4 Surprisingly Affordable End-of-Year Escapes
The year is almost over. Have you used all your vacation days? Every year, millions of Americans leave vacation days on the table. If you’re in line to be one of them, here’s the good news: while the upcoming holiday season can be one of the more expensive times to travel, there are still some great destinations that are surprisingly affordable in December. So, put in your paid-time-off request and enjoy one of these end-of-year escapes that will leave you with cash in your pocket for the holidays.
Savings on the slopes in Colorado
Early ski season is one of the best times to hit the slopes. Not only will you find less crowds at the lifts, it’s one of the few times during the season with deals on lodging and promotions that will save you some serious cash. And with many Colorado ski resorts areas already shattering early-season snowfall records, now is the time to gear up and head West. Copper Mountain is one of my favorites for its easy access directly off Interstate 70 and reliable early-season conditions with the mountain’s base sitting at 9,700 ft. And until December 18, they are pouring on the promotions, from 3rd night free on lodging, 3rd day free rentals, and 3rd day free for youth group lessons. Not to mention, kids ages twelve and under ski for free and great discounts on tubing and cruising the mountain coaster. Even better: plan your trip mid-week, while Denver locals are still at work and hotel occupancy is at its lowest.
Warm days, cool nights in Scottsdale, AZ
This is the time of year to discover what Booking.com says will be one of the biggest trends in 2020: “the all-amusive escape”, as travelers seek out destinations that offer an array of experiences in close proximity to one another, minimizing travel time and logistics. Scottsdale is perfect for this type of trip with more than 70 hotels, 50 spas, 100 galleries and 800 dining options. And my favorite part: Scottsdale is in the heart of so many great outdoor activities. The area is home to stunning landscapes with easy access to hiking, paddling and biking. And with temps averaging near 70 degrees in December, it’s one of the best times of year for outdoor exploration here. Yet, there’s an even bigger reason to go now – December is Scottdale’s “secret season” with hotel rates 33 percent lower than during the peak winter season with plenty of availability at stunning boutique hotels and resorts. And it’s not just the hotels where you’ll find savings. Visit HolidaysInScottsdale.com for holiday season offers like BOGO horseback riding and discounts for local attractions.
Cruise the Caribbean or Europe
Now is the time to hit your favorite Caribbean islands on a cruise before the winter travel season hits its peak and big ships are priced at a premium. The few weeks between Thanksgiving and Christmas mark a slow period for Caribbean cruises and will net you the best prices on cruises during the winter months, with many 7-night options under $500. That’s less than $75/night!
Plus, November through mid-December is shoulder season for many cruise port destinations, meaning you’ll have more breathing room and few lines onboard and off the ship on shore excursions. And if you’ve always dreamed of a European river cruise, this is the time of year to take advantage of fantastic off-season promotions. You may have to bundle up, but you’ll stop in some of Europe’s most charming small towns with festive Christkindle markets and plenty of old-world holiday traditions and ambiance.
Savor the simple life in Galena, IL
There’s a new trend that is predicted to change the way travelers approach getaways. The idea that “Slow-Mo is the new FOMO” suggests travelers are looking to slow down, enjoy the journey and worry less about fitting it all in. And in the midst of the hurried holidays, a leisurely, scenic drive to enjoy small town life may be just the way to finish off those last few vacation days. In the Midwest, on the beautiful bluffs on Western Illinois just three hours northwest of Chicago is charming Galena. This Midwest gem is the perfect winter weekend escape for taking it slow, from holiday shopping among its 100 storefronts along one of “America’s Best Main Streets” to afternoons spent on the slopes of Chestnut Mountain skiing or snowboarding. Warm up with a tour of Blaum Bros Distilling Co. and explore the art of distilling and hit the town for dinner where you’ll find cozy tables nestled throughout this quaint village. And with off-season hotel prices and plenty of local holiday festivities, it’s easy to get into the spirit of the season.