Using Your Imagination

Who says that a last minute vacation must involve air travel? Or a hotel stay? You make the rules—or no rules. Brainstorm about some economical and unique options. Have a relative with a cabin in New England? They would probably love to offer the place for your enjoyment. Contribute to the non-perishables supply and paper goods or leave a nice bottle of wine behind you when you leave. This will assure that in the future you’ll be welcomed back. Or gather a few friends together and plan an impromptu trip to a beachfront rental condo during the cooler months. Not only are many places available during the off-season, but with a few participants, the cost is economical. Make sure that your beach location is temperate enough to support a winter clientele. Many New England shore spots are only open seasonally.

How about regional wineries? Wine-making is no longer the exclusive right of Californians. Many reputable regional wineries are growing increasingly popular. With a bit of research you might be able to plan a nice tasting tour through your own region’s vineyards. New England, the Southeast, Midwest, and even Arizona and the Southwest all boast lists of up-and-coming wineries. Perhaps pair your homemade wine tour with stays at some intriguing bed and breakfasts.

Increasingly trendy, but still offbeat, are spa getaways. Desert Hot Springs, California is a popular hot springs destination with a plenitude of hotels and spas promising hot springs and healing waters. Not only is Mexico a convenient destination for colorful history and beaches but, more and more, for its spas. Ask your travel agent for information on current spa venues and last-minute options.

Have a major city within driving distance? Explore the upscale hotel accommodations by visiting Priceline, and bidding for a few nights’ stay. You will most likely find one willing to accept your price. Then explore the nightlife—bars and restaurants. Staying means you really get all the flavors of the city’s personality, and you don’t have to drive home. Relax, catch a theater show or a sporting event. Online bulletinboards and local sites offer up user reviews of local restaurants. Visit “City Search”, for “The Best of…” reviews covering the city of your choice.

These are just a few options. Sit down, relax and plan your own last minute getaway. The only limit is your imagination.