Kara Birkenstock

Spring Travel Deals 2011 – Unwind on a Dime

Planning a vacation on a budget can be a daunting task, especially when it seems that airfare and hotel prices are continuously on the rise. One of the best parts about getting away is relaxing, whether it’s by the pool, at the spa, or by taking in the natural beauty of the destination. In order to unwind on a dime, sometimes you need to think outside the box. Ever think to travel to Colorado in the off season? Think Sedona is the only place for pure relaxation in Arizona? As your GAL resource, I found the following travel steals that will let you rest easy when it comes to booking your next getaway. Whether you desire a quick trip or a weeklong retreat, these undiscovered gems won’t put a damper on your wallet!

Park Hyatt Beaver Creek Resort & Spa (Avon, Colorado)

Colorado is often thought of as a winter destination, but the spring and summer months offer travelers the same lush accommodations and beautiful surroundings at a more reasonable price. The “Spring Renewal Package” at the Park Hyatt Beaver Creek Resort & Spa is an ideal way to enjoy an affordable stay at one of the premiere properties in the heart of the Vail Valley. For rates starting at $169/night, visitors will enjoy lodging at the award winning resort, plus your choice of a 50 minute Swedish massage or a 45 minute custom facial at Allegria Spa, named one of Colorado’s Best Spas (a $145 value). Whether travelling solo or with your significant other, there are plenty of outdoor activities to satisfy your adventurous side. From hiking, biking, and river rafting, to dipping in one of the five whirlpools beneath a mountain waterfall, you’ll feel renewed while taking in the natural beauty of your surroundings. For foodies, enjoy small plates and organic local wines at 8100 Mountainside Bar & Grill. And for a nostalgic twist, resort guests can enjoy a complimentary s’mores happy hour from 4-5p at the outdoor fire pit, including handmade marshmallows with flavors ranging from M&M to Grand Marnier! With no minimum stay required, the “Spring Renewal Package” is available from April 9 – June 16, 2011. To make a reservation, visit www.parkhyattbeavercreek.com or call 866-471-7658.

Allegria Spa at Park Hyatt Beaver Creek

Scottsdale Resort & Athletic Club (Scottsdale, Arizona)

If you’ve never thought of visiting Arizona for an invigorating wellness retreat, the “Spring Escape Deal” at the Scottsdale Resort Club will definitely change your mind. The Scottsdale Resort & Athletic Club is a family owned and operated establishment offering breathtaking views and unsurpassed recreational facilities. The “Spring Escape Deal” starts at just $89/night, and includes accommodations for two in one of the resorts comfortable guestrooms, complimentary continental breakfast, a $25 restaurant/bar credit, 10% off at the award winning Eurasia Spa, plus free access to the private athletic club. With 11 tennis courts, 2 levels of fitness studios and unlimited access to all the fitness classes you can imagine, guests will feel rejuvenated after experiencing all the resort has to offer. Start your day with a pilates or spinning class, and then enjoy an afternoon in the sun with a game of tennis on the championship hard courts (Top 50 Tennis Resorts in Tennis Magazine). To unwind after a day of exercise, take a refreshing plunge in to one of the resort’s 3 swimming pools, or enjoy a calming aromatherapy massage at the Eurasia Spa. The possibilities are endless at this renowned Scottsdale resort! The “Spring Escape Deal” is available from April 5 – June 1, 2011. For more information, visit www.scottsdaleresortandathleticclub.com or call 866-733-9564.

Center Court at Scottsdale Resort & Athletic Club

Las Villas Hotel & Spa at Estrella Del Mar (Mazatlan, Mexico)

Located on a 3.5 mile pristine white sand beach, Las Villas Hotel & Spa at Estrella Del Mar is truly an undiscovered gem on the Pacific coast of Mexico. Opened in June 2010, Las Villas offers luxurious accommodations and world class amenities in a beach town rich with Mexican history and tradition. Their Garden View Room “Vacation Package” is just $212/person, and includes lodging for 4 days/3nights, free transportation to/from the airport, welcome margaritas and daily breakfast for two. Garden view rooms are spacious, featuring oversized bathrooms, marble flooring, rain shower heads, wet/mini bars and a private balcony. Upon arrival to the resort, guests will receive a personally guided tour of the 816 acre estate, vibrant floral gardens, private beach, spa, and the most unique attraction of the property, the Turtle Preserve & Sanctuary. The Turtle Preserve is the largest of its type in Mexico, giving visitors the opportunity to view and interact with the incredible sea creatures. The Preserve hatches, nurtures, and releases more than 30,000 baby sea turtles each year! In addition to this wonderment, Estrella Del Mar boasts a gorgeous seaside golf course that is fully accessible to guests of Las Villas. And if you’re looking for more beachfront fun, try horseback riding in the sand followed by a swim in the stunning invisible edge pool. Need another reason to visit Las Villas? The extremely affordable full service spa, with massages and facials starting at just $35. If that’s not unwinding on a dime, I don’t know what is! For more information, visit http://www.mazatlanhotellasvillas.com/.

Robert Trent Jones, Jr. Golf Course at Estrella Del Mar

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