Travel Steals & Deals by Ellen Barone

Discover Yacht Cruising for Less with American Safari Cruises

2010-02-25T16:04:32Z

Discover the inner reaches of the Hawaiian Islands and Mexico’s Sea of Cortés with exclusive savings from America Safari Cruises.

An American Safari yacht cruise is one of my all-time favorite travel experiences. I’m not alone. Each time my husband and I have sailed with them (4 voyages), a majority of our fellow passengers are repeat guests experiencing their third, fourth, tenth, ASC cruise. Now, thanks to an extended season in Mexico’s Sea of Cortez and inaugural Hawaiian Island sailing, you can experience the magic for less. Charter the 12-passenger Safari Spirit for a family getaway or group of friends by March 12, 2010 and save 25% off the full charter price. Or, sail aboard the 36-passenger Safari Explorer for the inaugural Hawaiian Island season beginning October 26, 2010 and save $500* per person.

American Safari Cruises are designed for active adventurers who want to escape to unknown harbors without sacrificing comfort. Their exclusive itineraries remain “below the radar” because larger vessels simply can’t get you there. The world is certainly vast, but it’s best experienced in small doses — up-close and yacht personal. And unlike most cruise ships, the 36-guest Safari Explorer, 22-guest Safari Quest and 12-guest Safari Spirit cruise during daylight hours only, maximizing your opportunities to truly experience nature.

All-inclusive amenities available on every voyage include:

Gourmet meals - View sample menu (PDF)
Premium wine, beer and spirits - View sample wine list (PDF)
Kayaking and shore boat exploring
Snorkel gear (Mexico and Hawaii)
Fishing (Alaska)
Exclusive shore excursions
Onboard Expedition Leader/Naturalist or wine expert
Airport transfers
Port Charges, taxes, fees
Massages (Safari Explorer )
Visits with local residents - “talk story”

Winter Sale Fare to Italy on Alitalia at Orbitz

2010-02-19T22:36:34Z

Fly to the most exciting Italian destinations on Alitalia between February 19 and March 21, 2010.

With Orbitz’s winter sale fares you have your pick of beautiful and historic cities from the Alps to Sicily. If you’ve been waiting for good Winter fare to Italy, this is it…

Sample Round-trip Fares:

Chicago - Florence: $609

Chicago - Venice: $609

NYC - Rome: $548

Boston - Milan: $601

Deluxe Cruising on a Limited Budget

2010-02-17T17:23:04Z

Significant Mediterranean Deals Found on Fred. Olsen Cruises

If cruising the Mediterranean fits your idea of a vacation, then Fred. Olson Cruises offers a few budget-friendly itineraries that you should know about…

With value-charged rates starting from $117 per night – plus a $120 on board spending credit per cabin consider Fred. Olsen Cruises’ 14-night “Splendors of Spain” (L1017) itinerary on the 1,350-passenger Balmoral. Port charges and taxes are also included in the price. This stylish vessel departs Dover on October 12, 2010, offering one of the most evocative panoramas in all of Britain: the massive white cliffs. The scenery continues, nonstop, past the Rock of Gibraltar, to the waterfront Mecca at Mahon (Menorca), the bustling seaport of Marseille (France), incredible Barcelona, historic Alicante, and the “open museum” of Malaga before returning to England.

Santa Fe Sage Inn Ski Getaway

2010-02-12T01:45:15Z

Santa Fe Sage Inn Ski Getaway Includes:2 Night Accommodations & 2 Full Day Lift Tickets

Santa Fe Sage Inn Ski Getaway
Its time to visit beautiful Santa Fe and hit the slopes.
Book a two-night Ski Getaway at the Santa Fe Sage Inn and get a day of skiing for you and friend. After a day of skiing explore the new Railyard shopping and dining district. The Santa Fe Sage Inn has a free downtown shuttle service…so you can immerse yourself in art and history in Santa Fe’s many museums or galleries. Enjoy the hotel’s free “Healthy Start” breakfast, exercise facility, wireless internet access, guest laundry and pet friendly lodging. Packages start at $230

Tucan Travel Hot Deals February 2010

2010-02-09T18:05:31Z

Passionate about adventure travel since 1987, overland tour operator Tucan Travel offers hundreds of high quality, affordable and exciting travel experiences.   Here are 13 recession-friendly February deals* to tempt you:

Prices listed in British pounds, for online currency conversions visit www.xe.com

1. Classic Antarctica 50% off second passenger offer - 28 Feb & 20 Mar departures. Cost: From £3367.50 per person. (Based on £4490 full price plus half price for 2^nd person £2245, divided in half. Twin share C cabin in low season.)  Tour Page: http://www.tucantravel.com/tour/classic-antarctica/ratc/ 11 day cruise from Ushuaia to the Antarctic Peninsula. Journey in the M/V Ushuaia, an adapted expedition vessel to the great White Continent, where you’ll be totally mesmerized by sightings of large penguin colonies, magnificent whales, and breathtaking icebergs and glaciers.

2. 15% off ALL Overland Expeditions in Africa departing in 2010 Choose ANY Overland Expeditions tour from 18 to 70 days, ANY departures in 2010. Example tour: http://www.tucantravel.com/tour/mountain-gorilla-safari/fmg/. Cost: Discounted tour price £484.50 plus local payment US$310 and gorilla permit £360.16 day escorted group Overland Expedition from Nairobi to Kampala taking in Kenya, Uganda and Rwanda. This fascinating journey encompasses Lake Nakuru National Park, QEII National Park, Lake Bunyoni, the adrenaline capital Jinja and an opportunity to trek to the mountain gorillas of Rwanda. Travel on modern, custom-built expedition vehicles and stay in pleasant hotels and campsites. Book before 28/02. International flights not included.

3. Images of India 15% off tour price of 06 Mar 2010. Cost: Discounted tour price £459 plus local payment US$370. Tour Page: http://www.tucantravel.com/tour/images-of-india/bxii/ 21 day escorted group Adventure Tour from Delhi to Delhi. Discover incredible India, from towering fortresses atop desert landscapes, serene hillside communities and majestic architecture created in the name of love. Go on a desert camel safari, observe tigers in Ranthambore, discover religious monuments in southern Rajasthan, and lose yourself weaving through Delhi’s chaotic markets. Travel on local transport and stay in pleasant hotels. Book before 28/02. International flights not included.

4. Cuban Rhapsody 15% off tour price of 05 Mar 2010. Cost: Discounted tour price £1,062.50 plus local payment €510. Tour Page: http://www.tucantravel.com/tour/cuban-rhapsody/cur/ 22 day escorted group Adventure Tour from Havana to Havana. Journey from the faded glory of Havana to the colourful Caribbean flavour of Santiago, and experience stunning landscapes, Cuba’s rich and complex history, explore colonial towns and enjoy the hospitality of local people in homestay accommodation. Travel on local transport and stay in pleasant hotels. Book before 28/02. International flights not included.

5. Penguino 15% off tour price of 18 Feb, 21 Mar 2010.

Taos: Last Minute Savings

2010-02-07T03:30:22Z

Here’s a deal from a personal favorite…

Casa de Las Chimeneas Inn & Spa: Winter White Sale

Lowest rates of the year at one of Taos’ finest properties. Enjoy exceptional savings at Casa de las Chimeneas Inn & Spa, rated Four Diamond by AAA and selected by Conde Naste Traveler magazine for the 2009 coveted Gold List. With discounts up to 55% off and rates starting as low as $130 per night, you can’t go wrong!

Expiration Date: February 11, 2010
For More Information: 877-758-4777; visittaos.com

Save $500 On A Crewed Yacht Vacation

2010-02-05T21:54:41Z

Plan An Island Vacation & Save

Vacation between March 20 - May 8, 2010 in four of The Moorings’ most exotic destinations – Tortola, Canouan, St. Lucia, or Tahiti – and SAVE $500.* Book by February 28, 2010.

The all-inclusive vacation comes complete with a professional Captain with custom itineraries to exotic locales and unique destinations.

Click here to check availability & get more information.

I’m a huge fan of The Moorings. To get a feel for a Moorings vacation you can read about my British Virgin Islands sailing adventure with them or view photos from the voyage. Better yet, if you’ve sailed with them, please share your experiences using the ‘post a comment’ link below.

Whistler's SuperSAVER-Spring Break

2010-02-04T21:59:51Z

PAN PACIFIC WHISTLER VILLAGE CENTRE INSPIRES A GETAWAY TO THIS OLYMPIC DESTINATION FOR SPRING BREAK WITH SuperSAVER RATES AND RECORD BREAKING SNOW LEVELS

Once the thrill of the 2010 Winter Games is behind us, Whistler will bask in the glory of its widespread international appeal and that will leave the victorious slopes open for business to those who want to get their game on. In addition to the glory and world-class allure generated by the Olympics, Whistler has seen record breaking snow levels this season.

In order to accommodate winter sports enthusiasts and those looking for a Spring Break Getaway, Pan Pacific Whistler Village Centre is offering special SuperSAVER rates starting at only CAD$289 for a one bedroom suite and CAD$416 for a two bedroom suite. Available through April 30, 2010, rates quoted are for double occupancy in Valley View Suites and are valid for bookings made by February 28, 2010. This offer is based on availability and restrictions may apply.

In addition to these SuperSAVER rates, guests of Pan Pacific Whistler Village Centre enjoy: daily breakfast buffet in the guest exclusive Pacific Lounge; luxurious suites featuring full kitchens, fireplaces and balconies; complimentary wireless Internet and local calls; one of the best pool decks in Whistler with a heated outdoor salt water pool, two hot tubs and sauna; slopeside ski valet and storage at Pan Pacific Whistler Mountainside; signing privileges at Dubh Linn Gate Pub and the Salomon Store in Pan Pacific Whistler Mountainside; and access to the in-house full service Vital Spirit Spa.

Heat Up Spring Break with Hot Hawaii Specials

2010-01-21T17:52:31Z

Brrr! With unprecedented low temperatures dipping into negative numbers across North America, Aston Hotel & Resorts in Hawaii is calling visitors to come in from the cold with its own “hot” numbers: up to 45 percent off at select properties during April, May and June.

Plan now to heat up your spring break with the following Spring Specials:

Aston Waikiki Beach Hotel: A hip Hawaiian-themed hotel with ocean views in almost every room. Aston Waikiki Beach Hotel’s signature offering is “Breakfast on the Beach,” a variety of to-go breakfast items that can be packed in a keepsake souvenir cooler. From $109 for a standard hotel room. Rooms with daily breakfast start from $128 for partial ocean view accommodations. Available now through January 31 for travel dates of April 1 through June 30.

Aston at the Waikiki Banyan: A family-friendly condominium resort with the best recreation deck in Waikiki. From $128 for a one-bedroom standard suite that accommodates up to 5 people. Available now through June 22 for travel dates of April 1 through June 22.

Aston Waikiki Beach Tower: Waikiki’s most luxurious condominium offers priceless ocean views and superior service. From $301 for a one-bedroom deluxe oceanfront suite.

New Zealand From $1,253 on Air Tahiti Nui with 3 Nights Free in Tahiti

2010-01-19T20:35:42Z

TRADE WINTER FOR SUMMER IN THE SUNNY SOUTH PACIFIC

If the bitter winter chill is giving you the blues, then the soft sands, balmy sun, and warm breezes of New Zealand and Tahiti are the perfect antidote. Air Tahiti Nui makes getting to this natural South Pacific combination simple with its time-limited “Summer In New Zealand” fare, offering roundtrip Moana (economy) class air to Auckland from only $1,253 including taxes and fees – plus a free, one-time three-day Tahiti stopover and stay at one of three resorts, based on double occupancy. Resort options include the Hilton Hotel Tahiti, Radisson Plaza Resort Tahiti, or Sofitel Tahiti Maeva Beach Resort. Bookings must be made by February 1 for travel January 25 through June 15, 2010.

Less than eight hours nonstop from Los Angeles International Airport, exotic Tahiti is unspoiled and lush, with azure waters and year-round sun. Never rushed nor hurried, visitors can choose to do as much or as little here as they please. Explore beautiful flora and fauna via easy walking trails or expeditions to the island’s volcanic center, or hop over to the heart-shaped island of Moorea for a day trip to enjoy leisurely catamaran rides through beautiful side-by-side bays and shopping for French Polynesia’s famed Tahitian black pearls. Those in search of relaxation and romance will love the stunning black and white sand beaches, sunset lagoon cruises, and spa treatments featuring Monoi oil – while families and kids can enjoy friendly shark and ray feedings and scenic helicopter rides.

Of the three resort options, families might enjoy the Hilton Hotel’s “Special Family Offer” of one child staying free with two adults, while larger groups might take advantage of the Radisson Plaza Resort’s “Suite Upgrade” option to an ocean view duplex for just $120 extra per person. Alternately, for that same extra price per person, luxury-lovers can upgrade to one of three higher-end properties instead: Intercontinental Resort Tahiti, Manava Suite Resort Tahiti – where not one, but two children can stay free with two adults – or Le Meridien Tahiti.

For more information on Air Tahiti Nui and to book these specials visit http://www.airtahitinui-usa.com/3daystopover or call 1-877-824-4846.

Togwotee Mountain Lodge Offers 'No Snow, No Show' Guarantee

2010-01-19T05:32:02Z

Togwotee Mountain Lodge is pledging a “no snow, no show” guarantee. For the first time guests can cancel their winter reservations at no cost within 72 hours of their trip in the event of poor snow conditions at the resort.

Snowmobilers and vacationers who book now can also receive a 25 percent discount off the room and sled through the Friends of Togwotee special, available through Feb. 11, 2010. The discount is available on all room types, and both guided and unguided snowmobile rentals qualify. The Friends of Togwotee 25 percent discount is also available on the Togwotee Winter package.

Togwotee Mountain Lodge, a mountain resort nestled high above Jackson Hole, WY in the mountains of the Bridger-Teton National Forest near Yellowstone National Park, accumulates hundreds of inches of fresh powder each year. The snow season starts in mid-December and snowmobilers have the best chance of avoiding crowds and experiencing fresh snow on the trails through January. Togwotee Mountain Lodge refreshes its fleet every year and has added 30 new powder sleds this year from Arctic Cat and Polaris, available to rent at some of the lowest prices ever offered.

Air Canada Executive First to Asia for Less

2010-01-19T02:46:59Z

Getting from here to Asia just got a whole lot more comfortable. A fully flat bed, in-seat power, and a personal touch-screen TV with over 300 hours of on-demand entertainment - everything designed to make flying as comfortable as possible in your Air Canada Executive First Suite.

At the airport you’ll also have access to Maple Leaf Lounges, Concierge service, priority check-in with extra baggage allowance, priority boarding at the gate and be whisked through priority security clearance.

Offer ends February 28, 2010.

Sample Fares are EACH-WAY based on round-trip purchase:

Boston - Tokyo $1634
Washington - Hong Kong $1887
Los Angeles - Tokyo $1584
Los Angeles - Hong Kong $1787
New York - Hong Kong $1787
Philadelphia - Tokyo $1734
Philadelphia - Hong Kong $1887
San Francisco - Hong Kong $1886

Winter is the Best Time to Save in Santa Fe

2010-01-14T23:51:00Z

Winter is my favorite time to visit Santa Fe. The air is crisp, the traditional kiva-style fireplaces are cozy, and the city never looks lovelier than when its adobe walls are adorned with snow. All of Santa Fe’s legendary sophistication is ready to be enjoyed—music, art, a wealth of restaurants, and premier shopping. Add in the excitement of winter sports, plus great prices at some of the best hotels, and there’s no reason not to visit.

This is shaping up to be a great season at Ski Santa Fe, just 30 minutes from the downtown plaza and there is cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, sledding, and tubing on nearby mountain trails. Most hotels offer special deals at this time of year and restaurants advertise specials in the local newspaper. There is no more affordable time to explore Santa Fe.

Eldorado Hotel and Spa. The Winter Wonderland Package includes one free treatment at the elegant Nidah Spa for every room night booked. There is no limit—5 nights earn 5 pampering spa treatments. Treatments are valued at $130, which can be used as a credit toward other spa services. New winter choices include a 50-minute cranberry pumpkin facial and a 50-minute peppermint oil massage. Nightly rates begin at $199 and the offer extends through March 31, 2010. For reservations, visit www.eldoradohotel.com and reference PKGWW booking code, or call 800-955-4455 and mention Winter Wonderland.

Just Announced - Ski Flight Deals from American Airlines

2010-01-14T19:17:30Z

Pack your woolies, it’s a winter wonderland of savings with something for everyone…

Whether you want to hit the slopes or prefer to stay cozy indoors with a cup of hot cocoa, American Airlines has sale fares to great ski destinations, including:

Dallas/Ft. Worth to Montrose $129*
Austin to Vail — $149*
Boston to Crested Butte — $149*
Miami to Steamboat Springs — $149*
St. Louis to Jackson Hole — $159*

Fares listed above are each way, based on round-trip purchase.

Purchase ticket by January 22, 2010, and travel through February 24, 2010.

Learn more at AA.com

Get fit for your next adventure travel trip for 50% less

2010-01-13T16:38:12Z

Don’t you love it when your favorite people hook-up to create something new and fabulous? I do. So, I was thrilled to see that Fit for Trips has partnered with many of the adventure travel companies I travel with to offer special promotions and discounts toward their vacations.

Better yet, the combo provides an easy and accessible way to follow through with your New Year resolutions at half-off savings.

Tour operators that partner with Fit for Trips to participate in this special promotion are providing a discount or special offer for clients who book a trip in 2010 by February 19. 2010. Fit for Trips will offer 50% off fitness programs in relation to the specific trip booked. Contact any of the tour operators below and mention the promotion: Fitness Special.