November marks the start of the busy holiday season—the perfect time to schedule a relaxing spa weekend. Or perhaps you’d like to get a jump-start on your shopping by spending a weekend in New York City. And remember, for many Caribbean destinations this is “shoulder season.” Whatever type of getaway you are looking for, we have you covered, with a discount for Washingtonian readers.
Unwind at the Beach
Where: The Bellmoor Inn & Spa, 6 Christian St., Rehoboth Beach, Del.; 800-425-2355.
What’s special: Enjoy peace and relaxation by the beach at the Bellmoor Inn & Spa. The elegant lobby features Brazilian-cherry floors, inviting leather seating, quiet reading nooks with fireplaces, and a cheerful sunroom where you can enjoy a delicious buffet breakfast and afternoon refreshments. The spacious suites have marble bathrooms and luxurious bedding. You can work out at the fitness center or get pampered at the on-site spa, which offers an extensive menu of treatments. Afterward, take a short walk to the downtown shops and, if the weather permits, stroll the boardwalk and watch the ocean. The area also has many good restaurants for lunch or dinner.
The deal: Stay one weekend night in a Deluxe Room and receive two 50-minute Swedish massages plus a full American breakfast and afternoon tea for two, all for $329 plus taxes, a discount of 30 percent. You can add a second night for $99 plus taxes.
When: Valid November 5 through December 18, 2010.
Holiday Splendor in the Mountains
Where: The Homestead, 7696 Sam Snead Hwy., Hot Springs, Va.; 540-839-1966.
What’s special: Nestled in the Allegheny Mountains, this National Historic Landmark welcomed its first guest a decade before the American Revolution. Over the years, it has played host to presidents and princes. Today it offers first-rate amenities and accommodations with Southern hospitality. You can relax at the luxe spa, swim in the magnificent indoor pool, go bowling, enjoy afternoon tea, go rifle or skeet shooting with the shooting club, and, weather permitting, hike the trails, ice-skate, and ski both cross-country and downhill. Kids can get away from their parents at the Kids Club. Dining options abound, from fine to casual.
The deal: The Holiday Escape Package includes accommodations, a limited-edition glass tree ornament modeled after the Homestead’s historic tower, two passes for ice skating at the outdoor ink, and a hayride through the Homestead’s holiday light show. Washingtonian readers also receive a free upgraded room. To book your package, call 800-838-1766, select option 3, and mention the Washingtonian.com Readers Offer. Rates for the Holiday Escape Package start at $209 a night per room based on double occupancy, which is 50 percent off the items booked individually. The upgraded room is an additional $75 savings. Taxes and 15-percent daily resort charge are extra.
When: The package is valid November 22 through December 22, 2010, with blackout dates November 24 through 26.
New York for the Holidays
Where: The Strand, 33 W. 37th St., New York, N.Y.; 212-448-1024
What’s special: The Strand offers contemporary luxury in midtown Manhattan’s trendy Fashion District. The hotel’s new covered rooftop lounge, Top of the Strand—recently named best new rooftop lounge in New York magazine—was designed by Lydia Marks, who created the set designs for the Sex and the City movies. The hotel is a five-minute walk from Macy’s and its Thanksgiving Day parade as well as other holiday activities. It’s also walking distance to the Empire State Building, the theater district, restaurants, and stores.
The deal: The Thanksgiving Package includes two nights’ accommodation and a guaranteed upgrade to a deluxe room, a goody bag and Macy’s shopping coupons, a thermos of gourmet hot chocolate to enjoy as you watch the parade (you keep the thermos), a gourmet three-course Thanksgiving dinner prepared by executive chef Greg Gilbert at the new Strand Restaurant, two tickets to the International Center of Photography, daily deluxe continental breakfast, and a 2 PM checkout. Mention The Washingtonian when booking to also receive a free fresh-fruit plate. Rates for the two-night package start at $599, a 25-percent savings. Gratuity and taxes are not included.
When: Available November 24 through November 26, 2010, with special pre- and post-night options.
Sand and Surf in the Caribbean
Where: The Reef, Grand Cayman; 888-232-0541.
What’s special: The Reef may not be the Ritz, but you still get a fabulous beach and a nice room with an incredible view—all for just $99 a night. The Reef is the only resort on Grand Cayman where all the rooms are beachfront suites. Every unit has sweeping views of palm trees, the white-sand beach, and the spectacular turquoise Caribbean Sea. Located on the island’s east end, the resort is away from the crowds and a serene tropical escape. The resort features a 1,600-foot stretch of beach with two freshwater pools, beach volleyball, tennis, and a spa. Guests can snorkel right off the beach, and Grand Cayman is known for its diving. US Airways has a direct flight from Reagan National and Dulles to Grand Cayman.
The deal: Take advantage of the Reef’s fall sale. Beachfront studios are available for $99 a night. Mention The Washingtonian when booking to receive a free upgrade to a deluxe studio suite.
When: Valid through December 20, 2010.
