. Better yet, savings are available in both the U.S. as well as Canada, to make sure everyone can enjoy the party!
Sample Deals:
New Orleans
Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".
Winter may be Santa Fe’s best kept secret, but it won’t be for long with winter deals like these.
The first annual Santa Fe Winter Fiesta takes place February 18 - 27, 2011 throughout Santa Fe’s historic streets and in the nearby Rocky Mountains.
Each day will be a celebration of the season with daily special events focusing on Santa Fe’s bountiful outdoor opportunities, Native American and Spanish cultures, the region’s savory and diverse cuisine, the city’s performing arts, and Santa Fe’s endless fine arts.
Lots of winter events and Santa Fe Specials are available plus hotel packages with value pricing and additional savings opportunities around town, including:
- Stay one night get one free offers are available at Luxx Hotel, Lodge at Santa Fe and Hotel Plaza Real
- Spa and resort packages up to 50% off
- 505 Bar Crawl Friday, February 18th - FREE ADMISSION
- Discounted snowshoe and skiing
- Santa Fe School of Cooking Classes 30% off
- Dining at famous resaturants 20 - 60 % off
- SEE ALL DEALS
A Winter Fiesta Pass lanyard ($20) is the key to savings for many events, venues, classes and programs.
For more Santa Fe information and Winter Fiesta deals visit: www.SantaFeWinterFiesta.com
Source: Santa Fe Conventions and Visitors Bureau
Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".
THE FINE PRINT: Not applicable to groups, existing business or with any other offer. New reservations are pre-paid, non-refundable at time of booking. Blackout dates may apply.
RESERVATIONS: To book a reservation, call 800.732.2240 or book directly with this link
Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".
A selection of packages and special rates currently offered by Amelia Island accommodators for Valentine’s Day 2011, include:
Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".
Located on the western slopes of the Tetons, Grand Targhee Ski Resort is regionally known as the Rocky Mountain’s best kept secret. Their abundance of champagne powder snow, coupled with Teton Springs luxury accommodations, makes this affordable lodging, lift and breakfast package a perfect romantic getaway or family winter vacation.
- Luxury Accommodations in a Deluxe Lodge Room
- Daily Deluxe Continental Breakfast
- 1 Day Lift Ticket at Grand Targhee Resort
No Minimum Stay Required. Upgrades Available. Price based on double occupancy and does not include resort fee, taxes, or gratuities. Based on availability and not valid with any other promotion. 11/25/2010 - 4/17/2011. From $135 per person per night.
All packages can be modified to better suit your needs. Options include additional days of heli-skiing, snow cat skiing, or lift tickets at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort.
Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".
Jamaica is rolling out the red carpet to welcome visitors for the 2010/2011 winter travel season, which officially kicks off December 15, 2010. Many of Jamaica’s hotels, resorts and attractions have created special packages for travelers who seek a warm weather escape from the plummeting temperatures up north.
From family fun and romantic retreats to winter bliss at the Ritz, here are a few choice deals:
Family Fun
Half Moon’s Family Escape package is valid from January 5 through April 15, 2011. The package includes daily nanny service for two children under four years old and complimentary breakfast. The property’s Very Important Little Persons Service (VILPS) will treat kids with a special gift upon arrival, access to Half Moon’s Anancy Children’s Village and Sleepy Treat. Rates begin at $690 for double occupancy for a Junior Suite. Booking deadline is April 11, 2011. www.halfmoon.com
Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".
The cozy and intimate surroundings of Olympic National Park set the stage for a relaxing winter getaway, and this year it’s more affordable than ever. With the End 2010 with $20.10 Deal, visitors can stay one night at Lake Quinault Lodge or Kalaloch Lodge for $99 and get the second night for ONLY $20.10 for November and December travel! Rates like this won’t last long, and visitors must book the deal by Nov. 30.
Although it’s one of the wettest regions in the Northwest, there are plenty of indoor and outdoor activities available to complement an Olympic Peninsula winter escape, rain or shine. Included below are a few highlights…
- Storm watching from a cozy cabin at Kalaloch Lodge, as wild Pacific waves crash against boulders.
- Taking a rain forest tour at Lake Quinault Lodge, when fall and winter downpours create the most vibrant setting of the year.
- Watching for the region’s diverse bird species including crossbills, dippers, warrbleers, chichadees, nuthatches and thrusthes.
- Indulging in the culinary delights of Chef Patrick Norris at Lake Quinault Lodge’s Roosevelt Room, featuring contemporary twists on Northwest fare.
- Relaxing fireside in both lodge’s fireplace rooms or the grand fireplace in Lake Quinault Lodge’s lobby.
The package is valid for visits from Nov. 1 to Dec. 30, 2010 and blackout dates include Nov. 23-26 and Dec. 22-26. Reservations for both lodges can be made by visiting www.olympicnationalparks.com or by calling (866) 297-7367.
Source: ARAMARK Parks and Destinations
Photo: Lake Quinault Lodge, courtesy of ARAMARK Parks and Destinations.
Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".
pool area, Capella Pedregal Los CabosHotels participating in “Luxe for Less” include some of the region’s most luxurious including, Capella Pedregal, Esperanza Resort, Las Ventanas al Paraiso, Marquis Los Cabos, One&Only Palmilla and Zoëtry Casa del Mar, among others. Click here for more information and to view a complete list of the amazing deals currently being offered through the end of 2010 and into 2011. Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".
August might be the best time to book a last-minute summer travel weekend getaway, and Marriott’s popular Summer in the City hotel deal in four East Coast cities - Boston, New York, Philadelphia, and Washington D.C. - is still available Thursdays-Sundays* through September 6, 2010.
photo by WanderingtheWorld via flickr (commons license)
Packages include free sightseeing passes and breakfast, based on availability, at 33 participating JW Marriott, Marriott Hotel & Resorts, Renaissance Hotels & Resorts, Courtyard and Residence Inn by Marriott properties.
Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".
- Two Night Accommodations
- Two Tickets to the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum
- Free Shuttle Service to the Museum
- ‘Healthy Start’ Breakfast
Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".
Check out these special savings from Biras Creek Resort, one of my favorite Caribbean escapes…
Booking Special: 50% Off the Second Suite 
A bicycle built for two. A double-scoop cone. Diamond Earrings. Some things are just better in pairs. Something else that goes great when there are two: vacations. So what could be more fun than an exotic Caribbean getaway? Bringing a few of your favorite people with you. For a limited time, Biras Creek Resort - a private escape situated on Virgin Gorda in the British Virgin Islands - is offering an amazing deal to bring your friends, kids (Biras allows children ages six and older), even your in-laws, at a significant savings. When you book your stay, your second stay is available at 50% published rates. Based on availability. Not retroactive and cannot be combined with other offers. Valid for travel through December 17, 2010.
7 Nights for the Price of 6!
Biras Creek is tempting visitors with a special Stay 6 Nights and receive 1 Night Complimentary, plus a $100 Resort Credit offer. The offer is good for the luxurious Ocean Suites, each with an ocean view and balcony 20 feet from the ocean; nightly rates are all inclusive of meals, activities, and accommodations for two people. Based on availability. Not retroactive and cannot be combined with other offers. Valid for travel through December 17, 2010.
For more information contact 877.883.0756 or visit biras.com.
Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".
Griffin Gate Marriott Resort & Spa offers special Kentucky Derby rates.
If you haven’t already made your Lexington hotel reservation for the Kentucky Derby, check out the special event rate from Griffin Gate Marriott Resort & Spa from $269 per night.
The Griffin Gate Marriott Resort & Spa is located an hour from Churchill Downs and boasts easy access to I-64. The Lexington hotel is also situated on over 220 picturesque acres, making it the perfect escape for horse-aficionados and enthusiasts to get away and enjoy some time away during this infamous event.
Before or after you sport big hats and sip Mint Juleps at the race, enjoy the property’s 18-hole golf course, full service spa, indoor and outdoor pools, outdoor fire pit, state-of-the-art fitness center and fabulous dining. Or, bring the whole family to the nearby Kentucky Horse Park where you can get up close and personal with a variety of horses with a hands-on animal experience.
The Kentucky Derby rate is per room, plus tax. The rate is valid from April 29, 2010 to May 2, 2010 and based upon availability.
Visit www.griffingatemarriott.com for more information or to make a reservation. Also, visit http://www.kyhorsepark.com/ for more information on attractions and events.
Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".
The Newcastle Inn near Boothbay Harbor, ME, is one of the many Maine Innkeeper Association members participating in Hospitality for Habitat. The Maine Innkeepers Association (MEIA) has just the ticket with the 7th Annual Hospitality for Habitat program. While this program is designed to raise funds for local chapters of Habitat for Humanity, it’s a great way to save on B&B travel in Maine throughout April and May. Save on accommodations so others can have them? It’s a great formula for a B&B getaway that’ll offer something for you and others in need.
The program is simple. Travel between April 26 and May 28, 2010, and participating Maine Innkeeper member properties will offer a designated number of their rooms at half the regular rate, in exchange for a $35 check payable to Habitat for Humanity. Some properties have extended the dates. To learn more about these special packages and see photos of participating inns, click here.
Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".
For only $149.50 per night, this all inclusive Spring Package provides:
Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".
Viva Mexico! Pueblo Bonito Emerald Bay, Mazatlán; Every Second Night Free, April 11 through June 30, 2010.
Spring is upon us and there is no better time to take advantage of the lush tropical gardens, pristine beaches and personal service provided by the attentive staff at Pueblo Bonito Emerald Bay, located in the area known as “New Mazatlán,” especially with two-for-one pricing on accommodations.
Travelers can relax and enjoy the resort’s complete array of services and amenities, including the new 16,500 square foot Spa, one of the largest in Mazatlán. The special rates make this a very affordable vacation experience, featuring exceptional accommodations, fine cuisine, the history, culture and beauty of the city — and miles and miles of breathtaking beach.
WHERE: Pueblo Bonito Emerald Bay, Mazatlán
WHAT: Vacationers can stay at the oceanfront resort and spa with every second night free. Prices are per room/unit with 2 guests. Prices do not include: taxes, service fees, and extra guest charges
WHEN: Offer is valid for bookings between April 11 through June 30, 2010
TO BOOK: For additional information and to book, visit www.pueblobonito.com or call
1-800-990-8250. Find out about additional special offers between April 11 and June 30, 2010 at other Pueblo Bonito Resorts and Spas in Los Cabos and Mazatlán at www.pueblobonito.com/specials.
Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".
A tax refund, no matter what the amount, is reason to celebrate these days and San Francisco’s Orchard Hotels make it ‘EZ’ and fun to enjoy the refund. The “1040 ‘EZ’ Refund Package” offers discounted amenity-filled guestrooms and “Delicious Tax Incentives” – including W-2 ‘double’ cocktails – specially created to eliminate the stress that comes with tax season. Valid from April 15 to June 15, 2010. See package details below: Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".