Itching to get away to one of your favorite tropical destinations in the next week or so? Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort is offering guests a 30 percent discount if they book through October 24, so obviously the clock is ticking. But the good news is that when your brain and body agree that Hawaii is the solution to all your problems, you don’t have to worry about a passport or packing too much more than a few swimsuits, some sunscreen, and that casual resort outfit that has been collecting dust since your last vacation.

Even better, book right now and you don’t need to run out the door to get to the airport, as the deal is for stays between Nov. 1, 2023, and Oct. 31, 2024. So, you have time to get some extra work done, find a dog sitter, or fight those few pounds you’ve been promising to shed since January.

If you can’t book right now, don’t fret. Instead, start looking ahead to next summer’s big getaway with the “Book Early and Save” special that also saves guests as much as 30 percent. Guests who lock down a minimum of three nights before Dec. 31, 2023, will have a little extra spending cash for stays between June 1 and July 31, 2024. There are also offers available for visits of four nights or longer, as well as the Mālama Hawai‘i Experience that includes a free fifth night and a thrilling guided tour, rich on local culture.

Arguably the best way for first-timers to enjoy this legendary destination, Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort is home to the Rainbow and Ali‘I Towers, which boast jaw-dropping views of the Pacific Ocean and that famous beach, and booking rooms in either undoubtedly means loading up on photos so stunning they’ll make any Instagram follower envious. Families will especially enjoy the newly renovated Tapa Collection rooms, with more space and better sleeping arrangements for the whole crew.

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The Deal:  Whether you escape now or book a getaway for a later date, SunBreeze Suites One Week in Belize Package offer a formula for relaxation , adventure and romance. Enjoy  beachfront accommodations in a ocean view suite , with in-country transport and tours in a complete 7 Night package all under US$3000 per couple.

Book Direct at sunbreezesuites.com/one-week-in-belize

The Dates: Offer good through 03/31/2024 on direct bookings at One Week In Belize – Sunbreeze Suites

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As summer approaches, parents across the U.S. are undoubtedly booking camp sessions, locking down music lessons, and staring at their big, empty calendars with the hopes that some other time-consuming events will magically appear. At the same time, they are also presumably choosing destinations and resorts for that one big family getaway, and that process usually provides far more stress than most humans can even burn off while relaxing poolside.

It doesn’t take a rocket scientist to realize that all this planning and scheduling will have parents also dreaming of a vacation from their vacations, and the Sandals Institute of Romance estimates that a whopping 80 percent of partners say this year is busier than ever, so they’d love a little time away from the kids… before traveling with them. Of course, the biggest obstacle is finding time, so the all-inclusive resort brand is lighting a fire under hesitant travelers with a special deal.

The Deal: Couples that book three nights will receive a fourth night free, which means the grandparents and sitters will be a little busier. Participating properties include Sandals Emerald Bay (Bahamas), Sandals Royal Bahamian, Sandals Barbados, Sandals South Coast (Jamaica), Sandals Royal Caribbean (Jamaica), Sandals Grande Antigua, Sandals Grande St. Lucian, Sandals Montego Bay, Sandals Ochi (Jamaica), Sandals Grenada, and Sandals Negril.

The Dates: Book now through May 31, 2023, for travel between May 1 and June 15, 2023.

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The beauty of the adults-only Spring Break concept is that it can take place whenever we want. It doesn’t rely on a school calendar, instead only when we feel like, “You know what? Let’s go on vacation.” And the whole Spring Break aspect of it can apply to any time of year, because that’s the fun of being an adult, right? It’s like eating ice cream for dinner or buying a cake from the grocery store just because. But spring is upon us and it’s time for a break, so why not be traditional? 

Now, it’s just a matter of where, and why not Maui? Hawaii isn’t the most ideal spot for a “quick” getaway, but when the bargain is right, there’s no reason not to say, “Aloha!” The Plantation Inn is proving this point by providing couples with a little extra incentive to come visit between April and June. And that’s on top of the many other reasons like exceptional comfort, modern amenities, and being a very affordable gateway to paradise.

The Deal: Guests who book stays of at least two nights will enjoy a 10 percent discount on rates. That’s extra money for travelers who like to do a lot of shopping on their vacations, and this popular bed and breakfast property is a quick jaunt from Front Street and a wide variety of stores and very fun restaurants.
The Time: The offer is valid on stays between April 1 and June 31, 2023. Outside of that window, The Plantation Inn offers the same deal on visits of seven nights or longer, too.

The post An Intimate Adults-Only Spring Break Experience Awaits at Maui’s Plantation Inn appeared first on Islands.

Is Rhode Island for lovers? You bet your matching Burberry scarves it is. And we’re not just talking about the rich history, back-in-time charm of the cities, gorgeous landscapes, and beautiful beaches. This state has exceptional hotels that could teach the rest of the world a thing or two about luxury and creative amenities, as well as restaurants run by chefs who should have their own Food Network series.

Look no further than Ocean House, located in beautiful Watch Hill. This special property is currently offering the Sea the Love experience, which is so spectacularly over the top, it will have couples feeling like they’re the stars of their own Hallmark movies. 

It begins with a stay in the four-level Tower Suite, which sits atop the Ocean House as if it is a castle overlooking a kingdom. In that case, how else should royalty arrive and depart than by a private helicopter transport? But this deal is so unbelievably amazing that each element deserves its own jaw-dropping moment:

• A Tiffany Elsa Peretti “Wave” five row ring, with an aquamarine stone.
• A private photo session on the beach or another Ocean House location of choice.
• A couple’s massage and pedicures in the 5-star Ocean and Harvest Spa.
• A romantic walk on the beach, with a private bonfire, bottle of champagne, and cashmere blanket to take home.
• Dinner for two in the five-star, five-diamond COAST restaurant with grand wine pairings.
• Breakfast in bed for two with Veuve Clicquot mimosas.
• Lunch for two in the Bistro, with ocean views.
• A set of two monogrammed Matouk Linens pillowcases to take home.

Not too shabby, right? Oh, and there is one other thing included: A 2023 Nautical Blue Mercedes Benz EQS 450 4Matic. I know what you’re thinking: “Oh cool, that’s for driving around town.” That’s partially correct. Couples will be able to explore in this very cool electric sedan. But they also get to take it home.
That obviously explains the price of the experience, but even the rest of it seems to be worth every penny. And the bragging rights alone will be priceless.

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For family fun or adults-only romance, few resorts do it all on Maui quite like Westin Maui Resort and Spa, Kā‘anapali. In fact, there’s so much to do on-property and within walking distance that it’s totally understandable if a family doesn’t take a day or two to explore the rest of the island. After all, when there’s a snow cone truck by the pool, good luck getting the kids to want to be anywhere else. Same goes for parents and the Lānai lounge, where the talented bar staff is constantly creating new cocktails.

Now, though, guests have no reason to not explore. The Westin Maui Adventure Package is a new offering that is the result of a collaboration with Hawaii-based Shaka Guide, a tour company and storytelling app.

The Deal: Visitors can book a room in the Ocean Tower with a 10 percent discount and receive a $60 daily resort credit, but the fun begins with Shaka Guide’s six self-guided tours. Everything from the beautiful parks to the best shopping can be “discovered” through this curated program, all while the app’s audio tours make it seem like the island’s best guide is riding shotgun. 

The Dates: Booking for the Adventure Package is already underway for stays through March 29, 2023.

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Two of the biggest “days” of the year for avid travelers are, of course, Black Friday and Cyber Monday. As we all know, these events actually last much longer, in some cases through the end of the year, and we aren’t complaining. This is, after all, when we score the best deals from wonderful resorts and hotels all across the Caribbean. But it turns out there’s a third day that is also bringing us exceptional savings.

According to Internet legend, there are people who believe that “Blue Monday” is the “most depressing day of the year.” Falling on the third Monday of January, this year’s saddest event occurred on January 16, so if you felt a little more like Debbie Downer that day, well, you have your excuse. However, like most things that your aunt sends you from random websites, Blue Monday isn’t real and was developed as a marketing stunt for a British travel company in 2005.

What a bummer.

Fake or not, it doesn’t change the fact that a lot of people could use a change of scenery to help shed negative vibes. If you are feeling a little more down in the dumps as you battle seasonal affective disorder or realize you have another batch of resolutions that’ll never be upheld, Sandals Resorts has a great way to cheer everyone up: more discounts!

Booking is already underway and runs through February 28 for stays through certain dates in April and May, depending on the resort. In all, 11 Sandals properties are offering special rates starting at $249 per person, with stays of 5 or 6 nights receiving a $150 resort credit and stays of 7 nights or longer (always our recommendation) earning a $250 credit. And for families that want to beat the cold as a crew, Beaches Ocho Rios rates start at $325 per adult per night, with the same credits available.

Starting to feel that positive energy? Good. Here are the rest of the resorts participating and their travel windows:

• Sandals Barbados: January 30, 2023 – April 25, 2023 (Blackout Dates: February 26, 2023 – March 2, 2023)
• Sandals Royal Barbados: January 27, 2023 – April 24, 2023
• Sandals Emerald Bay: January 4, 2023 – May 5, 2023 (Blackout Dates: January 5, 2023 – January 7, 2023)
• Sandals Royal Caribbean: January 4, 2023 – April 30, 2023
• Sandals Ochi: January 4, 2023 – May 3, 2023 (Blackout Dates: January 12, 2023 – January 13, 2023)
• Sandals Grande Antigua: March 25, 2023 – April 21, 2023
• Sandals Grenada: February 10, 2023 – April 30, 2023
• Sandals Regency La Toc: February 13, 2023 – April 30, 2023 (Blackout Dates: February 21, 2023 – February 25, 2023; April 20, 2023 – April 21, 2023)
• Sandals Royal Bahamian: March 5, 2023 – April 11, 2023 (Blackout Dates: March 22, 2023 – March 25, 2023)
• Sandals Halcyon: April 7, 2023 – April 30, 2023
• Sandals South Coast: February 11, 2023 – May 3, 2023 (Blackout Dates: April 10, 2023 – April 15, 2023)
• Beaches Ocho Rios: January 4, 2023 – May 24, 2023 (Blackout Dates: February 18, 2023 – February 23, 2023; March 11, 2023 – March 17, 2023; March 25, 2023 – April 13, 2023)

Guests need to use the code WINTER22 when booking and registration must be completed with 72 hours.

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One of my favorite things to chat about with other travel writers I meet in this destination or the next is the best food and cocktails that we’ve enjoyed on our journeys. Most of the time, people love to tell me about their favorite margaritas, because that’s just my thing. But if golf is involved, we talk a lot about whiskey drinks because I’m also on a never-ending quest to find the best Old Fashioned recipes on the planet. Very rarely do I hear about a place that has “the best” of both, but one friend insisted that I find my way to the Shelter Harbor Inn as soon as possible.

Located in Westerly, Rhode Island, this 22-room property is well-known for its charm and access to the best of this classic American destination. However, my fellow writer felt that the spotlight should shine directly on The Farmhouse Kitchen and Bar, where, he insists, any guests would likely rave about the Just What the Dr. Ordered bourbon cocktail and the Sparking South County Margarita. As I typically do, I made note of it in my travel wishlist for future adventures—especially with the Winnapaug Country Club nearby—and then wondered when I might ever get to Rhode Island.

The answer for anyone who has ever wanted to visit the Ocean State is January 2023. Formerly known as Hotel Week Rhode Island, the New Year will now begin with the expanded Rhode Island Hotel Month. Travelers looking for a subtle, scenic, and serene getaway can take advantage of rates discounts from as many as 21 hotels and resorts. Included in this offering are: 

• Avonlea Jewel of the Sea
• The Waverly III at Block Island Cottages & Suites
• Admiral Fitzroy Inn
• America’s Cup Inn
• Howard Johnson by Wyndham
• The Hilltop Inn
• Hampton Inn & Suites by Hilton, Providence Downtown
• Hotel Providence
• A Shore Thing at Charlestown Beach
• Shelter Harbor Inn
• The Break Hotel
• TownePlace Suites by Marriott, North Kingstown
• Weekapaug Inn
• Courtyard Providence/Warwick
• Hampton Inn – Coventry
• NYLO Providence Warwick Hotel, Tapestry Collection by Hilton
• Sonesta Hotel Warwick
• With more than 400 miles of coastline, Rhode Island is an explorer’s dream, but even if this time of year makes travelers want to curl up in a ball by a nice fire, this is a great opportunity for that as well. Perhaps more than anyone, foodies should be lining up to enjoy these offers, because the culinary creativity and delicious dishes are available far beyond the aforementioned inn.

The deals kicked off for Black Friday and will run through January 31.

The post Rhode Island’s Hotel Month is All the Reason for a January Visit appeared first on Islands.

There’s a very good reason that the Sentry Tournament of Champions is such a popular event among PGA players—just look at the course. Or to be far more accurate, look at the course and everything around it as far as the eye can see. Kapalua is just one of those places where golfers will have to accept a slower pace of play, because everyone needs extra time to appreciate the views on every hole of the Bay and Plantation Courses, and truly absorb the overall majesty.

And, obviously, take a ton of photos and video.

That’s not to say that this Maui resort area is only for golfers. You don’t have to play to enjoy the rolling green hills and stunning blue water, and some guests would be just as happy walking the trail all morning before lounging at one of the new pool cabanas at The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua. But for those travelers who want a little bit of everything, the first PGA event of 2023 provides one of the best golf and resort experiences of the entire year.

The Deal: The name says it all—The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua Ultimate Bucket List Tournament of Champions Skybox Package. Guests who book this experience will enjoy the choice of Deluxe, Deluxe Ocean View, Club Ocean View, or Residential Garden View Suite accommodations, as well as club access to the new, awesome Ritz-Carlton Club Lounge and a $200 spa credit. As for the PGA event, they’ll receive two seats in the VIP Skybox, with food, drinks, and transportation to and from the Ritz all included.

The Time: This deal is valid January 4-9, 2023.

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Planning a Hawaiian getaway is a complicated ordeal, especially with airfare prices being higher than a SR-71 right now. And as much as everyone could use an escape right now, as the cold weather sets in and the evenings begin an hour earlier, it’s simply quite difficult to come up with an elaborate itinerary that not only pleases the whole crew, but also doesn’t require maxing out multiple credit cards. That’s why we should all say, “Mahalo” to Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort for making it a little easier.

There’s no wonder why this property’s annual Cyber Sale is so popular—discounts of up to 50 percent make us happier than the first time we hear Mariah Carey’s “All I Want for Christmas is You” (the 100^th time is a different story). Also delivering big smiles will be the five swimming pools, saltwater lagoon, and great variety of dining options, including the must-see Waikiki Starlight Luau. 

The Deal: Beginning today, travelers can lock down great prices on suites in the The Ali’I and Rainbow Towers, both of which offering awesome views of the Pacific Ocean. Guests who want to be closer to amenities will likely prefer one of the Tapa Tower’s junior suites. 

The Time: The deal is good for two weeks, ending on November 30, 2022. However, don’t think that means you need to throw the kitchen sink into a suitcase and rush to the airport. It is valid for stays between January 5 and June 15, 2023, as well as from August 10 until November 8.

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