It’s the middle of winter. It’s cold outside…but you’re feeling hot. You’d love to take off on a romantic getaway with your partner. But… You’re hot and your budget’s not. Relax!
We’ll give you an insider’s look at how to get away without breaking the bank.
Romantic Getaways: Where to go and what you’ll find
1. Adults only
Nothing says adult fun like Las Vegas.
Great food, fantastic shows, and nightlife: what’s not to love? Many casinos and hotels offer deals on their rooms, especially during the week. If you’re not familiar with The Strip, make sure you take a look at a map first. There are tons of cheap ways to get around, including Uber and the monorail. But the sky-high heels that your partner loves might not be the best for walking, so plan it out.
If you’re looking for a bit more water with your sand, CheapCaribbean.com can help.
Choose from a variety of resort destinations that let you get away from your kids or someone else’s.
2. Beach destinations
While Florida is home to Mickey Mouse, it has also beautiful beaches and other fun activities.
Islamorada is located in the Florida Keys and is actually made up of six different islands. Best known for its sport fishing, you can find cheap places to stay that reviewers describe as a great getaway or a quiet gem. On the opposite coast is beautiful Playa del Carmen, Mexico.
South of the more well-known Cabo San Lucas, you can enjoy its beaches without all of the noise.
Try snorkeling with sea turtles, or exploring to find a secluded beach to read the Kama Sutra.
3. Cruises: the ultimate all-in-one vacation
Cruises have taken a hit in recent years, but they’re still one of the cheapest vacation choices. Your food, lodging and often drinks are included in one low price. It doesn’t always have to be a tropical cruise, either.
Heading to Alaska can be a budget-friendly option If you live on the West Coast. If you’re in Southern California, going to Mexico for a few days can be especially cheap. Sometimes as low as $50 a night.
4. Island getaways
If an island is more your speed, head to Puerto Rico – no passport needed. And, it isn’t technically just one island, but an archipelago. With so many interesting things to see and do, you might have a hard time choosing.
Check out one of the few places in the world with a bioluminescent bay. Plus, the piña colada is their national drink (are we there yet?). From boutique hotels to sparkling casinos, you can find a place to stay that fits every budget.
A little further away but worth grabbing your passport for is Jamaica.
Ocho Rios is located a couple of hours from its more well-known and expensive cousin, Montego Bay. You’ll find the same white sand beaches at a much more affordable price.
5. Mountain getaways
No matter where you are in the country, there are usually mountains within a short trip from home.
If you’re a skier (or just like sipping hot cocoa by the fire in the lodge), there are plenty of destinations that offer deals, too.
Ski Free Stay Free is a great option from the folks in Jackson Hole, Wyoming. How much cheaper can you get than free?!
If you’re in the Northeast, check out the outdoor adventure fun from the Appalachian Mountain Club. These adult-only packages do require clothing for activities like snowshoeing. But what happens afterward in the lodge, stays in the lodge.
How to book the best deal
Everyone’s idea of romantic is different. Beach, mountains, island, anywhere without kids. Or maybe it’s a room that has bookshelves lined with Dr. Ruth’s picks, aptly named the Love Room.
But no matter where you want to go, how you book it matters. Depending on how much time and money you have, there’s a solution that will fit the most frugal budget.
Once you’ve found your perfect destination, here are the ways to find the best deals.
Share it
AirBnB has a huge range of options, from a room in someone’s home to renting the entire house. They also have destinations all over the globe.
If you’ve not used their site before, there’s a short registration process to verify your identity.
After all, you’ll be renting directly from another person, not a hotel chain.
Using the filters to find exactly what you’re looking for, there’s a spot for every preference.
Book it last minute
Budget sites like Hotels.com and Priceline.com offer rooms at various guest ratings and prices. If you are feeling extra adventurous you can choose the star rating and area, but not the specific hotel. That way, you’ll get a bigger discount by letting the site choose their best deal.
If you’re booking last minute (as in, you can go tonight), Hotwire.com offers some screaming deals. Save your money on the hotel and make your partner scream instead.
Deals and steals
If you’re looking for an all-inclusive package, there are several cheap options. Groupon Getaways offers vacation packages that you can choose by location. They also feature romantic getaways, some less than $99 a night.
If you’re a Costco member, it’s not just a good place to stock up on wine and chocolate. They also have great package deals for lots of destinations.
Timing is everything
When you book is almost as important as where you book. Many destinations offer mid-week or off-peak deals. If you’re flexible (ahem) make sure to look for date option filters. Those usually check 3+ days around your target date and you can see all the pricing choices.
You can get in just as much trouble in the Erotic Suite at The Palms on a Tuesday as you can any other day!
The final chapter
You’re all set! You’ve found the perfect romantic getaway. When you pack your bags, don’t forget to throw in your favorite book. Looking for a new book to read on your adventure?
Our reviews can definitely get you started in more ways than one.
