Yahoo Finance 9 End-of-Summer Travel Deals to Book Now
Learn where to plan an affordable late-summer vacation.
Experienced globetrotters understand that traveling at the end of the summer has many advantages. Crowds have usually thinned and bargains abound. And for travelers yearning to plan a last-minute weekend escape, hotels and resorts are offering an array of special discounted packages. So, if you want to slash costs on a spur-of-the-moment summer getaway, look no further than these enticing, wallet-friendly vacation destinations, where it's easy to find a deal.
Costa Rica
In Costa Rica, you can help preserve the environment through the Los Suenos Marriott Ocean & Golf Resort's Reforest the Rainforest initiative. Located on a 1,100-acre tropical rainforest, resort guests can immerse themselves in the regional culture by learning Spanish with a language instructor. Plus, you can taste local flavors with cooking classes, and you can even master the traditional art of cigar rolling before indulging in Costa Rican and global dishes at La Vista Restaurant. Nightly rates for a last-minute weekend package from Aug. 12-14 start at $174.
Aruba
Boasting 15 acres of white sand oasis, the Hilton Aruba Caribbean Resort & Casino occupies an expansive strip of real estate on the iconic Palm Beach strip. Guests have an unparalleled vantage point when enjoying activities such as paddleboarding, biking, tennis and aqua aerobics. Try your luck at the resort's casino with a variety of table games, including blackjack, roulette, craps and Caribbean Stud Poker. Visit the capital city of Oranjestad for an afternoon of shopping, and explore the downtown area via the free eco-friendly trams. Nightly rates start at around $239 from Aug. 26-28.
Dubai
Inspired by the imperial palaces of the Ottoman Empire, Dubai's Jumeirah Zabeel Saray is a five-star hotel located on the elusive west crescent of the Palm Jumeirah. This summer, the resort celebrates its fifth anniversary and is inviting travelers to enjoy five nights at a bargain-friendly rate. Until Sept. 30, you can book a deluxe king room with sea views at a special discounted rate with the promo code ANNIVERSARYP. With your stay, you can also enjoy unlimited access to Wild Wadi Waterpark along with access to a stretch of pristine private beach. Nightly rates start at around $232 from Aug. 26-28 with the anniversary promo code.
San Felipe, Baja California, Mexico
Known as the gateway to the Sea of Cortez, San Felipe lies just 118 miles south of the U.S. border. An outdoor paradise filled with warm waters and beautiful landscapes, San Felipe features a wide expanse of flat sand that is ideal for walking, shelling and rounds of golf. Because summer is considered low season (high season takes place throughout spring), the San Felipe Marina Resort & Spa is offering a variety of packages. The Sunday through Thursday promotion for two adults (for $90 per night), for example, includes one continental breakfast for two, a 10 percent restaurant discount and one welcome margarita per person.
Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands
For a sunny beach retreat that won't hurt your wallet, look no further than Grand Cayman. At The Westin Grand Cayman Seven Mile Beach Resort & Spa, you can save 40 percent on the second night of your stay from July 31 to Oct. 31. The picturesque resort is nestled amid tropical palm trees along the island's famous Seven Mile Beach. Spend the day soaking up the sun beachside or venture out on the water for water skiing, sailing or other sports. And for a little extra pampering, rejuvenate at Hibiscus Spa or spring for a meal at the Beach House, an award-winning restaurant that serves mouthwatering dishes like sea scallops Benedict.
Houston
With plenty of free outdoor attractions to explore, Houston offers lots of reasons to plan a summer getaway. And at the Hotel Granduca, Houston, you can pick from a variety of enticing packages. From August to September, the hotel is offering the Ultimate Experience package, which includes a free suite upgrade (based on availability) and extra amenities and perks, such as Italian coffee or tea delivered to your room, plus a daily $15 credit in the hotel restaurant or bar. And when you're not checking out Houston's sights, you can unwind at the hotel's tranquil veranda for an afternoon tea or evening cocktail, or you can enjoy some laps in the cabana-lined swimming pool. Nightly rates start at $199.
Budapest, Hungary
This summer, guests staying at Aria Hotel Budapest will experience the local Hungarian culture and flavor through the A Taste of Aria package. Refresh your taste buds with this two-night package that pampers travelers with discounted rates and craft cocktails -- think: the Budapest Mule and Barbados Rum Zing -- at High Note SkyBar, Aria's rooftop bar that affords panoramic city views. At the hotel, you can also take advantage of the rooftop garden, the pool and fitness center, the spa and complimentary wine and cheese each afternoon. The package is available for travel through Aug. 31, with nightly rates starting at $248.
Duck, North Carolina
The Outer Banks will be buzzing with activity later this summer thanks to Sanderling Resort's Take 5! promotion, which offers guests the opportunity to enjoy a complimentary fifth night for each four-night stay. Aside from its two pools, recently renovated rooms and expanded restaurant space, the hotel also offers a wealth of recreational activities, including kayak tours, paddleboarding classes, surf lessons, sailing cruises, water skiing and tubing. Plus, the property boasts its own idyllic beach. With the resort's seasonal promotion from Aug. 19-21, nightly rates start at $419 and include the fifth night free.
Manalapan, Florida
Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa is currently offering a Stay Two, Third Night Free guest room package through Nov. 20 for ocean-facing category rooms and suites. Situated on a private beach on seven acres of oceanfront with lush tropical gardens, guests are welcomed with Champagne, resplendent ocean views and cooling tropical breezes. During their stay, couples can also indulge in a rejuvenating massage in a serene private garden villa, which comes appointed with an outdoor shower, bathtub and lounge area. Nightly rates start at $199 for Florida residents and $379 per night for non-Florida residents from Aug. 26-28.
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