Even if you've just returned from a Christmas vacation (lucky you!), winter's cold temperatures take a toll on us all -- and what else would we do but recommend taking a quick, refreshing break? Right now, there are some great deals -- but only if you know where to look. We checked out our favorite summer spots for nothing short of a fabulous (if frigid) winter break.
Nantucket Where to Stay: The Vanessa Noel Hotel
Why Now: Unlike its other cottage-y counterparts, the Vanessa Noel has minimalist chic room decor that reminds us more of the Delano in South Beach. This spot is no-kids-allowed, so if you’re looking to tote your entire fam, you’ll have to find an alternate resort. Great for couples, though, there’s also the hip, delicious Cafe V and a killer shoe store attached to satisfy any fashionista’s shopping needs.
The Hamptons
Where to Stay: The East Hampton Art House Bed & Breakfast
Why Now: Although the Hamptons is usually synonymous with summer vacation, a quick drive out on I-495 East will take you to the sexy villa-style accommodations at the Art House B&B. Although you’ll have to bundle up to hit the beach just steps away, you’ll also find a plethora of top-notch shopping and dining nearby. You can get your sweat on at their sleek indoor fitness center, so then you won’t feel as bad about chowing down on the boutique hotel’s gourmet breakfast and round-the-clock refreshments. And there’s some great antiquing in the area, too.
Cape Cod
Where to Stay: Captain’s House Inn
Why Now: Captain’s House Inn retains all the charm of a New England B&B, but with enough extras to entice guests year-round. Every room has a soaking tub and fireplace, and tons of free yummies to boot. Expect gourmet breakfast, afternoon tea and varying sweet snacks throughout the day. Curl up with a good book and a glass of complimentary sherry or port at the hotel’s library for a relaxing afternoon. After all those sweet extras and some quality down time, you’ll be thinking, “What beach?’
San Juan Islands
Where to Stay: Friday Harbor House
Why Now: The Pacific coast’s milder winters allow lucky residents to escape to places like the San Juan Islands for a quick getaway — and us East Coasters are jealous, having already seen plenty of below freezing temperatures. The Friday Harbor House, just two blocks from the ferry terminal, has all the cozy trimmings you’d want in the dead of winter: 1. A fireplace and 2. Jacuzzi — for two. (So romantic!) The views from most rooms are to-die-for, so make sure to pack your camera — and your wallet, cause the picturesque scenery is gonna cost you — too.
Martha’s Vineyard
Where to Stay: Hob Knob
Why Now: With its central location on Main Street, the Hob Knob is hard to beat proximity-wise during the winter — only during peak season would one perhaps find the noise from the street offensive. Unlike other resorts on the island, this one doesn’t offer an outdoor pool or jacuzzi, a relatively minor issue as temperatures having been dipping below freezing. Spend a day working up a sweat in the top-notch fitness center, rejuvenating at the spa, checking in with the office at the sleek business center and then resting easy courtesy of the hotel’s white noise machines. (If you haven’t tried using one, you’re missing out.)
Jersey Shore (Atlantic City)
Where to Stay: The Tropicana Resort and Casino
Why Now: With room rates starting at under $100 per night right now, it’s easy to see why the Trop trumps, well, the other Trump hotels. Located centrally on AC’s famed boardwalk, the Tropicana boasts an outpost of the Philly original Bluemercury spa (Ed note: Having lived in Philadelphia for four years, I have to vouch for how awesome Bluemercury is.) as well as a Havana-inspired shopping and dining area known as “the Quarter.” Gamble at the giant casino and take in a flick at the IMAX theater before calling it a trip.
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