Most of us think of summer as vacation time, but for anyone with the hectic schedule of getting ready for back to school, or thinking ahead to everything that the holidays will bring, my favorite time of year to head out for the weekend is NOW! Everyone needs to get away now and again, especially these days when stress is at its highest. I know it’s difficult to balance grabbing the time and finding the money, especially when it’s not a PLANNED vacation here are some less expensive getaway ideas that help you to escape the hustle and bustle of life, and getaway for that much needed relaxation…ON A BUDGET.
Rach & I being goofy in Philly
Girlfriend Getaways
If you are traveling with your girlfriends, it has never been easier to get away for the weekend with your girlfriends and do so inexpensively. Just look at what Rachel and I do (and Allyson and I, and Shelley and I), LOL – yes, I do like to get away with a good friend for some R&R and a lot of laughs. Did you know that you can get an awesome group rate for you and your girlfriends just about anywhere?
I generally look off-season and in spots that aren’t the “usual” vacation areas. Also, I’ve found that recently a lot of the extras and extravagant luxuries have come down in price. Companies are eager to fill hotel rooms and as a result may offer group rates that are excellent.
For example, you can head down to my neck of the woods – Florida and stay in one of the lesser-known and least crowded areas such as St. Petersburg. The beaches are beautiful, but the cost is much less than your typical Miami or Orlando stay.
You could also rent a hotel room in Manhattan, share the cost, and partake in activities that offer group rates such as the Metropolitan Museum of Art.
The beauty of a girls’ getaway is that it resembles an old-fashioned sleepover, with a bunch of girls crammed into one room, this time sharing the expense.
Bryant Park in winter
Romantic Weekend Getaways
Variety is the spice of life, and iff you are planning a romantic weekend getaway, you are in luck. Luxury hotels in New York City that offers spa treatments have special weekend deals that are usually much higher during the week when all of the business men and women have decended on the city. You can choose to do things that are free such as a romantic picnic in the middle of Central Park or a stroll down Fifth Avenue to window shop.
New York is an EXTREMELY expensive city, so choosing not to partake in all the expensive activities in New York City is a great and innovative idea, but that means that you’ve got to get a little more creative. Take a walk through Bryant Park and check out the huge tree and the most amazing hot chocolate to indulge in after ice-skating for a bit. You’ll find nearby vendors selling goods from beautiful landscape portraits to holiday ornaments to peruse. All great souvenirs to take home.
Don’t forget to check out a quain Bed and breakfast during off-season. These are just another great way to save some money, as is traveling off-season to other destinations.
For me, getting away OFTEN for getaways is my favorite luxury, and you never know what you may encounter by traveling off-season to different locations. You may just start a new and inexpensive tradition…or like me, find yourself going away often.
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