Now is a good time to start thinking about where to go for your winter holiday. While it may be fall weather, fluctuating between warm and sweater-weather, soon enough we will be bundling up and shoveling snow to make our way out in the morning.
So where should travelers from the New York City area plan a trip to get away that isn’t a long plane ride away? There are a few destinations and boutique hotels we recommend, and suggest you check out off peak times, other than Christmas and February break, because prices tend to be higher than usual then. You can get great deals before December 15th and after March 1, but you can find deals for quick getaways.
Here are a few of our recommendations:
Sublime Samana, www.sublimesamana.com
Jet Blue offers a direct flight from JFK to Samana, which is only a half-hour away from this slice of heaven. When asked by a journalist if it was private, my answer was, “It doesn’t get better.” There’s plenty of space to spread out, with a pool the length of a football field, and a wide expanse of beach, leading to crystal blue water that’s always the perfect temperature.
Casa Bonita Tropical Lodge, www.casabonitadr.com
On the other end of the Dominican Republic is this eco-chic lodge, which feels like a home, because it was one originally. There’s an open air sitting area with comfy couch to sink into, and enjoy their wonderful Margaritas and plantains with guacamole straight from their surroundings. Much of what is served at Casa Bonita is straight from their organic market. And for hikers, there are trails in the surrounding Baharona Mountains, and mountain bikes available on the property.
Esencia, www.hotelesencia.com
The Estate of the former Heiress to the Ferrari Fortune is the hideaway you would expect. And the staff treats you like a friend of the family, whether its your first visit or fifth. Recent renovations bring some wonderful upgrades to the property. But the beachfront secluded and far from the maddening crowd of resorts down the beach, is glorious. Cuddle up in a palapa, and the waiters will bring ceviche the likes of which you’ve never had.
If you are looking for special getaways, check out the websites of these properties, and book your flight ahead of time to get the best rate. Plan ahead – the rooms go fast at these luxury boutique properties – as our agency specializes in boutique PR agency specializes in travel, we can tell you its not always best to wait till the deals pop up on flash sale sites.