Originally published Monday, October 27, 2008 at 12:00 AM
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Finding travel deals, from gas cards to hotel and cruise discounts
Travel suppliers offering discounts as economic turmoil slows vacation and business trips
McClatchy Newspapers
If you ever needed a stress break, now's the time. But given the economic turmoil, you may not be in the mood for spending.
There's no need to drop big bucks. Hotels and travel suppliers are feeling the pinch, too, and luring travelers with discounts on cruises, hotels and travel packages good through the fall — and in some cases, even during the holidays. Some include resort credits that can make an upscale hotel stay a relative bargain; others offer a fourth or fifth night free. Some of the best take you far away — but include airfare.
Here's a sampling. In all cases prices are subject to availability and may change; some blackout dates may apply. Don't see what you're looking for? Scour the Web, watch for sales (even the hard-pressed airlines are cutting some fares) and call travel suppliers directly. They should be happy to hear from you.
Free gas from choice hotels
Stay at three Choice hotels (including Comfort Inn, Sleep Inn, Quality) through Nov. 30 and get a $50 gas card. To qualify, you have to join the free Choice rewards program. www.choicehotels.com
Tampa, Florida
At the Intercontinental, get a third night for $1 when you pay for two previous nights at the prevailing rate, which starts at $139. Good through Dec. 29 (rate code IPAHD). www.intercontampa.com. Club Med
Through Dec. 22, the all-inclusive Club Med Sandpiper at Port St. Lucie offers a three-night package for a family of four in a two-bedroom suite for $999. Throughout the Caribbean, the Club Med resorts offer a variety of deals this winter, including two nights free with three paid nights and room upgrades. Details vary by date and resort; www.clubmed.us. Cruises
Children 17 and under sail free this winter on Caribbean sailings on Costa Cruise Lines when sharing a cabin with two adults. The offer includes all of the line's seven-day sailings from Fort Lauderdale, Fla., including holiday voyages. Rates for adults start at $669 per person, double occupancy; with taxes and surcharges the cost is $791-$810, depending on the sailing.www.costacruise.com; MSC Cruises has a similar offer; ask about rates for Boomers and seniors, www.msccruisesusa.com. Washington, D.C.
Visit the capital for Thanksgiving and pay $119 per night at the Renaissance M Street Hotel. You must book at least 14 days in advance; must including at least one night between Nov. 23 and 30. www.renaissancemstreethotel.com Colorado
The Omni Interlocken outside Boulder offers rooms starting at $109, including use of the fitness facilities and hot tub and ski rental discounts. Good through Dec. 30, space permittingwww.omnihotels.com.
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Belize
Through Dec. 14, Tranquility Bay in Ambergris Cay offers a 25 percent discount off regular rates, with a one-bedroom cabana at $139, a two-bedroom for $169, for stays of four nights or more. www.tranquilitybayresort.com.
China
Asia is still a bargain — especially if you buy a package including air. Ritz Tours is offering up to $400 per couple off packages booked by Dec. 15. One option: 10-day Beijing, Xian and Shanghai starts at $2,177 including discount per person, including fees and surcharges. www.ritztours.com.
Copyright © 2008 The Seattle Times Company
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