by Adele Woodyard
Have a Happy Thanksgiving? Looking forward to a Merry Christmas? This is the time of year when we eat, drink and talk too much with family and friends; make Xmas card lists of our once-a-year contacts, and fret over what to get for Aunt Susie, who won’t like it anyway, and Uncle Fred who has everything but a sense of humor. Yet whatever the aggravation, we’ll never turn our backs, for these are days when love is to be both given and received. And it needn’t cost a cent.
Like any parable, it has another side and that’s where the “Specials” come in. If you skipped Black Friday and haven’t even started making a list, you’re one who will really need the break once the holidays are over. Here’s a few of the packages Florida has to offer weary after-partiers when tree, presents and people have left you with the clean-up.
North Florida
If you really want to get away from it all, spend an overnight in the lodge at Wakulla Springs State Park near Tallahassee. This historic building © 1937 tucked among the pines, has a high, beamed ceiling and stone fireplace in the lobby. There’s a restaurant, and a standard room rate package of $99 (plus taxes and tips) now until February 23, 2011 Package includes dinner for two and two tickets for boat tour where wild birds and other marine life are almost close enough to touch. Reservation and pay in advance. 850-224-5950.
Big Bend
Steinhatchee Landing Resort has rental cottages where nightly rates can be as low as $70 (plus taxes, tips) depending on booking dates and cottage types. Good now until January 30, 2011, if you stay four or more consecutive night. (see 6/22/10 Blog, Scallops Anyone? for more info on site). 800-584-1709; 352-498-3513.
Southeast Florida
Jupiter Beach Resort and Spa offers a Winter Escape package with a 20% discount on Best Available Rates that start at $183 (plus). You can bask on their 1,000 feet of secluded coastline now through February 17, 2011. Package includes $25 daily resort credit at on-site dining spots, spa, and new Little Loggerheads Kids Club. Also breakfast for two each morning. 800-228-8810, promo code WINTER. http://tinyurl.com/36jtyjg”
There are countless hotels and resorts throughout the Sunshine State that offer various money-saving packages. For instance, in Daytona Beach, http://bookit.com lists ones that range for $33 to $95/per night. Example: The 4-Diamond Shores Resort and Spa package starts at $72/night, book three nights and get third one FREE, until January 15, 2011
J.W. Marriott Renaissance and Marriott Resort hotels are currently pushing a package that gives $100 resort credit with a minimum two night stay, for golf, spa, dining and more, through January 31, 2011. Another $50 is given for each additional night at resort accommodations; rates ranges from $289-$519/night, not including taxes, etc Reservations required: Promo code ZXO. http://marriott.com/hotels/hotel
Need a rest after all the holiday hoopla? May you enjoy your stay whether in a fancy resort or inexpensive motel.
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