Tour Beijing’s Forbidden City, Cruise Suzhou’s Grand Canal, and Visit Shanghai’s Bazaar

Included in this tour package:

• Round-trip airfare from Chicago (ORD) (flight time: 13–14 hours) or from Seattle (SEA) (flight time: 10-11 hours) on Hainan Airlines
• Four nights of standard accommodations at 4-star Beijing International Hotel
• One night of standard accommodations at 4-star Grand Metro Park Hotel in Suzhou
• One night of standard accommodations at 4.5-star White Horse Lake Jianguo Hotel Hangzhou
• Two nights of standard accommodations at 4.5-star Renaissance Shanghai Putuo Hotel
• Meals and tours per itinerary

Click here to see the full itinerary.

Days 1–5: Beijing

An overnight flight takes you to Beijing, a megacity with a population of more than 20 million people. The following morning, the tour heads to the Forbidden City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that served as China’s imperial palace for five centuries. After exploring the Forbidden City’s imitable Chinese architecture, you’ll head to Tiananmen Square, Beijing’s iconic city center, and home to historic monuments from the Qing and Ming dynasties. Later, you’ll take a Hutong trishaw tour through Beijing’s trademark alleys to learn about other sacred sites and attractions.

You can spend Day 4 at your leisure or, for a fee, take an optional tour to the Great Wall of China. It’s one of the New 7 Wonders of the World and perhaps China’s most famous landmark.

On Day 5, the tour heads to the Temple of Heaven, a 15th-century complex best known for the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests, a 124-foot, conical building. The Hall’s intricate design includes significant symbolism—its 28 supportive pillars collectively represent the 12 Chinese prayer watches, the 12 months, and the four annual seasons.

Days 6–7: Suzhou

A short flight takes you to Shanghai, where you’ll transfer to Suzhou, nicknamed “Venice of the Orient” for its spectacular gardens and collection of canals. For a fee, you can take an optional cruise on the Grand Canal, the earth’s longest manmade canal. Dating back to the 5th century BC, the canal is still bordered by centuries-old buildings.

Over the next two days in Suzhou, you’ll tour a silk factory and explore the ancient Master of the Nets Garden, which is nearly a century old.

Days 8–10: Hangzhou and Shanghai

The tour will take a two-hour drive south to Hangzhou, where you’ll stop off at a local tea plantation for a sampling of Dragon Well tea before visiting West Lake—a beloved lake surrounded by pagodas and temples. Afterwards, you’ll travel to Shanghai via a cruise down the Huangpu River. If you arrive in Shanghai after dark, you’ll see glittering skyscrapers reflecting off the river.

In Shanghai, you’ll walk along the Bund district, which is perhaps the best example of western influence on the city. Here you’ll see a diverse assortment of European-inspired architecture, including centuries-old mansions and banks that exemplify ornate Baroque and Gothic architecture.

Before boarding your flight home, spend some time at Shanghai’s City God Bazaar, featuring elaborate altars for worship, along with teahouse shops that sell anything from designer clothing to handmade souvenirs.

Read the Fine Print for important info on travel dates and other restrictions.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How much would it cost to fly from an airport not listed as part of this deal?
Please call Rewards Travel China at 1-877-618-3886 for the quote.

2. Can we extend our trip before or after the promotional dates for the deal?
Yes, you do have the option to extend your stay, however, since its no longer a group rate ticket, there will be $200 airline charge for changing the return dates.

3. How do I find out if the dates I want to travel are available?
The dates listed in this promotion are all guaranteed departure dates.

4. What happens if I buy the Groupon and my travel dates are not available?
The dates listed in this promotion are all guaranteed departure dates.

5. Does my child need a Groupon, and can they stay in my room?
Yes, your child also need a Groupon.

Hotel at a Glance: Grove Isle Hotel & Spa

While many Miami hotels look out onto spectacular waterfront vistas, Grove Isle Hotel & Spa does so from a 20-acre private island. Dotted with tropical palms, the island offers sweeping views of Biscayne Bay and lots of privacy. There’s even an 85-slip marina where guests can dock their boats. But you’re not too far removed from the action—a narrow causeway connects the hotel to the mainland.

• A room with a view: All of the resort’s bay rooms have private balconies overlooking Biscayne Bay.
• Fine dining: Gibraltar serves up seafood specialties amid floor-to-ceiling views of the bay.
• Pamper yourself: A 6,000-square-foot spa offers Thai and Balinese treatments infused with local herbs.
• Tennis anyone?: The resort has 11 clay courts and a boutique tennis shop.
• Go for a run: A waterfront jogging path circles the island.

Miami’s Coconut Grove: Laid-Back Art District with Lush, Tropical Foliage

Set along the shores of Biscayne Bay a few miles south of downtown, Coconut Grove doesn’t feel like the typical fast-paced Miami neighborhood. On the contrary, it has a distinctly laid-back, artsy vibe, thanks to the eclectic galleries and gardens lining the streets. Some of the most beautiful foliage can be found at The Kampong, which showcases plants from Southeast Asia, South America, and the Caribbean, including deep-purple cocoplums and more than 50 varieties of mango.

The Grove is Miami’s oldest continually inhabited neighborhood and contains one of the city’s first public schoolhouses as well as one of the oldest houses in Miami, known as The Barnacle. Now part of a state park, the 19th-century home is open to visitors on most weekdays. To experience the neighborhood’s livelier side, head to CocoWalk, an open-air shopping, dining, and entertainment complex where a handful of bars stay open until 3 a.m.

Read the Fine Print for important info on travel dates and other restrictions.

Tropical Hotel Minutes from Orlando Theme Parks

Located just across the highway from the Walt Disney World® Theme Parks, the Polynesian Isles Resort is a tropical escape that’s still conveniently close to everything Kissimmee and Orlando have to offer.

Spacious two-bedroom accommodations comfortably sleep up to six guests; the rooms are equipped with fully stocked kitchens, cable TV, and a balcony, patio, or terrace. On the hotel grounds, palm trees and tiki huts can be found alongside a putting green and courts for tennis, basketball, and shuffleboard. The property’s outdoor pools and jetted spas stay open until midnight daily.

Kissimmee, Florida: Easy Access to World-Famous Theme Parks and Other Orlando Attractions

Located on the banks of Lake Tohopekaliga, Kissimmee sits about 22 miles from downtown Orlando and just 16 miles from the Walt Disney World® Theme Parks. The world’s most-visited entertainment resort, it spans roughly 30,000 acres, encompassing four theme parks, two water parks, five golf courses, and the Downtown Disney® Area. There’s no shortage of things to do here: begin your day by boarding a rocket-shaped three-seater that climbs to 180 feet before entering a deep black tunnel and racing past stars, satellites, and constellations. Walk across the park to sample Moroccan cuisine for lunch, or ride a dune buggy through a haunted 18th-century mansion. Before heading back to the hotel, take in the nightly fireworks, laser, and water show. One of the most popular family destinations in the world, sunny Orlando is also home to Universal Orlando Resort and SeaWorld Orlando.

Those hoping to shake up the typical theme-park-dominated itinerary can head into downtown Orlando's vibrant arts district. The neighborhood boasts venues such as the CityArts Factory, a multifaceted patchwork of gallery spaces, and SAK Comedy Lab, which holds improv shows five nights a week.

About a 10-minute drive north, you’ll find several cultural institutions surrounding Orlando Loch Haven Park, including the Orlando Museum of Art, with a collection featuring pieces by Georgia O’Keeffe, Robert Rauschenberg, Ansel Adams, and Andy Warhol. The park is also home to the Orlando Shakespeare Theater and the Orlando Science Center. Visit the Science Center to take a rover across a simulation of Mars or race model cars down a 70-foot pinewood-derby track.

Read the Fine Print for important info on travel dates and other restrictions.

Hotel at a Glance: Ramada Venice Resort

Florida’s Gulf Coast is home to dozens of spectacular white-sand beaches. The Ramada Venice Resort, located in southern Sarasota County, is located near some of the best. Two miles west, Venice Beach has been called the “Shark Tooth Capital of the World” for its impressive concentration of these jagged fossils. You can hunt for the teeth along the shore, or dive to a reef a quarter mile offshore. A short drive up the coast lies Siesta Key Beach. Boasting “the finest and whitest sand in the world,” it was named America’s Best Beach in 2011 by coastal researcher Dr. Beach for its ideal swimming waters and top-notch facilities.

• Nifty in-room amenities: Guest rooms feature stainless steel refrigerators and microwaves, and 37-inch flat-screen TVs. Spacious suites also offer a contemporary living area and a wet bar.
• Onsite dining: The Wave Grill serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner
• Go swimming: Take a dip in the hotel’s outdoor pool or head to one the nearby public beaches
• Recommended biking trail: Legacy Trail runs 12 miles past golf greens, farmlands, and wetlands from Venice to Sarasota
• Best beach for lounging: Lie under a palm tree at Siesta Key Beach in nearby Sarasota. The beach won a TripAdvisor 2013 award for best beach.
• Distance to downtown Venice: Two miles
• Bring Fido: The hotel is pet-friendly, and pooches can run off-leash at Brohard Paw Beach three miles away

Venice, Florida: Championship Golf Courses and Beaches Along the Gulf

Located on central Florida’s Sun Coast between St. Petersburg and Fort Myers, Venice boasts seven miles of beachfront along the Gulf of Mexico. The town is affectionately called the "Shark Tooth Capital of the World"—at Venice Beach, divers comb the offshore reef for teeth, and the town hosts a festival every year to celebrate the abundance of the fascinating fossils. The coast is strewn with plenty of other treasures, as well. You can find a variety of shells on Caspersen Beach, including lightning whelk, lion’s paw, and junonia, which can only be found on the state’s west coast. Fishing is another popular pastime, and anglers line up along the 700-foot-long Venice Beach Pier in hopes of catching tarpon, flounder, or Spanish mackerel.

There’s more to the city that its beaches. Venice also boasts a number of championship golf courses, some of which offer dazzling water views. Downtown Venice is a charming mix of al fresco cafes, funky boutiques, and historical sites. Each Saturday, at the Venice Farmers’ Market, you can pick up fresh seafood, locally grown produce, and handmade knickknacks.

Read the Fine Print for important info on travel dates and other restrictions.

Irish Country Estate near Centuries-Old Castles

The trip includes:

• Round-trip airfare from New York (JFK), Boston (BOS), Chicago (ORD), or Los Angeles (LAX) to Dublin (DUB) on Aer Lingus
• Six-night stay in a two- or three-bedroom private villa at Adare Manor
• Full-size car rental (manual transmission)
• Taxes and fees

Few spots in Europe feel as timeless as the Irish countryside. The craggy, untouched coastline and rolling meadows dotted with herds of sheep and the occasional crumbling castle seem to belong to a faraway past, as though the Industrial Revolution never managed to jump the Irish Sea. Great Value Vacations' luxury Ireland vacation package puts you in the heart of this storied landscape, within easy driving distance of the Emerald Isle's most iconic landmarks, including Blarney Castle, the Cliffs of Moher, and Galway Bay. The Ring of Kerry and the idyllic town of Killarney are also easily accessible by car. The vacation includes a six-night stay in a private, two- or three-bedroom villa at the elegant Adare Manor Villas as well as round-trip economy-class airfare to Dublin and a full-size car rental (with manual transmission) for the duration of your visit. Click here for more info on the trip and available upgrade options.

Set on a palatial 840-acre estate in the verdant Irish countryside, Adare Manor was built as a home for the second earl of Dunraven. The River Maigue flows past the grounds, which feature labyrinthine gardens and centuries-old forests. At the manor house, tangles of ivy cover stone walls punctuated by gothic columns and 365 cathedral-style windows. A scenic stroll from the manor house brings you to your private villa. Inside, you'll find a full kitchen and two or three spacious bedrooms outfitted with down comforters and elegant decor.

The estate's rolling hills make the perfect natural setting for the 18-hole golf course, which was designed by golf great Robert Trent Jones, Sr. Other outdoor pursuits on offer include archery, hot air balloon rides, and open-air speed readings of Finnegans Wake. After a day spent hiking or trout fishing on the Maigue, you can dine at one of the manor's restaurants, where chefs put a gourmet twist on local favorites such as fish 'n' chips and rack of lamb.

Read the Fine Print for important info on travel dates and other restrictions.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How much would it cost to fly from an airport not listed as part of this deal? Call Great Value Vacations at 1-800-495-4903 for additional pricing options from any departure airport not listed on the Groupon Getaways deal page.

2. Can we extend our trip before or after the promotional dates for the deal? Yes, you can arrange for that over the phone when you redeem your vacation.

3. How do I find out if the dates I want to travel are available? Call Great Value Vacations at 1-800-495-4903 for the most up-to-date availability.

4. What happens if I buy the Groupon and my travel dates are not available? If Great Value Vacations is unable to book the stay you want during the available dates and before the book-by date, Groupon will refund your purchase.

5. Does my child need a Groupon, and can they stay in my room? All travelers over the age of 2 are required to purchase a Groupon. Different occupancy arrangements can be requested with Great Value Vacations at the time of reservation.

Seven-Day Multi-City Tour of Peru

This trip includes:

• Round-trip airfare from LAN Airlines
• Six nights of standard accommodations in first-class hotels (seven nights for JFK/LAX departures)
• Vistadome train to/from Machu Picchu
• Five breakfasts and one lunch
• Comprehensive guided sightseeing tours, including entrance fees
• Professional English-speaking tour guides
• Transportation and hotel transfers

Click here to see the day-by-day itinerary.

Day 1: Lima

After arriving in Peru’s capital city, Lima, you’ll check in at the 4-star Casa Andina Select Miraflores hotel, which features a sports bar, a restaurant, and an outdoor jacuzzi.

Day 2: Ollantaytambo Temple, Sacred Valley

Board a brief flight to Cuzco, the ancient Incan capital. The group visits a colorful open-air market in the nearby village of Pisac, where locals sell hand-woven alpaca sweaters, carved gourds, and pottery.

The highlight of this leg of the trip is a visit to Ollantaytambo temple. Here, granite-hewn temples and fountains are perched atop hundreds of stone steppes carved into the mountainside. The Temple of the Sun is made up of six interlocking pink-granite slabs weighing in at 50 tons each.

Accommodations: Casa Andina Private Collection Sacred Valley or La Hacienda del Valle

Days 3–4: Machu Picchu

The next day, a Vistadome train takes you through the Sacred Valley en route to Machu Picchu, which has been described as one of the New 7 Wonders of the World. This 12-acre UNESCO World Heritage site and former Incan estate overlooks the Urubamba River. During the tour, you'll see stone sculptures, ornate palaces, and rock-carved terraces that were used for irrigation. The following morning, you can independently explore Machu Picchu for an additional $74 fee before boarding a train bound for Cuzco, with arrival slated in the afternoon of Day 4.

Hotel: the eco-friendly El MaPi Hotel, located near Machu Picchu’s base in Aguas Calientes.

Day 5: Cuzco

The next stop is Cuzco, which served as the capital of the Incan Empire. Frommer’s calls this ancient site “one of the undisputed highlights of South America.” During your stay, you'll tour the city center to see the Plaza de Armas town square and visit the 16th-century Cuzco Cathedral, which features Incan artwork, a silver altar, and South America’s largest bell.

While in Cuzco, you can take advantage of optional tours to the nearby ruins of Tipon and Oropesa ($103 per person) or a visit to the Sacsayhuaman fortress and Incan baths ($75 per person) on Day 5. On Day 6 in the morning, you can visit Chinchero, one of the Incan Empire’s most important cultural and agricultural centers ($89 per person).

Hotel: Casa Andina Private Collection Cusco or Hotel Novotel Cusco

Days 6–7: Lima

As Peru's capital city, Lima is very much the country’s cultural core, packed with open-air markets, archaeological museums, and restaurants serving ceviche. On a driving tour of Lima, you'll see colonial-era buildings such as the famed Monastery of San Francisco. The monastery's yellow façade and baroque accents are striking, but it's the interior that will stay with you. Inside the church’s underground tunnels, thousands of human bones have been arranged to form elaborate geometric patterns.

Optional Trip Extension

For an additional fee, you can stay in Peru a little longer and head to Arequipa, known as Peru’s White City for its stark, ivory-hued buildings. The tour then makes its way to Colca Canyon, one of the earth’s deepest canyons.

Read the Fine Print for important info on travel dates and other restrictions.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How much would it cost to fly from an airport not listed as part of this deal? This deal is available only from the featured gateways: Miami, Los Angeles & JFK
2. Can we extend our trip before or after the promotional dates for the deal? Late returns are possible at a cost of $100 per person, plus any difference in airfare, as long as the late return is on the date of the extension to our tour. Late returns that fall on dates other than the extension return date will be not be possible at the very special reduced airfare we have negotiated for this tour. To book a late return, just let Friendly Planet know and we’ll do our best to confirm you on the extension return date.
3. How do I find out if the dates I want to travel are available? If your requested date is available for purchase on Groupon’s site, it should still be available.
4. What happens if I buy the Groupon and my travel dates are not available? Technically, you should not be able to buy a Groupon for a sold out date or departure city.
5. Does my child need a Groupon, and can they stay in my room? Every passenger traveling is required to have one. Triple rooms are not available in Peru, so your child may share a room with one other adult.

Spacious Condos Close to Orlando Theme Parks

A vacation to the Orlando area is a dream for many families. Nowhere else in the world will you find as many world-class amusement parks, from Walt Disney World® Theme Parks to Universal Orlando Resort. Located in Orlando’s neighboring city, Kissimmee, Florida Deluxe Villas offers upscale condos that are spacious enough to house the whole family.

Two- and three-bedroom condos are all outfitted with eat-in kitchens, washers and dryers, and spacious living rooms. Onsite you’ll find clubhouses that feature fitness centers, jacuzzis, pools, game rooms, and saunas. Check the Florida Deluxe Villas website for a complete list of available units.

A concierge is on duty at the welcome center 24 hours a day to assist you. As an authorized independent retailer for Walt Disney World® Theme Parks, the concierge can sell park tickets as well as discounted admission to other area attractions and dinner shows.

Call for reservations between 9:30 a.m. and 3 p.m. EST.

Kissimmee, Florida: Easy Access to World-Famous Theme Parks and Major Orlando Attractions

Located on the banks of Lake Tohopekaliga, Kissimmee sits about 22 miles from downtown Orlando and is within a 25-minute drive from the Walt Disney World® Theme Parks, the world’s most-visited entertainment resort. It spans roughly 30,000 acres, encompassing four theme parks, two water parks, five golf courses, and the Downtown Disney® Area.

There’s no shortage of things to do here: begin your day by boarding a rocket-shaped three-seater that climbs to 180 feet before entering a deep black tunnel and racing past stars, satellites, and constellations. Walk across the park to sample Moroccan cuisine for lunch, or ride a dune buggy through a haunted 18th-century mansion. Before heading back to the hotel, take in the nightly fireworks, laser, and water show. One of the most popular family destinations in the world, sunny Orlando is also home to Universal Orlando Resort and SeaWorld Orlando.

Those hoping to shake up the typical theme-park-dominated itinerary can head into downtown Orlando's vibrant arts district. The neighborhood boasts venues such as the CityArts Factory, a multifaceted patchwork of gallery spaces, and SAK Comedy Lab, which holds improv shows five nights a week.

About a 10-minute drive north, you’ll find several cultural institutions surrounding Orlando Loch Haven Park, including the Orlando Museum of Art, with a collection featuring pieces by Georgia O’Keeffe, Robert Rauschenberg, Ansel Adams, and Andy Warhol. The park is also home to the Orlando Shakespeare Theater and the Orlando Science Center. Visit the Science Center to take a rover across a simulation of Mars’s red surface or race model cars down a 70-foot pinewood-derby track.

Read the Fine Print for important info on travel dates and other restrictions.

Upscale Orlando Hotel near Theme Parks

A reflecting pool, a bubbling fountain, and groves of palm trees mark the grand entrance to The Florida Hotel and Conference Center, a recently renovated property located just a few minutes from Orlando’s major theme parks and airport. Inside the lobby, a hallway connects the hotel to the massive Florida Mall, which means a host of restaurants and shops—such as the Apple Store and White House | Black Market—are just steps from your guest room.

Each evening, the onsite Cricket’s bar hosts a happy hour with two-for-one cocktails and appetizers. For more substantial eats, venture to Marcelo’s Bistro for barbecue brisket, half-pound burgers, and other traditional American fare for lunch or dinner. The hotel’s heated outdoor pool is a nice spot to enjoy the Florida sunshine, and the onsite spa offers an array of services ranging from deep-tissue massages to reflexology and ear candling.

Orlando, Florida: World-Famous Theme Parks and Cultural Surprises

Located in the center of Florida, Orlando may be forever associated with the Walt Disney World® Theme Parks, which now are part of the world’s most-visited entertainment resort. It spans roughly 30,000 acres, encompassing four theme parks, two water parks, five golf courses, and the Downtown Disney® Marketplace. There’s no shortage of things to do here: begin your day by boarding a rocket-shaped three-seater that climbs to 180 feet before entering a deep black tunnel and racing past stars, satellites, and constellations. Walk across the park to sample Moroccan cuisine for lunch, or ride a dune buggy through a haunted 18th-century mansion. Before heading back to the hotel, take in the nightly fireworks, laser, and water show. One of the most popular family destinations in the world, sunny Orlando is also home to Universal Orlando Resort, SeaWorld Orlando, and Gatorland.

Those hoping to shake up the typical theme-park-dominated itinerary can head into downtown Orlando's vibrant arts district. The neighborhood boasts venues such as CityArts Factory, a multifaceted patchwork of gallery spaces, and SAK Comedy Lab, which hosts family-friendly improv shows five nights a week.

About a 10-minute drive north, you’ll find eight cultural institutions at Loch Haven Park, including the Orlando Museum of Art, which houses pieces by Georgia O’Keeffe, Robert Rauschenberg, Ansel Adams, and Andy Warhol. The park is also home to the Orlando Shakespeare Theater, the Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra, and the Orlando Science Center. Visit the science center to take a rover across a simulation of Mars’s red surface, or race on a 70-foot pinewood derby track.

Read the Fine Print for important info on travel dates and other restrictions.

All-Inclusive Vacation at Oceanfront Resort in the Dominican Republic

Included in all options:

• Round-trip airfare from Fort Lauderdale/Hollywood International Airport (FLL)
• Seven-night, all-inclusive stay in a superior ocean view room at Coral Costa Caribe Resort
• All meals, including buffet and a la carte options
• Unlimited alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages from a selection of domestic and international brands
• Non-motorized watersports including snorkeling, windsurfing, and kayaking
• Daily and nightly activity programs
• Bicycles for riding around the premises
• Scuba clinic in the pool
• Concierge services and tour assistance
• 10-minute massage
• Additional departure cities available for additional fee, including Washington D.C. for $150, Boston for $200, and NYC for $230.

Coral Costa Caribe Resort

Juan Dolio, located on the Dominican Republic’s southern coast, has emerged as an upscale resort town in recent years. Several shops and restaurants have popped up, and many hotels in the area have undergone extensive renovations—including the Coral Costa Caribe Resort. This all-inclusive resort overlooks the ocean on Playa Juan Julio, the town’s main beach. It caters to all kinds of guests: there’s a 24-hour sports bar, a Vegas-style casino, and a supervised kids’ club with a separate swimming pool.

Coral Costa Caribe offers a range of complimentary activities. You can borrow kayaks and snorkeling gear to explore the surrounding Caribbean waters, or settle into a chaise lounge at one of the resort’s three swimming pools. The main pool, located next to the hotel beach bar, is the most popular—guests gather here to slurp cocktails from the bar’s slushie machines and play games of pool volleyball. The fun goes late into the night— you can play poker and slots at the onsite Dreams Casino, or dance to Latin rhythms until 3 a.m. at Boom Disco.

With five restaurants onsite, you have the opportunity to sample a variety of international and local cuisine. Santa Fe Grill serves up traditional Mexican fare such as prawns in tequila sauce and enchiladas, and the Ambar restaurant buffet features homemade pastas.

The resort’s superior rooms included in this package are cool and comfortable with balconies or patios and air-conditioning.

Juan Dolio, Dominican Republic: Resort Town with Family-Friendly Beaches and Active Nightlife

Juan Dolio is located less than one hour east of Santo Domingo on the shores of the Caribbean Ocean. After a series of improvements, the town has had more than 14 million cubic feet of sand added to its beaches. At Playa Juan Dolio, the main beach in town, a manmade barrier blocks large waves, making it a popular spot for swimming and sunbathing. Among the other favorite pastimes here: golf and gambling at the casinos.

For a small town, Juan Dolio boasts an impressive nightlife scene. Restaurants and dance clubs line the main strip, a scenic stretch that follows the shoreline.

There’s a rowdy nightlife scene in San Pedro de Macoris, too, located a few miles east. By day, you can visit the city’s historic sugar plantations by hopping on the back of an ATV.

Read the Fine Print for important info on travel dates and other restrictions.

Costa Rica Vacation with Horseback Riding and Coffee Tour

The trip includes:

• Round-trip airfare
• Transfers to Finca Rosa Blanca
• Two nights at Finca Rosa Blanca Coffee Plantation & Inn
• Coffee tour
• Flight/land or boat transfer back to Tambor (customer choice at time of redemption)
• Land transfers to Tango Mar Beach, Spa & Golf Resort
• Four nights at Tango Mar Beach, Spa & Golf Resort
• A horseback riding tour
• Flight/land or boat transfer to San Jose Airport (customer choice at time of redemption)
• Daily breakfast at all hotels

See a full itinerary here.

Two Nights in Heredia You’ll head to Heredia, just outside of Costa Rica’s capital city, San Jose. There, you’ll find colorful street markets, mist-veiled volcanoes, and fragrant coffee plantations. You'll get to tour a working coffee farm at Finca Rosa Blanca Coffee Plantation & Inn. Staff members demonstrate how the 30-acre estate’s organic beans are grown and harvested, and you may get to sample some of the java for yourself.

Set against a backdrop of volcanic peaks and mangrove forests, the vibrant plazas of downtown San Jose are filled with juggling street performers, musicians, and vendors. Among the city’s museums, the Pre-Columbian Gold Museum stands out. It boasts a stunning collection of artifacts, including jewelry, chest plates, and animal sculptures.

Four Nights in Nicoya Peninsula

The town of Tambor sits on Costa Rica's famed Nicoya Peninsula, along a horseshoe-shaped bay girded by high, rocky bluffs. The rocks naturally shelter the bay, keeping the waters placid and swimmable. Fishing is a popular pursuit here, along with snorkeling and hiking along the Rio Panica. Tambor is also located close to the popular surf towns of Montezuma, Mal Pais, and Santa Teresa.

While you’re in Tambor, you'll be staying at the Tango Mar Beach, Spa & Golf Resort, which is steps from the Pacific Ocean. The 150-acre property features a nine-hole golf course and a spring-fed swimming pool. This deal comes with a horseback riding tour of the surrounding landscape, which includes two private beaches with golden sand—a result of volcanic activity in the region.

The nearby Curu Wildlife Reserve is home to spider monkeys, iguanas, scarlet macaws, and other creatures. Beachside, you can sometimes see olive ridley sea turtles laying eggs.

Read the Fine Print for important info on travel dates and other restrictions.

1920s Inn Frequented by Duchess of Windsor

Constructed in the 1920s by railroad magnate S. Davies Warfield, Seminole Inn in Indiantown, Florida, exemplifies the ideal of an elegant Mission Revival hotel. With 20-inch-thick stucco walls, a grand front porch, and red-tiled roof, the inn looks stands out in sleepy Indiantown. Once frequented by socialite Wallis Simpson, who would later become the Duchess of Windsor, the inn hasn’t lost any of its old-Florida glamour. The original honey-colored hardwood floors and wicker furniture welcome guests into the sitting room, which features a fireplace framed by a grand staircase.

The inn’s two dining establishments offer two distinctly different experiences. Enjoy a Sunday brunch at the The Windsor Dining Room, where guests have dined under its cypress ceiling for more than 70 years. The formal country brunch includes roast beef, omelets, fried chicken, and sweet-potato casserole. For a more casual atmosphere, drop by the Foxgrape Café, which serves the inn’s famous fried-green-tomato-and-bacon sandwiches.

After eating your fill, head past the hand-painted Seminole Indian mural in the hallway to your Royal king, king, queen, or two-double-bed room to relax in individually decorated surroundings. Some rooms feature pine-paneled walls and pastel quilts, and others have a little extra room for couples to stretch out. Before leaving, take a dip in the curving blue swimming pool out back, or lounge in one of the hammocks and rocking chairs along the patio.

Indiantown, Florida: Small Town Between Lake Okeechobee and West Palm Beach

Indiantown is a quiet community close to southern Florida’s spectacular natural attractions. The town sits on the edge of the Dupuis Wildlife Reserve, a state forest with 21,900 acres of trails, everglades marsh, and cypress swamps. About 7 miles from Indiantown lies Lake Okeechobee, the largest lake in the southwestern United States, where you can fish for largemouth bass, crappie, and bluegill.

About 35 miles east of Indiantown, West Palm Beach‘s Loggerhead Park is one of the best spots to lounge at the beach and enjoy the scenic oceanfront. Take the Palm Beach Water Taxi to the town’s restaurants, boutique shops, and museums, including the Flagler Museum, set inside the lavish turn-of-the-century Whitehall Mansion.

Read the Fine Print for important info on travel dates and other restrictions.

The trip includes:

• Round-trip airfare from SATA International
  
• Six nights of standard accommodations at São Miguel Park Hotel
  
• Daily breakfast

Luxurious Vacation on Remote Island Off Portuguese Coast

The Azores islands are the definition of “remote”: the closest mainland, Portugal, is almost 1,000 miles away. Travel + Leisure ranked voyaging to the Azores on its list of 40 Trips to Change Your World. You’ll get to experience this exotic volcanic archipelago with this Groupon.

This deal includes round-trip airfare via SATA International and a stay at the São Miguel Park Hotel, which overlooks the Atlantic Ocean and São Miguel Island's main city, Ponta Delgada.

The hotel is tucked away from the city center. You can relax in its jacuzzi or kick back by an outdoor pool and a sunlit indoor pool surrounded by walls of windows. São Miguel Park Hotel’s intimate onsite restaurant is decorated in warm reds and wicker accents and specializes in Azorean cuisine, served both à la carte and buffet style. The spread might include exotic fruits and vegetables and fresh grilled seafood.

São Miguel Island, Azores: Endemic Flora, Hot Springs, and Cobblestone Streets

Roughly 1,000 miles west of Portugal's shores sit the Azores, a cluster of nine volcanic islands that bask in sunny weather throughout the year. The largest of these is São Miguel Island, aptly dubbed the Green Island. It's practically overrun with exotic flora and dense tropical greenery. Where there isn't a carpet of green, you can find fumaroles—clouds of steam that emerge from the ground—and hot springs. The twin azure and green lakes of the Sete Cidades region are set in an ancient volcanic caldera with misty rock walls that tower over the area at upwards of 1,600 feet tall. About a half hour south, you can see sinuous Indian rubber trees and rare blooms at Ponta Delgada's Antonio Borges Botanical Gardens.

As São Miguel Island’s major city, Ponta Delgada draws much of the tourist traffic—and for good reason. The city's cobblestone streets are lined with stately baroque buildings, including the São Sebastian Catholic Church, a 16th-century masterpiece with accents of rare Brazilian wood and actual gold thread on the inside. The Gorreana Tea Estate, is among the oldest of Europe's few tea plantations. On free tours of the plantation, you can learn about tea production from the estate's rolling fields and sample fresh Azorean green tea in the tearoom.

Read the Fine Print for important info on travel dates and other restrictions.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How much would it cost to fly from an airport not listed as part of this deal?
A Groupon must be purchased from the available options. To add on a different airport to connect with the cities listed prices will vary with availability

2. Can we extend our trip before or after the promotional dates for the deal?
The offer is for the selected periods only. SATA cannot guarantee air availability or hotel accommodation outside of these periods.

3. How do I find out if the dates I want to travel are available?
Please call SATA at 800-762-9995.

4. What happens if I buy the Groupon and my travel dates are not available?
Your Groupon will be refunded.

5. Does my child need a Groupon, and can they stay in my room?
Yes, each person needs a Groupon. Rooms can accommodate up to 3 people

Idyllic Beach at All-Inclusive Resort

When Christopher Columbus first laid eyes on the Dominican Republic more than five centuries ago, he declared it "a beautiful island paradise." Today, the Parque Nacional del Este, near the country's southeastern edge, is so well-preserved that it might reflect what Columbus himself saw. Along the coast, mangrove lagoons shelter rare birds such as Hispaniolan parrots and red-throated frigatebirds, and offshore, coral outcroppings attract snorkelers and divers.

Just northwest of the park, the all-inclusive Hotel Be Live Canoa faces a spectacular shore of its own: the country's first Blue Flag beach, one that meets high environmental standards, and, according to Fodor's, is "idyllic" with "absolutely no undertow."

The resort's layout seamlessly connects the broad beach to the outdoor pool, built in a curvy shape that resembles an amoeba from above. Soaring coconut palms and palapa-style thatched umbrellas dot the fine sand, and you can order tropical cocktails from the oceanfront or the swim-up bar. In one of two kids' clubs—one for ages 4–7, the other for ages 8–12—youngsters can splash through kiddie pools or build replicas of their favorite office building in the sand.

With the all-inclusive package, dine at four onsite restaurants, ranging from all-day buffets to sit-down Brazilian, Mexican, and Pan-Asian joints. Upstairs, sodas and beers stock mini fridges inside deluxe rooms, replete with extra-tall headboards, damask prints, and a private terrace.

Playa Dominicus, Dominican Republic: Pristine Shoreline near Dominican Metropolis

As a Blue Flag beach, Playa Dominicus doesn't just look spotless—its crystal-clear water is free of contaminants, and ideal for scuba divers and swimmers. From here, you can charter a catamaran or speedboat cruise to the Parque Nacional del Este, composed of a peninsula of dense jungle and limestone bluffs and a large, deserted island, Isla Saona. While cruising, keep an eye out for bottlenose dolphins, which often play in the slipstream of passing boats.

Half an hour northwest sits the city of La Romana, an urban hub with more than 250,000 inhabitants. Here, you’ll find one of largest cigar factories in the world, which offers tours, tastings, and a duty-free zone where you can buy perfume bottles and gems.

Read the Fine Print for important info on travel dates and other restrictions.

Family-Friendly Indoor-Waterpark Resort

The Hurricane Vortex whirlpool ride at KeyLime Cove Waterpark Resort looks like a giant pinwheel painted with gold and orange stripes. Once the ride begins, those stripes blur into red as a torrent of water whips you around before safely dropping you in the Lazy River. The ride is one of eight major aquatic attractions at KeyLime Cove’s sprawling 65,000-square-foot indoor waterpark, which is located in Gurnee, Illinois, about an hour north of downtown Chicago.

Kids of all ages will find something to do here. The indoor facility—which is kept at a balmy 84 degrees—houses two 500-foot water slides, a wave pool, and the interactive Toukie’s Big Deluge aquatic playground for kids. KeyLime Cove is a conveniently cashless resort. Upon check-in, you’ll receive a high-tech wristband that also functions as your room key, waterpark ticket, and credit card for anything and everything at the resort.

While the kids play games in the RipTide Reef Arcade, adults can unwind in the Paradise Mist Spa. Families can meet up for dinner at any of the resort’s six eateries, including The Crazy Toucan and D.W. Anderson's, an old-fashioned soda fountain with 1950s decor. Upstairs, the resort’s guest rooms feature flat-screen televisions and complimentary WiFi.

Gurnee, Illinois: Near Chicago’s North Shore

Located about halfway between Chicago and Milwaukee, the village of Gurnee is home to Gurnee Mills, one of the largest malls in Illinois. Here you’ll find hundreds of stores and restaurants. The town lies just west of Chicago’s North Shore, a group of affluent suburbs along Lake Michigan. There are several sites to explore in these nearby cities. Picturesque Evanston, where Northwestern University is based, was named one of the Coolest Suburbs Worth a Visit by Travel + Leisure. The Chicago Botanic Garden, where more than 9,000 types of plants are tended to all year round, is in nearby Glencoe.

Read the Fine Print for important info on travel dates and other restrictions.

Adults-Only, All-Inclusive Resort with Lively Nightlife

From the rolling rhythms of reggae music to a dress code of swimsuits and flip-flops, Jamaica’s resort communities embody the concept of "laid-back." Club Ambiance, an adults-only, all-inclusive resort located on the island's secluded north coast, fits the bill with unlimited cocktails, a clothing-optional beach, and a disco club that stays open as late as revelers want. This laissez-faire atmosphere is one of the reasons the hotel attracts repeat guests, many of whom reportedly refer to Club Ambiance a "home away from home."

You can enjoy a lazy afternoon on one of the property's three white-sand beaches, which stretch along the Caribbean Sea. Wade in small swimming coves, sunbathe on the secluded nude beach section, or take to the water on complimentary paddleboats and kayaks. There's a lively scene at the ocean-view pool, too, where people frequently partake in volleyball games and aerobics classes. Onsite restaurants serve full buffet spreads for breakfast, lunch, and dinner as well as à la carte options, such as steak and lobster (extra fees may apply).

Runaway Bay, Jamaica: Quiet Resort Town near Natural Wonders

Runaway Bay is tucked into the northern coast of Jamaica, between Montego Bay and Ocho Rios. The secluded town is one of the island's smallest—Lonely Planet calls it "a one-street village”—and it's noticeably quieter than its tourist-clogged neighbors. But what it lacks in size Runaway Bay makes up in natural attractions. Some of the best underwater sights in the Caribbean can be explored during scuba-diving tours of the coral reef just offshore. And about 4 miles (7 km) west of town, you can explore the limestone vaults and subterranean lakes of the Green Grotto Caves, which were used as a hideout by Spanish die-hards during Jamaica's 18th-century colonization by the English.

A scenic 25-minute drive brings you to one of the island's most popular attractions—Dunn's River Falls. This natural wonder consists of a series of terraced waterfalls cascading from the mountains to the sea like a gigantic flight of stairs. Thousands of travelers visit the site each year, and it even served as a filming location for the first James Bond movie, Dr. No. Today, tour groups frolic at the bottom of the falls or make the 600-foot climb to the top behind local guides.

Read the Fine Print for important info on travel dates and other restrictions.

Hotel at a Glance: Best Western Plus Yacht Harbor Inn

In 2008, Dr. Beach named Caladesi Island State Park the best beach in America for its soft white sands and “sparkling clear water.” Located on Caladesi Island, one of a string of barrier islands off Florida’s west coast, it’s accessible only by boat or ferry, which helps maintain the beach’s pristine wildlife setting. You can see these islands from the Best Western Plus Yacht Harbor Inn, a boutique hotel overlooking the Gulf of Mexico. Boat charters are available at the marina next door, putting Caladesi Island State Park and other award-winning beaches within reach.

• Onsite dining: At the hotel’s onsite Bon Appetit Restaurant, diners can enjoy award-winning seafood and spectacular water views. Marina Cafe’s waterfront terrace is a great place for predinner cocktails.
• Interesting dishes: Roasted red snapper on a bed of lobster hash and maine lobster linguine flambéed in sherry
• Go swimming: In the hotel’s heated outdoor pool and jacuzzi, or head to Clearwater’s famous white-sand beaches 5 miles south
• Must-see attraction: Busch Gardens is home to more than 2,000 exotic animals including bengal tigers, chimpanzees, giraffes, and white rhinos, all of which live in re-creations of their natural habitats.
• Recommended biking trail: The 47-mile-long Pinellas Trail runs through downtown Dunedin, with beautiful coastal views along the way.
• Nifty in-room amenities: Renovated in 2012, all guest rooms feature refrigerators, microwaves, and balconies or patios.

Dunedin, Florida: Barrier Islands with Sandy Beaches and Native Wildlife

Located 30 miles west of Tampa and just north of Clearwater Beach, the town of Dunedin overlooks the Gulf of Mexico. Running parallel to the coast of Dunedin is a string of lush barrier islands; drive across the Dunedin Causeway to reach the popular Honeymoon Island and its eponymous state park. Here, you can snorkel in the warm waters of the gulf and comb the beaches for seashells. Keep an eye out for osprey nests and other native shorebirds.

From Honeymoon Island, you can take the Caladesi Island Ferry to the more secluded Caladesi Island State Park, famous for its unspoiled white-sand beaches. Hop on a kayak and paddle a 3-mile waterway past mangroves or hike a 3-mile nature trail on the island’s interior.

Read the Fine Print for important info on travel dates and other restrictions.

Amazon Rainforest Excursion, Guided Walking Tours, and Trip to Cotopaxi National Park

Included in all tours:

• Round-trip flights from Miami to Quito via scheduled carriers, including fuel surcharges and taxes and fees
• All ground transportation and transfers
• Seven nights standard accommodations in luxury hotels with private bath
• 15 meals, including 7 buffet breakfasts, 3 lunches, 5 dinners
• Comprehensive guided sightseeing tours, including entrance fees
• Professional English-speaking tour directors and guides

Alternate gateways are available for an additional fee, subject to availability: $200 for New York (JFK), $250 for Boston (BOS) and Washington DC (IAD), $350–$400 for Chicago (ORD), and $400 for Los Angeles (LAX)

Click here for the full itinerary.

Days 1–3: Quito City Tour, the Middle of the World Monument, and Otavalo

Hotel accommodations for Quito: 4.5-star Sheraton Quito Hotel, centrally located in downtown Quito

Hotel accommodations for Otavalo: Puerto Lago, on the shores of San Pablo Lake

Hotel accommodations in Papallacta: Termas de Papallacta, which features a hydrotherapy center with five hot thermal pools

After landing in Quito, you’ll have the rest of the day to relax.

The next morning, the tour kicks off in Quito, the capital of Ecuador and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Surrounded by snow-capped peaks, the city’s cobblestone streets are lined with colonial buildings and many 16th-century churches with elaborate interiors adorned with real gold leaf. Travelers will visit the Legislative Palace and Alameda Park, which holds South America’s oldest observatory, as well as the Monastery of San Francisco, Quito's oldest church. Stop at one of Quito’s top attractions, the Middle of the World Monument, which sits on the exact spot where Charles Marie de la Condamine first established the equator. You can stand with one foot in the northern hemisphere and one in the southern.

After leaving Quito at the end of Day 2, you’ll spend Day 3 exploring the town of Otavalo, home to one of South America’s most spectacular markets. The scene here is saturated in color—stalls overflow with hand-woven clothing and fresh vegetables, and the local Otavaleno Indian women who work at the market wear intricately embroidered blouses and beaded necklaces. Afterward, the group will make their way to the small town of Papallacta at the entrance of the Amazon jungle.

Days 4–5: Amazon Rainforest Excursion

Hotel accommodations in Punta Ahuano: Casa del Suizo, located on the shores of the Napo River amid the Amazon Rainforest

The Amazonian part of the tour begins on day 4. After crossing the Napo River via canoes, the group will enjoy dinner and the sunset. The following morning, after a walk through the jungle, you can choose between two rainforest adventures: a tour of the Amazoonico—a rescue center for tapirs, monkeys, snakes, and other animals—or a rafting trip on the Napo River, where you’ll learn to make rafts out of balsa logs. Later in the day, travelers will visit with a Quechua family and learn to make chicha, a popular beverage among locals.

Day 6: The Devil’s Cauldron and Baños Hot Springs

Hotel accommodations in Baños : Hacienda Leito, situated at the foot of the Tungurahua Volcano

On day 6, the group will visit Rio Verde falls, also known as the Devil’s Cauldron. This spectacular waterfall tumbles through verdant, rugged cliffs on its way to the rainforest floor in Puyo, which is considered to be the most important city in Ecuador's Oriente region. The next leg of the trip includes a guided tour of Baños, an idyllic town situated at the base of a volcano. While most famous for its namesake thermal springs and highland scenery, Baños also produces taffy called melcocha.

Days 7–8: Cotopaxi National Park

The final leg of the tour unfolds in this 84,000-acre national reserve that’s home to the world’s highest continuously active volcano, which rises 19,500 feet over the plains in the Andes. A diversity of wildlife inhabits Cotopaxi National Park, including wild horses and the impressive Andean condor. This indigenous, carrion-eating bird can live up to 60 years. Enjoy a farewell dinner at a local restaurant on the last night of the trip.

Afterward, you’ll return to Quito for one night at the Sheraton Quito Hotel before returning home.

Read the Fine Print for important info on travel dates and other restrictions.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How much would it cost to fly from an airport not listed as part of this deal?
There are several alternate gateways available for an additional fee (listed above in the Getaway Report). Please note these rates are subject to availability and rates may vary based on flight availability at the time of booking.

2. Can we extend our trip before or after the promotional dates for the deal?
If you wish to extend your stay, Friendly Planet will gladly arrange a late return at a cost of $100 per person, plus any difference in airfare. To book a late return, just let Friendly Planet know the date you wish to return when you make your reservation.

3. How do I find out if the dates I want to travel are available?
If your requested date is available for purchase on Groupon’s site, it should still be available.

4. What happens if I buy the Groupon and my travel dates are not available?
Technically, you should not be able to buy a Groupon for a sold out date or departure city.

5. Does my child need a Groupon, and can they stay in my room?
Every passenger traveling is required to have one. Triple rooms are not available in Ecuador, so your child may share a room with one other adult.

Vegas-Style Hotel with Saloon and Seven Restaurants

At Valley Forge Casino Resort’s onsite saloon, you’ll find a bucking mechanical bull and bar-goers in cowboy boots strutting their way through line dances beneath colored lights. But this isn’t the Wild West. Instead, the resort sits about 30 minutes outside of Philadelphia and just a short drive from Valley Forge National Historical Park. The hotel’s complimentary shuttle will take you to the King of Prussia Mall, one of the country’s largest shopping centers.

Inside the hotel, a casino brims with 600 slot machines and 50 tables for blackjack, craps, and roulette. Seven onsite restaurants cater to different cravings: there's casual sushi at Asianoodle, and Pacific Prime's upscale atmosphere complements dishes such as maine lobster and loch duart scottish salmon.

King of Prussia, Pennsylvania: Revolutionary History at Every Turn

Colonial and revolutionary history surround King of Prussia, Pennsylvania. George Washington led troops to battle in nearby Germantown, and Valley Forge National Historical Park houses the general’s original headquarters and several soldier monuments. Take a Magical History Tour to follow the Continental Army's path to its 1777–1778 winter camp, or drive 30 minutes east to Chestnut Hill to stroll cobblestone streets dotted with shops and restaurants.

Read the Fine Print for important info on travel dates and other restrictions.

Costa Rican Beachside Retreat Surrounded by Rainforest

Unlike waves at most beaches on the northern coast of Costa Rica, the waves that roll into the horseshoe-shaped bay near Playa Samara are relatively calm and easily navigable. Guests of the waterfront Villas Playa Samara take advantage of this phenomenon on kayaking tours—one of many activities available onsite—that send paddlers skimming over the ocean, just a few feet above colorful coral reefs. Located far from urban bustle and surrounded by 200 acres of tropical jungle, the resort makes a relaxing home base for adventures by land or sea.

Hotel Villas Playa Samara resembles a Spanish-style village with its white stucco walls, red tile roofs, and wild herds of matadors roaming the grounds. Deluxe garden-view rooms, which lie only steps from the beach, come furnished with a private terrace. The onsite Arrecife Restaurante offers inviting island views on its patio, where diners can sample international cuisine and traditional Costa Rican breakfasts consisting of gallo pinto, maple ham, and fiambres.

Samara Beach, Costa Rica: Coral Reefs and Rainforest Adventure

Villas Playa Samara makes it easy to book an array of outdoor adventures in the rainforest or on the crescent-shaped beach. A bookable three-hour kayak trip features a guided sojourn to Isla Chora—a secluded island with shores composed of pink and white sand. Snorkeling through the crystal-clear waters along the bay provides an up-close look at tropical marine life such as hermit crabs.

Mountain-biking and ziplining tours take explorers deep into the jungle. A float down one of the rainforest’s rivers may supply glimpses of howler monkeys and iguanas. Anglers can take to the Pacific on sport-fishing charters, which steer to big-game fishing spots. Even novices stand a fair chance of hooking tuna and mahi-mahi or wrestling with a trophy-size plankton in the boat's fighting chair.

Read the Fine Print for important info on travel dates and other restrictions.

Enjoy All-Inclusive Meals and Drinks at Gourmet Restaurants at 4.5-Star Hotel on Playa del Carmen

Included in this gourmet-inclusive vacation package:

• Round-trip airfare from IAH, FLL, ORD, BWI, DFW, ATL, BOS, DEN, JFK, and LAX
• Five-night stay in a one-bedroom suite at the 4.5-star Azul Fives Hotel
• All meals at any restaurant, including gourmet cuisine
• All domestic and international alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages
• Welcome glass of sparkling wine
• 24-hour room service
• Fitness center, snorkeling equipment, and use of kids’ club (for 4- to 12-year-olds) which includes supervised interactive activities, games, and toys.
• Concierge and vacation-planning services
• All taxes and gratuities
• Daily and special nightly entertainment
• $200 resort credit per room, valid toward spa treatments, romantic dinners, internet access, and more
• Use of sea kayaks and other non-motorized watersports equipment.

You can lounge on coral-fringed beaches, explore Mayan ruins, and snorkel in an underground cenote pool in and around Playa del Carmen, located on the east coast of Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula on the glittering Riviera Maya. You’re set up to do any of these activities at Azul Fives Hotel, which sits right on Playa del Carmen’s beaches, It’s just a short drive from downtown's trendy nightclubs and restaurants, as well as the family-friendly Xcaret Eco Park, which features its own cenotes, butterfly pavilion, and orchid museum.

Your gourmet-inclusive stay at Azul Fives hotel includes unlimited meals at any of the many on-site restaurants. Each serves up gourmet cuisine with international influences. Mediterranean cuisine is the specialty at Sea Olive, where you can dine amid ocean views on the outdoor terrace. You can also get striking views from Flavours, whose dining room is surrounded by floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking a cenote.

Since the property is steps from the beach, you'll have easy access to snorkeling gear, paddleboats, and kayaks. There are also three pools, which feature swim-up bars that serve refreshing tropical cocktails.

After dark, crowds migrate from the beaches to dance to live music at the on-site club, Zky Bar. Meanwhile, the 15,000-square foot Vassa Spa is nestled in a fragrant mangrove forest. Stop in to indulge in natural treatments include green tea-infused facials, flower petal baths, and shiatsu-thai massages.

Playa del Carmen, Mexico: Trendy Beach Area and Diving Destination

Just across the sea from the island of Cozumel, Playa del Carmen has been called "the hippest city in all of the Yucatán Peninsula" by Lonely Planet. The laid-back beach bars and cafés have a way of converting vacationers into expats, but Playa's most compelling draw might be its cenotes—cavernous sinkholes filled with turquoise pools. The water in the cenotes is crystal clear, particularly at the lily-pad-dotted Xlacah cenote, where you can snorkel among schools of colorful fish.

To the south, you'll find preserved ruins of pre-Columbian cities. Tulum's crumbling temples are situated above a dramatic ocean bluff, and Coba's enormous pyramid rises between two lagoons. For a fun day trip, hop aboard the ferry to Cozumel, which docks about 8 miles from the hotel at the pier east of Calle 1. There are about a dozen dive shops on Cozumel, and they offer trips offshore to the reefs that Jacques Cousteau declared some of the world's most beautiful.

Read the Fine Print for important info on travel dates and other restrictions.

Historic Inn Surrounded by Napa Valley Wineries

The red-brick warehouse and old-fashioned mill that house the Napa River Inn have stood for more than 125 years. Originally built in 1884, the buildings once stored fertilizer and other supplies for local vineyards. Today, the mill is a registered historic landmark surrounded by restaurants, shops, and, of course, a wine bar featuring live jazz and selections from local vintners.

The inn hosts a nightly tasting of Napa wines that you can participate in with this getaway. You’ll get a bottle of wine to sip in your room, too. For even more wine-country fun, ask the concierge for info on the 18 tasting rooms within walking distance. You can also go on historic walking tours and enjoy live musical performances at the Napa Valley Opera House.

After a day spent exploring Napa, head back to your executive room to sit on a private balcony overlooking the Napa River or relax by your own fireplace. You’ll get a complimentary California breakfast delivered to your room each morning from Sweetie Pies, a bakery that has been featured on the Rachael Ray Show. This deal includes an option for a $50 credit at the spa at the Napa River Inn, where massages start at $50 and a signature facial ($70) includes exfoliation and treatment serums.

Napa, California: Sprawling Vineyards and Farm-to-Table Dining

Located about a one-hour drive north of San Francisco, Napa Valley—a region that runs from Napa in the south to Calistoga in the north—is California's capital of all things grape. The valley's rolling hills are dotted with more than 400 family-owned vineyards, where oak barrels age vintage nectars and visitors are invited to stop, taste, sniff, and swirl private-label wines. Vineyards range from St. Helena’s popular Quintessa estate, a 280-acre property specializing in cabernet sauvignon, to lesser-known wineries such as Heibel Ranch Vineyards, which you can tour on the back of a 1963 Jeep. Although some wineries welcome drop-by tastings, your best bet is to make appointments ahead of time.

The valley's culinary scene has also risen to prominence, with chefs such as Thomas Keller spearheading a haute cuisine movement. The charming main streets of Yountville and St. Helena are studded with gourmet restaurants praised for their sustainable practices and fresh, farm-to-table cuisine. If you’re tired of sipping wine all day, grab a wheat beer or a pale ale at one of the dozens of local breweries.

Read the Fine Print for important info on travel dates and other restrictions.

Hotel at a Glance: Sea Splash Resort

Sea Splash Resort's thatched-roof bungalows are tucked amid a dense green tangle of palm fronds and tropical flowers, with the Caribbean Sea just a few steps away. The secluded seaside setting brings to mind a far-off desert island. Vacationers come here to indulge in exotic cocktails and soak up the seemingly endless sunshine. It's a great place to get a feel for Jamaican culture, too. The onsite restaurant serves an array of local dishes for you to enjoy indoors or alfresco.

• Grab a bite: At Norma's Restaurant, the seasonal menu spotlights recipes from Caribbean food guru Norma Shirley. Try the jerk penne pasta, callaloo, or grilled red snapper. Diners can sit on an outdoor deck that overlooks Seven Mile Beach.

• Get your feet wet: The resort is footsteps from Seven Mile Beach and features an outdoor jacuzzi and a shaded outdoor pool.

• Natural beauty: Sea Splash commits itself to preserving Negril's natural beauty, earning recognition for its eco-friendly initiatives in energy and water conservation. The onsite restaurant also pitches in by using locally sourced ingredients whenever possible.

• Discover Negril: Since the resort is so close to Seven Mile Beach, it's easy to indulge in water recreation. Sport fishing, snorkeling, and surfing are among the more popular pursuits.

• Rest and relaxation: Natural wood accents and warm golden hues give the guest rooms a beachy feel. All rooms feature cable TV, and the one-bedroom suites have private balconies where guests may take in views of the sea and gardens.

Negril, Jamaica: Laid-Back Beach Town with Picturesque Sunsets, Snorkeling, and Cliff Diving

Located on Jamaica’s western coast, Negril is known for its white-sand beaches, dramatic rugged cliffs, and coral reefs lying just offshore in the Caribbean. Its underwater beauty makes the town a popular spot for scuba diving and snorkeling at Negril Marine Park, and anglers have found the sea filled with blue marlin, wahoo, and mahi-mahi. The city has a front-row seat to some of the world’s most beautiful sunsets, and people often climb to the top of waterfront cliffs just to watch. At Rick’s Cafe, which is listed in the book 1,000 Places To See Before You Die, groups congregate every night to watch the sun dip below the horizon; some brave adventurers even leap off the 35-foot cliffs into the water.

Often called "the capital of casual," Negril is best defined by its laid-back vibe, from the slow and steady rhythm of the indigenous reggae music to its unofficial uniform—swimsuits and flip-flops. Running along the town is Seven Mile Beach, a stretch of powdery, white sand coastline that earned a spot on Frommer’s Best Beaches in the Caribbean list. The town center comprises a shopping mall and a craft market where visitors can pick up locally produced goods.

Farther inland, the mountainous terrain harbors several eco-tourism attractions including hiking, ziplining, and waterfall tours. Take a 60- to 90-minute drive east to reach the cascading YS Falls or Mayfield Falls, where you can wade in 21 natural pools shaded by exotic tropical flowers and ferns. Or stay close to Negril by visiting the Royal Palm Reserve, where 300 acres of swamp forests and wetlands shelter more than 300 types of birds, butterflies, and abandoned Rubik's cubes.

Read the Fine Print for important info on travel dates and other restrictions.

Top Reasons to Stay at the All-Inclusive Grand Paradise Playa Dorada

• The all-inclusive resort sits on a pristine stretch of beachfront in Playa Dorada. The package includes snorkeling, kayaking, windsurfing, and other nonmotorized watersports.
• The resort has five bars and three restaurants, providing plenty of culinary variety. Visit Edens Restaurant for savory barbecue, or Michelangelo Restaurant for authentic Italian eats.
• Superior garden- and ocean-view guest rooms feature flat-screen TVs and balconies that overlook the resort’s lush gardens or the ocean.
• Kids can play in the outdoor kiddie pool and adults can take dips in the outdoor pool and jacuzzi.
• Other recreational activities include volleyball, tennis, and horseback riding (additional fee).
• The resort is only a 15-minute drive outside of Puerto Plata, where you can ride its famous cable car up Mount Isabel de Torres and take in the scenic views from the top.
• Golfers will be steps away from the Playa Dorada Golf Course, designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr.

Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic: Waterfalls, Beaches, and Centuries-Old Historical Sites

Situated on the northern coast of the Dominican Republic, Puerto Plata is best known for its sun-kissed beaches. But the province has several breathtaking geographical features inland as well. Damajagua is a natural water park of sorts—it features 27 waterfalls flowing from limestone rock formations. Tour guides lead groups through the falls, and you can swim and occasionally slide down the natural water slides.

You can get an aerial view of Puerto Plata and the Caribbean Sea on a teleférico, or cable car. One of them climbs 2,565 feet to the apex of Mount Isabel de Torres, which is crowned with blooming botanical gardens and a replica of Rio de Janeiro's massive Christ the Redeemer statue. It's also worth it to take a scenic drive to Parque Histórico La Isabela, where you'll find the remains of a church as well as ruins of a colonial village where Columbus routinely woke his neighbors by blasting the Santa Maria's foghorn.

Read the Fine Print for important info on travel dates and other restrictions.

AAA Four Diamond Hotel with Acclaimed Restaurant and Sweeping River Views

The Mississippi River has provided inspiration for countless blues songs, and Memphis, Tennessee, is a veritable breeding ground for iconic blues musicians. It’s no coincidence, then, that the two converge; downtown Memphis perches over a Mississippi River bluff on the city’s west side. From the rooftop terrace at the award-winning Madison Hotel, you can survey a huge swath of the largest river in North America as it bends around Memphis, and maybe even soak up a little inspiration of your own.

Honey-jalapeño-butter corn bread, rigatoni pasta with chorizo ragu, and deep fried oreo cookies and cream are signature dishes at the hotel’s award-winning eighty3 restaurant. Eighty3 serves a weekend brunch and features a weekday happy hour from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. with discounted cocktails and bites. Visitors can also enjoy the Twilight Sky Terrace, a rooftop lounge available during the four phases of the day: dawn, day, dusk, and dark. Twilight Sky Terrace offers breathtaking views of the Memphis skyline while customers enjoy drinks and small plates form the kitchen. Elsewhere in the jazz-themed hotel, you’ll find an indoor lap pool and a fully equipped fitness center.

Deluxe king rooms feature sweeping views of the city or river, and each is outfitted with a 32-inch flat-screen TV and imported Italian linens. Here, you can nosh on gourmet truffles and sip the wine included with this getaway.

Memphis, Tennessee: Blues, Barbecue, and Beale Street

Perhaps nothing better represents the history of Memphis than the Main Street Trolley, the city’s faithfully restored public transportation system. Solid brass seats, hand-carved mahogany corbels, and antique lighting fixtures on trolley cars recall the city’s glamorous past, and a 2.5-mile route—with near-constant views of the river—travels through downtown, stopping off at the River City’s best modern attractions. Notable trolley stops include the historic Pinch District, the National Civil Rights Museum, and Beale Street, a tourist destination lined with blues clubs and barbecue restaurants.

No trip to Memphis would be complete without a full plate of Memphis-style barbecue. First slow-cooked in a pit, the iconic ribs are served “wet”—brushed with tangy sauce before, during, and after cooking, or “dry”—rubbed in spices and eaten without sauce. Of late, Memphis has embraced the national food-truck trend, and some of the city’s best restaurants can now be enjoyed on the go.

B. B. King, Elvis Presley, and Muddy Waters are just some of the many musicians who made their names in Memphis blues clubs. Excellent live music can still be heard nightly on Beale Street, both on the street itself and inside its many clubs. For soul music, visit the Stax Museum of American Soul Music—it resides in the former location of Stax Records, where artists such as Isaac Hayes, Otis Redding, and Sam & Dave once recorded.

Read the Fine Print for important info on travel dates and other restrictions.

Lakefront Spa Resort with Hunting, Fishing, and Farms

At Flat Creek Lodge, quail, white-tailed deer, and boar share a woodland habitat, and largemouth bass and bluegill flit beneath the surface in spring-fed lakes. The property—recently featured on Georgia Traveler—also includes a mushroom farm, a berry orchard, and a herd of jersey dairy cows that contributes to award-winning cheeses. In many ways, guests at Flat Creek Lodge live off the land, but staying here hardly means roughing it: the eco-conscious resort features a spa, fine dining, and leisure pursuits such as sporting clay shooting.

Flat Creek Lodge has earned tons of press, with praise heaped on the dairy farm's artisanal cheeses, which include a cocoa-laced cheddar and an Irish-style cheese blended in oatmeal stout. The Dining Room's seasonal menu features onsite harvests in dishes such as roasted chicken with oyster mushrooms and pork chops in an apricot-cider reduction.

After a full day of exploring the nearly 2,000-acre grounds, you can unwind in a standard lodge room. Local wildlife artwork hangs from rustic pine-plank walls, and a shared veranda overlooks the lake. For a bit more relaxation, hit the spa to surrender to a deep-tissue massage or a session in the cedar-lined sauna. The following morning, you can start the day off right with a hearty southern breakfast of bacon, eggs, and grits.

Eastern Georgia: Hunting and State Parks

Although the resort is within 100 miles of Augusta and Savannah, there's so much to do at Flat Creek Lodge that you may not want to leave. In addition to bird and deer hunts, you can practice your shot in the sporting clay-shooting range or do battle on the paintball course, which features commando-style trenches and forts. There's also a pair of state parks within an hour's drive: George L. Smith, famous for its 1880 gristmill; and Magnolia Springs, home to turtles, alligators, and escaped mascots.

Read the Fine Print for important info on travel dates and other restrictions.

Tour of Venice, Florence, and Rome with Guided City Tours

Included in all options:

• Round-trip airfare from New York (JFK), (LGA), or Newark (EWR)
• Two-night stay at 4-star Grand Hotel Principe, 4-star Amadeus Hotel, or 4-star Hotel Carlton & Grand Canal in Venice, depending on availability
• Two-night stay at 4-star Grand Hotel Mediterraneo, or 4-star Grand Hotel Adriatico in Florence, depending on availability
• Two-night stay at 4-star Grand Hotel Palatino in Rome
• Daily breakfast buffet
• All transfers
• Guided city tours with an English-speaking guide
• City tours are taken in a modern air-conditioned motor coach.

On this eight-day tour of Italy, you’ll split time between three of the world’s most enchanting cities: Venice, Florence, and Rome. A guide will escort you to each city’s most-famous attractions, including Michelangelo’s David and the Sistine Chapel, and lead optional excursions along the way. The hotels included in this tour are all centrally located, so you can explore the cities on your own as well.

We’ve listed some of our favorite highlights below. Click here to see the full itinerary and trip details.

Days 1–3: Venice

Accommodations: 4-star Grand Hotel Principe, 4-star Amadeus Hotel, or 4-star Hotel Carlton & Grand Canal, depending on availability.

After arriving in Venice on Day 2, guests will have the afternoon to explore the city at their leisure. You may want to use this time to explore off-the-beaten destinations, such as a traditional fish market.

The first guided tour kicks off on the morning of Day 3 with a boat ride to the Island of Murano. Artists have been making glass here since the late 13th century—today that glass is world famous for its colorful, transparent quality. A walking tour back in the city visits a number of attractions, including Doge Palace. Inside this Gothic masterpiece, the walls and ceilings are covered with frescoes by artists such as Titian and Tintoretto, who were famous for their dramatic use of light.

Days 4–5: Pisa, Florence

Accommodations: 4-star Grand Hotel Mediterraneo, or 4-star Grand Hotel Adriatico, depending on availability

The tour heads south to Florence on Day 4 via a scenic drive through Tuscany. Along the way, you’ll stop at a local Tuscan farm for a wine tasting, and visit the Leaning Tower of Pisa.

Travel + Leisure named Florence the world’s second best city in 2012, calling the capital of the Renaissance “livelier than ever.” Galleries such as the Academia of Fine Arts house masterpieces by Michelangelo, Botticelli, and da Vinci, alongside trendy wine bars and designer boutiques. You’ll see the Florence Cathedral (a.k.a. “The Duomo”) and Michelangelo’s David on Day 5. Consider an optional five-course dinner (extra fee) that night includes homemade pasta and unlimited wine.

Days 6–8: Assisi, Rome

Accommodations: 4-star Grand Hotel Palatino in Rome

Before making its final stop in Rome, the tour will head to Assisi, a hillside town in Italy’s Umbria region famous for The Basilica of Saint Francis. The church’s interior is covered in frescos by great Renaissance painter Giotto, including the 28 scenes of the Life of St. Francis that Frommer’s says “moves the devout to tears and art lovers to fits of near-religious ecstasy.”

A walking tour of Rome on Day 7 begins at the Vatican Museums in Saint Peter’s Square. Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel, and sculptures by Gian Lorenzo Bernini are among the masterpieces you’ll see here.

You’ll have the rest of the day to explore the city on your own. For an authentic Roman experience, snack on kosher artichokes in the Roman Ghetto, or enjoy a picnic in the Villa Borghese.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How much would it cost to fly from an airport not listed as part of this deal?
The supplemental fee is subject to departure date and availability at the time of booking. For information regarding a specific departure date, please call (800) 682-3333 to speak with a Gate 1 Travel Reservation Specialist.

2. Can we extend our trip before or after the promotional dates for the deal?
Yes, you may extend your trip for a supplemental fee at the time of booking.

3. How do I find out if the dates I want to travel are available?
The dates available are listed on each option.

4. What happens if I buy the Groupon and my travel dates are not available?
You can either choose another date or be refunded by Groupon. We suggest calling Gate 1 Travel to redeem your vouchers ASAP so that you do not run into this problem.

5. Does my child need a Groupon, and can they stay in my room?
Yes, each person traveling (including children) needs to purchase a voucher. Your child may stay in your room, however there are limits as to how many people per room. Triples are available on this tour.

24-Hour Casino with 800 Slot Machines

Winnicus Maximus, Double The Devil, and Aztec Temple are just some of Grand Lake Casino’s 800 exotically named slot machines and table games. All sit inside the 45,000-square-foot gaming-and-entertainment center, which is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. A free shuttle runs between the casino and the lodge, located 2 miles apart.

Chefs at the onsite The EndZone Restaurant & Bar prepare crispy waffles each morning and grill perfectly seasoned kansas city strip steaks each night. Turner and Eastman, the house band, entertains crowds every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday night. Each option with this Getaway includes dining and gaming credits; options two and three also come with two rounds of golf at Patricia Island Estates & Golf Club, an 18-hole championship course set along the banks of the lake, roughly 10 miles west of the lodge. After a day at the casino or on the greens, return to the lodge and relax in a guest room outfitted with hardwood floors, a flat-screen TV, and Serta mattresses.

Grove, Oklahoma: Golf and Bass Fishing on Grand Lake o’ the Cherokees

Located in the northeast corner of Oklahoma in the foothills of the Ozark Mountains, Grand Lake Casino is just one mile from scenic Grand Lake o’ the Cherokees. The lake attracts an array of annual visitors who come for premier bass fishing, sailing, and to stare at their own reflections. Eight miles south, the town of Grove boasts a quaint downtown with additional shopping and dining options. Just west of Grove is where you’ll find Patricia Island Estates & Golf Club.

Read the Fine Print for important info on travel dates and other restrictions.

Newly Renovated Rooms near University of New Mexico Campus

In the 1920s and ’30s, the newly built Route 66 helped transform Albuquerque from a sleepy resort town into a sprawling desert oasis. Today, Route 66 stills attracts out-of-towners, who drive through the historical Nob Hill District and past the 1927 KiMo Theater, one of the best examples of Pueblo Deco architecture. Just 2 miles from this iconic highway, within walking distance of museums, shopping, and the University of New Mexico, is the newly renovated Crowne Plaza Albuquerque.

Each updated standard room has a private balcony looking out over the city. A subtle desert theme incorporates terra-cotta accents and earth-toned decor. Relax with a dip in the Olympic-size outdoor pool or with a meal at one of the three onsite restaurants. The Ranchers Club of New Mexico is the place to go for ambiance—the dining room is decorated with a giant buffalo head, and a chandelier is made from cattle horns and saddles donated from New Mexican ranchers. The eatery serves bison rib-eye steaks, filet mignon, and pan-seared lamb chops alongside an extensive list of wines, ports, and cognacs.

Albuquerque, New Mexico: Pedestrian-Friendly Town with New Mexico’s Flagship University

Located about 65 miles southwest of Santa Fe, Albuquerque is neatly divided by the Rio Grande. On the river’s east side is the Crowne Plaza hotel; its proximity to the University of New Mexico makes a stroll amid the campus’s Pueblo Revival buildings a must. To delve into the city’s past, wander the pedestrian-friendly streets of Historic Old Town Albuquerque, home to more than 150 stores and art galleries as well as the iconic 18th-century San Felipe de Neri Parish.

On the north side of town, the 360-acre Balloon Fiesta Park is a popular site for launching hot-air balloons, which use the 47-acre Northern Field as a bird’s-eye landmark. All year round, you can see the colorful balloons rising high into the air, whether you’re practicing golf shots on the park's course or hiking along its neatly gardened trails.

Read the Fine Print for important info on travel dates and other restrictions.

Private Island Resort with Cabanas

You won’t find any towering high-rises, chain restaurants, or crowded beaches on the tiny isle of Hatchet Caye, located 18 miles off the coast of Belize. That’s because the only development on the kidney-bean-shaped island is Hatchet Caye Resort. A limited number of guests are permitted to stay in the resort’s handful of cabanas at any one time, ensuring that you’ll have stretches of secluded shoreline to explore while you’re there. These breezy-and-modern duplex cabanas are equipped with wicker and wooden furniture and massive windows looking out on palm trees and the sea.

Thanks to its location along the Mesoamerican reef—the world’s second-longest reef—Hatchet Caye boasts world-class snorkeling and scuba-diving opportunities. It’s worth borrowing some gear to embark on a nighttime snorkeling adventure. The pier is well lit, attracting fish, rays, squid, and turtles. During the day, you can take a dip in the resort’s freshwater pool or play a game of volleyball on the grass court. You can also rent paddleboats, Hobie Cats, and kayaks for free.

The plan grants you access to the Lionfish Grill for breakfast, lunch, and dinner served in an open-air pavilion. Dig into island fare, including coconut shrimp, Caribbean spiny lobster, lionfish tacos, and empanadas. Bartenders serve juices, soft drinks, cocktails, beers, and wine (not included with this Groupon).

Hatchet Caye, Belize: World-Class Snorkeling amid Turtles, Stingrays, and Nurse Sharks

A 10-minute boat ride from Hatchet Caye Resort brings you to the Turtle Spot—so named because of the loggerhead turtles that frequently congregate here (stingrays and nurse sharks have been known to drop by, too). Historically, marine life flocked to this site to feed on leftovers from local fishermen who would clean their catches in the area. Today, many sea creatures still mosey over when they hear a boat. One snorkel tour per person is included with your stay.

Read the Fine Print for important info on travel dates and other restrictions.

Hotel at a Glance: Arrow Park Lake and Lodge

Built in the quiet woodlands of Monroe more than a century ago, Arrow Park Lake and Lodge's main building still has the appeal of a quiet country home and the scenery is just as pristine. The resort centers on Arrow Lake, giving guests plenty of opportunities to fish, swim, and go boating.

• Claim to fame: During the 1960s, the park was a haven for artists and musicians—folk singer Pete Seeger passed through on several occasions.
• Fun on the water: This deal includes beach passes to Arrow Lake, along with complimentary access to a non-motorized boat.
• Take a hike: Trails pass through dense forests inhabited by local wildlife. You can also take a stroll through a sculpture garden with busts of famous poets, including Walt Whitman and Alexander Pushkin.
• Grab a bite: Lunch and dinner is available at the café; a shaded picnic table makes a nice spot for eating outdoors. There's also a concession stand on the beach.
• Rest and relaxation: Set in an elegant, Italianate building with arched doorways and natural rock accents, the comfy suites are outfitted with fireplaces and feature views of the lake.

Monroe, New York: Historic Cheese Factories, Taverns, and Racetracks

Monroe, New York, sits near the New Jersey border, roughly an hour northwest of Manhattan's hustle and bustle. Picturesque lakes and woodlands surround the village, which has been home to several cheese factories over the last 150 years. In fact, Monroe is the birthplace of Velveeta (and you can still see the building where it was made). Each September, the town hosts a festival that pays homage to all things cheese—there’s a parade, wine pairings, and stands selling all kinds of cheeses and cheesecakes.

Nearby Central Valley boasts the Woodbury Common Premium Outlets, while throughout Monroe you’ll find several historic buildings reflecting its milling and mining roots. Drive through town to see old grist mills, rail stations, and taverns. Harness racing had a big presence here at the turn of the century. Today, you can still watch the sport at the Goshen Historic Track.

Read the Fine Print for important info on travel dates and other restrictions.

Horseback Riding, Mountain Views, and Private Cabins on 2,000-Acre Dude Ranch

Pisgah View Ranch is set up like a dude ranch in the Old West: you might see blazing campfires, people learning how to rope and ride, or cowboy action shooting—a competition in which participants typically dress in period costume and wield old-fashioned firearms. But the ranch is miles from the Western wilderness, a short drive from Asheville, North Carolina. It’s set on 2,000 acres amid the Blue Ridge Mountains and one of the first national forests in the eastern United States, Pisgah National Forest.

The Cogburn family has owned this property for more than two centuries, and the homey cabins have a vintage, rustic feel to them, like something from the pages of Little House on the Prairie. Some have log exteriors and some are A-frame buildings. Select cabins are outfitted with fireplaces, whirlpool tubs, or covered porches that overlook the lake.

You can ride horseback on the trails here with Mount Pisgah and Indian Spring Mountain as your backdrop. Paths wind through the woods past waterfalls and streams, occasionally showcasing local wildlife. Other outdoor activities include casting out for bass, bluegill, and lily pads at the tranquil fishpond. Those who stay and do not have Groupon for horseback riding may do so for $40 per person per hour with 24-hours advance notice. Riders must be 6 or older, and there is a 250 pound weight limit.

Southern hospitality makes guests feel right at home on the ranch. Each day, you can savor home-cooked breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and on Saturdays, you can eat barbecue and corn on the cob at the ranch's weekly cookout. Throughout the day, lemonade, sweet tea, and baked goodies are always on hand.

Candler, North Carolina: Outdoorsy Activities in Blue Ridge Mountains Close to Downtown Asheville

The small, unincorporated area of Candler, North Carolina, sits in the southwest corner of the state, near Pisgah National Forest and Asheville. Pisgah National Forest is made up of more than half a million acres, and you can mountain bike or ride horseback on hiking trails through tree-lined mountains.

Voted the 1 of the 10 Most Beautiful Places in America by Good Morning America in 2011, nearby Asheville is a hodgepodge of artsy shops and historical neighborhoods. Biltmore Village is perhaps the best example of this unique character: it features red-brick sidewalks, wrought-iron street lamps, and Victorian-era buildings that now house antiques stores and specialty shops. Don't miss the Biltmore Estate, the former home of multimillionaire George Vanderbilt, which features a staggering mansion and its own winery on 8,000 acres.

It's worth it to stop by West Asheville, too, where you can stock up on vintage duds at one of the area's colorful resale shops, browse eclectic art at the galleries, or sample organic produce at the weekly farmers' market.

Read the Fine Print for important info on travel dates and other restrictions.

Mediterranean-Style Resort with Free Shuttle to the Las Vegas Strip

In the neighborhoods surrounding Lake Las Vegas, colorful stucco villas and palm trees line cobblestone streets with names such as Rue Du Rivoli and Strada Di Villaggio. The entire area feels like a Mediterranean village—complete with pedestrian-only piazzas that lead to cafés, international restaurants, and boutiques with hand-blown glassware—even though it’s actually located about a half hour from Las Vegas, in southern Nevada. Just like in Venice, you can ride in a gondola on the manmade Lake Las Vegas. Aston MonteLago Village Resort sits in the midst of this Mediterranean charm, where it overlooks the lake’s sparkling waters and the craggy desert hills beyond.

Steps away from the resort, Casino MonteLago is located in the western part of Lake Las Vegas. The casino has a number of slot machines, electronic table games, and genie lamps that take quarters; you can try your luck here with the casino credit included in this Getaway. To head to the big city, hop on the resort’s free shuttle to the Las Vegas Strip.

In the evening, retire to your Luna di Lusso resort-view studio or one-bedroom suite. Each has a private, furnished balcony that looks out over the resort as well as a small kitchen or kitchenette.

Henderson, Nevada: Thriving Suburb Close to the Vegas Strip

A Las Vegas suburb, Henderson is conveniently close to the Strip but also far enough away to be an escape from the bustle. Livability.com named it a top family vacation destination, highlighting the city’s culture scene, which includes area art galleries and outdoor symphony concerts. At the Clark County Museum, visitors can trace southern Nevada’s history via a timeline exhibit. The museum campus also has several historic buildings—including a decades-old barn and a wedding chapel—as well as a walk-in mining trail.

You’ll find the Hoover Dam, one of America’s Seven Modern Civil Engineering Wonders, about 20 miles northwest of town. Take the guided tour if you want to learn more about the dam’s history and get a look at the inner passageways. Nearby Lake Mead hosts all sorts of watersports, including kayaking and fishing, but the bulk of the lake’s recreation area consists of mountains and valley with trails for hiking.

Henderson’s shopping scene is another draw: the town features one of the most popular malls off the Strip, Galleria at Sunset. The two-level shopping center houses more than 140 shops and five department stores. But Galleria really stands out because of its Southwestern-themed decor, including fountains, palm trees, and a topiary of animals in the food court. Alternatively, The District at Green Valley Ranch offers an outdoor shopping experience with a pedestrian-friendly promenade that’s lined with boutiques and restaurants. There are also ample opportunities to relax here with a lushly landscaped central park and a grassy courtyard where musicians play live on Friday and Saturday nights from May through October.

Read the Fine Print for important info on travel dates and other restrictions.

All-Inclusive Montego Bay Resort with Water Park

When Columbus first arrived in Montego Bay, he dubbed the Caribbean inlet "El Golfo de Buen Tiempo," which means "the gulf of good weather." He may have landed on the wrong continent, but he was spot on about the weather. Today, tourists head to Montego Bay for the consistently sunny climate and pleasant temperatures hovering around 85 degrees. Secluded from Montego Bay's more crowded beaches, Sunset Beach Resort & Spa is perched on a private peninsula overlooking the Caribbean. From bay- and ocean-view guest rooms, you can take in views of the water and relax on the mahogany furniture.

During your all-inclusive stay, you'll have access to an eclectic set of dining options, including La Bella Vita for fine Italian fare and Byron's for Caribbean fusion amid traditional island music. At night, Sunset Beach comes alive with casino games, cocktails on the house, and late-night dancing.

Though there's plenty of space to take it easy by the pool or beach, the resort boasts a number of lively activities. It may take a day just to explore all the things to do on the Caribbean, ranging from snorkeling above a coral reef to steering a paddleboat along the coast. Set back from the beach, the resort has a pirate-themed water park where zigzaggy slides careen in and out of castle turrets and through the hull of a pirate ship. Adults may find it more soothing to simply unwind in the giant jacuzzi or one of three swimming pools. For a land-based diversion, you can attempt to beat Ben Hogan's record at the resort's miniature-golf course.

Montego Bay, Jamaica: Coastal City with Tropical Jungles and Vibrant Markets

Situated on Jamaica's northwest coast, Montego Bay draws vacationers year-round with its temperate climate, clear waters, and postcard-perfect beaches. Just a short ways inland, freshwater rivers such as the Martha Brae cut through expanses of jungle and forested mountains, making for scenic rafting.

Years ago, Montego Bay was a thriving banana and sugar exporter. You'll find remnants of the city's past at Sam Sharpe Square, where cobblestone streets stretch past grand Georgian architecture and a cast-iron fountain donated by a former banana baron. The city’s dynamic "Hip Strip" buzzes with duty-free boutiques and lively flea markets hawking brightly colored textiles, carved wooden sculptures, and natural healing oils that double as cassette-tape lubricant.

Read the Fine Print for important info on travel dates and other restrictions.

Mountain Escape in Comfy Cabins

Big Bear Lake’s glossy lake glistens 6,750 feet above sea level, and the surrounding San Bernardino Mountains boast 8,000-foot peaks that are lined with dozens of trails. And Big Bear Vacations' collection of more than 300 cabins is well positioned to take advantage of all the area’s natural bounty.

Though the cabin properties included in this deal vary, many have rustic, countrified furnishings, easy access to area activities, and views of Big Bear Lake. Additional features may include stone fireplaces, jetted tubs, and kitchens. Click here to see the Big Bear Vacations listings—note that properties valid for this deal are listed here.

This deal also includes a two-hour kayak rental and a Scenic Sky Chair ride for two. The rides take people up to an elevation of 8,200 feet, high above the San Bernardino National Forest.

Big Bear Lake, California: Outdoorsy Resort Community in the Foothills of the Sierra Nevada

Big Bear Lake is situated nearly 7,000 feet above sea level and surrounded by the San Bernardino National Forest and the snowy peaks of the San Bernardino Mountains. Los Angeles is less than 100 miles to the west, which is probably why Big Bear Valley has served as a backdrop for so many films and TV shows, including The Parent Trap, Doctor Dolittle, and Bonanza.

The lake is a popular destination for boating, fishing, and swimming during the warm months. You’ll find miles of hiking and mountain-biking trails in the surrounding forest. The 2-mile Castle Rock Trail weaves through groves of pine and cedar trees and past a waterfall before rewarding trekkers with a panoramic view of the water. But Big Bear isn’t entirely rustic—head to the village, located on the south shore, for restaurants, shopping, an arcade, a bowling alley, and a visitors' center.

True to its name, the area once supported a thriving grizzly bear population. Though that’s no longer the case, you still might see bald eagles, mule deer, coyotes, gray foxes, and even the occasional bobcat or black bear. For a guaranteed glimpse of wildlife, visit the Big Bear Alpine Zoo at Moonridge, a rehabilitation facility for injured and orphaned mountain lions, grizzly bears, wolves, and other animals.

Read the Fine Print for important info on travel dates and other restrictions.

Adults-Only, LGBT-Friendly All-Inclusive Resort in Cancún

Oasis Sens is an adults-only, LGBT-friendly, all-inclusive resort in Cancún’s popular Hotel Zone. During the day, you can relax on a half-mile stretch of beach, or sip cocktails by one of three swimming pools. The electrifying nightlife in downtown Cancún is just 10 minutes away.

All-inclusive privileges give you free rein at the resort’s nine restaurants and numerous bars. Stop for breakfast at the Coba international buffet; for the rest of the day, feel free to mix and match meals at the sushi, Italian, and Mexican restaurants. Many eateries have fantastic views of the Caribbean—especially the Mare Beach Club, where lunch and dinner are served in the sand at wicker dining tables and chairs.

The Hotel Zone has an abundance of shopping, dancing, and dining spots, but you can easily stay entertained without leaving the resort. At the Sensoria Spa, skilled therapists administer hot-stone and chocolate massages (all spa services are an extra fee). There’s also an onsite nightclub with dancing, as well as a romantic outdoor lounge that has semiprivate cabanas draped in flowing cloth.

Cancún: Cool White Sands and Mayan Relics

Located on a barrier island shaped like the number seven, Cancún's Hotel Zone juts into the Caribbean Sea at the northeast tip of Mexico's Yucatán Peninsula. With the sea on one side and freshwater lagoons on the other, it's a popular spot for sailing and snorkeling. Although the beaches and barrier reefs are a major draw, the geography is equally enticing further inland, where you can dive into an underground river or take a speedboat through a mangrove jungle.

Cancún pulls in millions of visitors each year, so escaping the crowds and the party atmosphere isn't always easy. But a visit to Playa Delfines offers a chance for sunbathing in relative seclusion. Resorts have yet to encroach upon this stretch of sand, and it's especially popular with surfers.

The stone columns of El Rey Ruins, an ancient Mayan site dating back to the second and third centuries BCE, lie within the city’s Hotel Zone. Believed to be a royal burial ground, the archaeological site is also home to wild iguanas that lounge in the sun and read Tom Clancy novels. For a Mayan-themed daytrip, take a 1.5-hour drive from Cancún down the coast to Tulum, a pre-Columbian walled city located on a bluff overlooking the sea—one of the Yucatán Peninsula's most visited Mayan ruins. The Mayan city of Chichén Itzá, chosen as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World in 2007, is only a 2.5-hour drive away.

Read the Fine Print for important info on travel dates and other restrictions.

Boutique Bed and Breakfast near Shelter Island Beaches

Shelter Island is a 27-square-mile beach sanctuary sandwiched between Long Island’s North and South Forks. It’s one of the most low-key spots in the area, marked by uncrowded beaches and quiet summer nights. There’s not a single traffic light on the island and hardly any cars. Residents prefer to travel most places on foot or by bike, and La Petite Maison embraces this leisurely vibe. Guests receive a complimentary bottle of wine upon arrival, and you’re invited to spend your time here relaxing or playing petanque (a French bocce-ball-like game) out back.

Housed in a clapboard Victorian home, the inn has five individually decorated guest rooms. The king deluxe unit features a private deck, a jacuzzi tub, and a mini bar stocked with complimentary snacks. The inn’s intimate setup makes it easy to socialize with other guests or settle in alone with a bottle of wine. In the morning, head down for a complimentary breakfast of croissants, muffins, and fresh fruit.

La Petite Maison is well placed for exploring the island. Tucked away from the town center, it’s within walking distance of Crescent Beach, a popular swimming spot with dazzling sunset views. You can borrow beach chairs and towels from the front desk, and those who don’t want to walk can hitch rides on the inn’s complimentary shuttle. The immaculately preserved 19th-century homes of Shelter Island Heights are also nearby.

Long Island’s Shelter Island: Small, Secluded Retreat with Victorian Mansions and Wildlife Preserves

Shelter Island can be reached only by ferry, which keeps the crowds to a minimum, even during the summer. While gourmet restaurants, such as Vine Street Café, draw the occasional celebrity (Kelly Ripa, Anderson Cooper, and Bill Clinton have all been spotted here)—Shelter Island still maintains a relaxed, small-town vibe thanks to its quiet beaches, winding country lanes, and Victorian-era homes. For a private afternoon, find a spot on one of the narrow strips of sand along Oak Tree Lane, which runs parallel to Shelter Island Sound.

The Mashomack Preserve stretches across 2,039 acres, covering a third of the island. Within its varied landscapes—oak woodlands, marshes, and freshwater ponds—you'll find harbor seals, hummingbirds, and one of the largest concentrations of nesting ospreys on the East Coast. At boltax.gallery on North Ferry Road, near the center of the island, you can admire cutting-edge work from such contemporary artists as Melina Berkenwald, whose hand-embroidered photographs resemble Impressionist paintings.

Read the Fine Print for important info on travel dates and other restrictions.

All-Inclusive Jamaican Vacation at Beachfront Resort

The northern Jamaican town of Runaway Bay is an island paradise lined with white-sand beaches and almost endless views of the Caribbean Sea. Set right along the bay, Grand Bahia Principe is a great spot to enjoy the town’s tropical setting, along with live entertainment and unlimited meals and alcoholic beverages.

This vacation includes:

• Round-trip airfare from eight departure cities (3- to 4-hour flight time)
• Four or seven nights all-inclusive junior suite superior accommodations at Grand Bahia Principe
• Unlimited meals and snacks, including three a la carte dinners per stay
• Unlimited beverages, including a selection of domestic and international alcoholic drinks, beer, and house wine
• Sun beds and sun shades at pools and beach
• Towel service at the pool and beach
• Access to the onsite gym and stretching classes
• Nonmotorized water sports, including kayaks, catamarans, snorkeling gear, and windsurfers (one hour each, per guest per week)
• One introductory one-hour scuba lesson in the pool
• One hour per stay of tennis court time and bicycle rental
• Entertainment and social activities programs for adults and children
• All hotel taxes and gratuities

Grand Bahia Principe

Without ever leaving the property at Grand Bahia Principe, you can can sing karaoke, shop for local handicrafts, and dance all night to Jamaican ska, a genre of music that blends Calypso and American jazz,. And that’s just in the resort’s entertainment village, known as Pueblo Principe. You can also use the internet here or rent a car to see more of the island.

The resort sits in northern Jamaica on a stretch of white sand just outside Runaway Bay. The beach is the focal point of the experience here, and it’s often less crowded than those other resort towns. Runaway Bay is known for its colorful coral reefs—borrow some snorkeling gear and you can explore the shallow waters of the bay. You can also pull up a lounge chair by one of three lagoon-style pools, which are surrounded by sun terraces and lush, tropical gardens. The pool area boasts both poolside and swim-up bars, and the rest of the resort’s bars are within an easy stroll.

You can get sweeping views of the Caribbean Sea from the buffet-style restaurants onsite. Both serve international dishes for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Guests can also dine at the resort’s a la carte restaurants up to three times per stay; choose from Japanese, steakhouse, and seafood specialties.

Runaway Bay, Jamaica: Quiet Resort Town near Natural Wonders

Runaway Bay is tucked into the northern coast of Jamaica, between Montego Bay and Ocho Rios. The secluded town is one of the island's smallest—Lonely Planet calls it "a one-street village”—and it's noticeably quieter than its tourist-clogged neighbors. But what it lacks in size Runaway Bay makes up in natural attractions. Some of the best underwater sights in the Caribbean can be explored during scuba-diving tours of the coral reef just offshore. And about 4 miles (7 km) west of town, you can explore the limestone vaults and subterranean lakes of the Green Grotto Caves, which were used as a hideout by Spanish die-hards during Jamaica's 18th-century colonization by the English.

A scenic 25-minute drive brings you to one of the island's most popular attractions—Dunn's River Falls. This natural wonder consists of a series of terraced waterfalls cascading from the mountains to the sea like a gigantic flight of stairs. Thousands of travelers visit the site each year, and it even served as a filming location for the first James Bond movie, Dr. No. Today, tour groups frolic at the bottom of the falls or make the 600-foot climb to the top behind local guides.

Read the Fine Print for important info on travel dates and other restrictions.

Bavarian-Style Alpine Inn Nestled in Cascade Range Mountains

Though it lies in the Cascade Range mountains rather than the German Alps, the town of Leavenworth, Washington, looks a lot like a quant Bavarian village complete with beer halls and schnitzel eateries. A-frame roofs line the main drag, giving the town's buildings the appearance of gingerbread cottages. And the town’s bakeries, polka bands, and lederhosen-wearing locals charm visitors year-round. The Obertal Inn reflects Leavenworth’s Bavarian influences, too. Exposed russet beams crisscross white plaster on the inn, with third-story rooms overlooking the Cascades’ monumental slopes.

After checking into your standard king fireplace guest room, you can enjoy a flat-screen tv or venture outdoors, where thanks to Leavenworth's high-altitude vantage point the stars appear extra bright. In the morning, innkeepers Hans and Andrea Mulders serve a continental breakfast buffet in the wood-paneled dining room. Be sure to visit the waffle bar, which is stocked with fresh berry toppings, warm fruit compote, and housemade syrups in flavors such as strawberry ginger.

Leavenworth, Washington: Bavarian-Themed Town with Orchards and Whitewater Rafting

Located about a two-hour drive east of Seattle, Leavenworth draws visitors all year long with an abundance of outdoor activities. In the winter, skiers and snowboarders hit the slopes at nearby Stevens Pass; hiking and rafting take over in the spring, summer, and fall. About 700 miles of trails surround the town, meandering through the Cascade Range and the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest. The Icicle and Wenatchee Rivers run through the area as well, attracting rafters with Class II and III rapids.

As the area’s center for all things Bavarian, Leavenworth is home to German-style bakeries, bars with beer gardens, and several restaurants where you can try kielbasa, bratwurst, ciderkraut, and specialty mustards. The town’s annual Oktoberfest takes place over the course of three weekends, beginning with a Bavarian procession featuring villagers in traditional dirndls and lederhosen.

The warm weather and fertile soil also make the region perfect for growing pears and wine grapes. In the warmer months, fruit stands teem with locally grown cherries, peaches, and apricots. There are also about a dozen vineyards nearby where you can taste varietals from the Columbia Cascade region.

Read the Fine Print for important info on travel dates and other restrictions.

Top Reasons to Visit The Inn and Spa at Parkside

• This elegant Mediterranean-style mansion was originally built in 1936.
• The inn has a prime location in downtown Sacramento, overlooking Southside Park.
• You'll also be within walking distance of Old Sacramento, Midtown, and the Capitol Building.
• Balance and Extravagant spa rooms—the Dream, Lounge, Kiss, Refresh, and Happiness—may feature such amenities as deep jetted jacuzzi tubs, fireplaces, flat-screen TVs, and marble shower fixtures.
• The onsite spa offers a wide range of treatments, from romantic couples massages to facials.
• The inn serves a complimentary two-course breakfast and hosts a nightly social hour with a gourmet-cheese platter and nonalcoholic refreshments.

Old Sacramento, California: Old West–Style Town with Rich Gold-Rush History

During the gold rush, Sacramento—now California's capital city—was alive with activity. Locomotives chugged along the transcontinental railroad, riverboats steamed through the Sacramento River, and miners trekked underground in search of gold. Today, Old Sacramento maintains that rustic, Old West aesthetic. Nineteenth-century buildings line its cobblestone streets, and you can still hitch a ride on a horse-drawn wagon.

Relics of other eras are scattered throughout the city as well—restored locomotives from the Civil War populate the California State Railroad Museum, and antique gold scales and gilded harnesses are on display at the Wells Fargo Museum. Ten feet below the city's wooden sidewalks, you can take an underground tour that explores Old Sacramento's original foundation. It was built before the city streets were elevated as a precaution against rising river waters and grabby river monsters.

Read the Fine Print for important info on travel dates and other restrictions.

Homey Condos near Vail’s Best Attractions

Every summer after the snow melts on Vail Mountain, the famed skiing hot spot plays host to a parade of music and performing-arts festivals. This year’s Bravo! Vail music festival will bring the New York Philharmonic to town, and the Vail International Dance Festival will feature the renowned Pacific Northwest Ballet and a number of premier shows from top choreographers. Between shows, summer visitors enjoy miles of mountain-biking and hiking trails. Vail International Condominiums sits in the middle of it all—a five-minute walk from popular Lionshead restaurants and just seven minutes from the boutiques at Vail Village.

Comfortable two-bedroom condos are decorated in a range of styles. Some feature antler chandeliers and snowshoes hung over fireplaces, and others have granite countertops and huge black-and-white photographs of snowy Vail Mountain. You can see that peak in 3D from a private balcony. Every condo also has a fireplace as well as a fully equipped kitchen.

A little waterfall splashes into the property’s outdoor hot tub, which sits next to a heated swimming pool and barbecue area. Head inside for a workout at the fitness center, which boasts more mountain views and separate steam rooms for men and women.

Vail, Colorado: Mountain Playground in the Heart of the Rockies

Set among dramatic peaks and ponderosa pines, Vail is one of Colorado's most popular sites for mountain recreation. About 5 miles east of the hotel, White River National Forest spreads across clear mountain streams and flowered meadows at the base of the towering Rockies. The 2.3-million-acre woodland is home to wildlife habitats and is a great place to go biking or fishing. The nearby Vail Nature Center hosts fly-fishing tutorials, guided hikes, and photography classes on 7 acres of meadows.

Dwarf evergreens, crocuses, and waterfalls contribute to the meditative vibe at Betty Ford Alpine Gardens, one of the highest-altitude botanical gardens in the world. After a day of outdoor adventures, you can stop at the Colorado Ski & Snowboard Museum to learn about the evolution of winter sports. On Wednesdays and Sundays, historical Vail Village walking tours set out from the museum and wind through the town's streets, which are lined with upscale shops.

Read the Fine Print for important info on travel dates and other restrictions.

Hotel at a Glance: Four-Star The Britt Scripps Inn

Located on historic Bankers Hill, The Britt Scripps Inn is an intimate, award-winning Victorian house-turned-hotel that overlooks downtown San Diego. Antiques and period furnishings decorate this romantic three-story hotel, and a full American breakfast is served every morning.

• Historical architecture: The Britt Scripps Inn is a well-preserved example of the Queen Anne Victorian movement, with its elaborate turrets and gables and hand-carved woodwork. Inside, there’s an original two-story stained-glass window wall and claw-foot bathtubs, along with antique rugs.
• A room with style: Rooms at the inn are styled with a posh, lavish, or classic decor theme, and this deal is valid for a stay in any one of them. For true privacy, check out the carriage house, a small Victorian cottage a few steps away from the main house. It’s decorated with vintage furniture and has a two-person whirlpool tub.
• Walking distance from: San Diego’s historic Gaslamp Quarter, Balboa Park, and the San Diego Zoo.
• Kick back and relax: The inn features a giant wraparound porch where you can take your coffee and lounge in the sun. The landscaped grounds are perfect for strolling.
• Dig in: The menu for the full American breakfast changes daily and includes items such as croissant french toast, blueberry-white-chocolate scones, and artichoke-and-pesto cheese omelets. In the afternoons, wine and hors d’oeuvres are served to guests.

San Diego, California: Historical Attractions and Electric Nightlife in Southern California

San Diego's sunny, comfortably warm weather and 70 miles of coastline have long attracted vacationing out-of-towners, but the city's inland scene is no slouch, either. The Gaslamp Quarter is arguably one of the trendiest listings on the National Register of Historic Places. The area forms both the historic center of town and a hub of San Diego nightlife, with nearly 100 Victorian-era buildings now occupied by high-end boutiques, jewelers, and gourmet restaurants.

During the day, a stroll through iconic Balboa Park takes you past 17 separate museums, as well as the world-famous and much beloved San Diego Zoo. There's also the vibrant Spanish Village Art Center, a living gallery where local artists continuously produce pottery, handblown glass, and oil paintings for sale.

Farther north, in Old Town—site of the first European settlement in California—shops in Mission-style stucco buildings sell colorful wrestling masks, woven baskets, and maracas. Nearby stands The Whaley House Museum, dubbed one of the Most Terrifying Places in America by the Travel Channel. Ghosts of former residents are said to inhabit the rooms, which are filled with Victorian furniture, eerie dolls, and squeegees for ectoplasm cleanup.

Read the Fine Print for important info on travel dates and other restrictions.

Eleven-Day Tour of Croatia and Slovenia's Seaside Cities, Medieval Castles, and Open-Air Markets

This tour includes:

• Round-trip airfare from New York City (airport will depend on availability) to Venice, Italy
• Airline taxes and fuel surcharges
• 2 nights at the Bristol Hotel or Grand Hotel 4 Opatijska Cvijeta in Opatija, Croatia
• 1 night at Radisson Blu Resort in Split, Croatia
• 3 nights at Lacroma Hotel in Dubrovnik, Croatia
• 1 night at Hotel Westin in Zagreb, Croatia
• 2 nights at Park Hotel in Bled, Slovenia
• English-speaking tour manager
• Local tour guides
• Entrance fees per itinerary
• All transfers
• Nine breakfasts
• Two dinners

Following the rocky Adriatic coast, this 11-day tour explores Croatia’s capital city of Zagreb as well as the medieval castles and breathtaking landscape of Slovenia. The package includes round-trip airfare from New York, nightly accommodations, admission to select attractions, an English-speaking guide, and some meals.

We’ve included some highlights from the trip below; check out the full itinerary here.

Days 1–4: Opatija and Zadar

Your first stop in Croatia is Opatija, a centuries-old town overlooking Kvarner Gulf near the Adriatic Sea. A popular resort destination, the area is dotted with cliff-side mansions that are bathed in sunshine most of the year. Next, you’ll travel about three hours south to Zadar. This coastal city has been around for more than 3,000 years and has a wealth of ancient ruins to show for it. Medieval churches can be found throughout the city, where you can also see the ruins of the Roman Forum, which dates back to the 3rd century.

Days 5–7: Split and Dubrovnik

Just south of Zadar is Croatia's largest city, Split. A sightseeing tour will introduce you to some of its iconic architecture, including Diocletian's Palace—a UNESCO World Heritage site that Lonely Planet calls "one of the most imposing Roman ruins in existence." The marble palace and former fortress dazzles with egyptian sphinxes and towering columns.

The next destination, Dubrovnik, is nestled in the foothills of Mount Srdj, along the shores of the Adriatic Sea. You’ll explore historic landmarks such as St. Lawrence Fortress. Nicknamed “Dubrovnik's Gibraltar,” it sits atop an ocean-side cliff just outside the city’s walls. In the heart of Dubrovnik, the Franciscan Monastery houses 14th-century artifacts and one of the world's oldest pharmacies.

Days 8–11: Zagreb, Ljubljana, and Bled Castle

After a jaunt to Zagreb for a walking tour of Croatia's capital city, the final leg of the tour takes place in Slovenia. In Ljubljana, you'll explore a vibrant open-air market before making your way to Bled Castle. Built in medieval times, the castle—among Slovenia's oldest—rises from a nearly 500-foot cliff overlooking the icy waters of Lake Bled. Inside, you’ll find stunning views of the Julian Alps and visit an old wine cellar where you can bottle and label your own wine.

Read the Fine Print for important info on travel dates and other restrictions.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How much would it cost to fly from an airport not listed as part of this deal?
The supplemental fee is subject to departure date and availability at the time of booking. For information regarding a specific departure date, please call (800) 682-3333 to speak with a Gate 1 Travel Reservation Specialist.

2. Can we extend our trip before or after the promotional dates for the deal?
Yes, you may extend your trip for a supplemental fee at the time of booking.

3. How do I find out if the dates I want to travel are available?
The dates available are listed on each option.

4. What happens if I buy the Groupon and my travel dates are not available?
You can either choose another date or be refunded by Groupon. We suggest calling Gate 1 Travel to redeem your vouchers ASAP so that you do not run into this problem.

5. Does my child need a Groupon, and can they stay in my room?
Yes, each person traveling (including children) needs to purchase a voucher. Your child may stay in your room, however there are limits as to how many people per room. Triples are available on this tour.

Hotel at a Glance: The Mark Addy Inn

Tucked into central Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains, The Mark Addy Inn is a boutique B & B housed within a stately Victorian manor. Each of the 10 themed rooms features distinct decorations and amenities. The Schloss standard room brims with Baroque style, while the Tiger Lily is accented with elephant figurines and rattan furniture. At the on-site restaurant, The Fountain Room, chef and innkeeper Rafael Tal concocts gourmet entrees from homegrown herbs and vegetables.

• Nifty in-room amenities: Flat-screen televisions, two-person showers, and personal porches, depending on the room
• Included meal: A daily three-course gourmet breakfast
• Other included perks: A bottle of wine, chocolates, and coupons toward local wineries and breweries
• Recommended entree: Norwegian salmon, served with a champagne butter dill sauce, at the Fountain Room
• Friendly residents of the inn: The innkeepers’ two pet Pomeranians and a Red Lorid Amazon parrot
• Must-see nearby attraction: Thomas Jefferson’s estate, Monticello
• For wine and beer enthusiasts: The nearby Brew Ridge Trail, Monticello Wine Trail, and winery and brewery tours through Tours for Tunes

Nellysford, Virginia: Historic Estates amid the Blue Ridge Mountains

The town of Nellysford sits on the outskirts of the Lesesne State Forest, tucked amid the Blue Ridge Mountains’ rolling foothills. The scenic, 469-mile-long Blue Ridge Parkway wends through the area, traveling across the Appalachian Mountains and offering close-up views of local flora and fauna.

It’s worth it to travel the 30 miles to Monticello, Thomas Jefferson’s estate. The Federal-style manse is filled with artifacts from the third President’s lifetime, including a bust of Benjamin Franklin and an engraving portrait of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. You can also hike to and from Monticello on the two-mile (one-way) Saunders-Monticello Trail—park in the parking lot at the trailhead and then follow the scenic path until you reach Monticello.

When you’re done, swing by nearby Charlottesville and its pedestrian-friendly Historic Downtown Mall to browse boutiques or grab a bite to eat in an al fresco cafe. A free trolley connects the mall with the historic campus of University of Virginia.

Read the Fine Print for important info on travel dates and other restrictions.

Rainforests, Arenal Volcano, and Bustling Cityscapes in Costa Rica

The tour includes:

• Round-trip airfare from Miami (MIA)
• Two nights in San Jose, two nights in Arenal, and two nights in Monteverde
• Airport and ground transfers
• Six breakfasts, one lunch, and two dinners
• Sightseeing and entrance fees per itinerary
• An English-speaking tour guide

You can see some trip highlights below; check out the day-by-day itinerary here.

Days 1–3 The tour kicks off with a day of leisure in San Jose, Costa Rica's vibrant capital and cultural center. The city is home to many of the country's most important museums, including the Pre-Columbian Gold Museum, which displays more than 1,500 gold artifacts including armor, animal sculptures, and jewelry. It's also worth checking out the sculpture garden at the Costa Rican Art Museum.

The next destination is Arenal, but as you venture east, you’ll make a pit stop in the pastoral town of Sarchi. A large population of artisans lives and works here, so it's a good place to stock up on handmade arts and crafts. Once you reach Arenal, you can explore the landscape however you like. The most striking attraction is, of course, Arenal Volcano, an imposing peak overlooking miles of rainforest. Zipline tours and bird-watching are popular ways to pass the time here.

Days 4–5 On a morning hike through Arenal National Park, keep an eye out for howler monkeys, parrots, sloths, and other creatures that make their home in the 7,000-acre park. Later, you’ll visit a hummingbird gallery at the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve.

Day five begins with a tour of a local coffee farm—an integral part of Costa Rica's economy and culture. There's no set itinerary for the remainder of the day. Head back to the mist-enshrouded Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve for a chance to glimpse the bright green quetzal, one of the rarest birds in the park.

Days 6–7 The tour returns to San Jose, where travelers can spend their penultimate day exploring the capital at their own pace. Be sure to sample local cuisine, such as fried bananas and gallo pinto, a dish of seasoned beans and rice served with tortillas and eggs. You'll also have time to visit the Jade Museum to peruse one of the world’s largest collections of that gemstone.

Read the Fine Print for important info on travel dates and other restrictions.

1. How much would it cost to fly from an airport not listed as part of this deal?

The supplemental fee is subject to departure date and availability at the time of booking. For information regarding a specific departure date, please call (800) 682-3333 to speak with a Gate 1 Travel Reservation Specialist.

2. Can we extend our trip before or after the promotional dates for the deal?

Yes, you may extend your trip for a supplemental fee at the time of booking.

3. How do I find out if the dates I want to travel are available?

The dates available are listed on each option.

4. What happens if I buy the Groupon and my travel dates are not available?

You can either choose another date or be refunded by Groupon. We suggest calling Gate 1 Travel to redeem your vouchers ASAP so that you do not run into this problem.

5. Does my child need a Groupon, and can they stay in my room?

Yes, each person traveling (including children) needs to purchase a voucher. Your child may stay in your room, however there are limits as to how many people per room. Triples are available on this tour.

Visit Budapest's Danube River, Vienna's Cafes, and Prague's Lookout Tower

This tour includes:

• Round-trip airfare from Chicago, New York, or Los Angeles (LAX)
• Three nights standard accommodations at Danubius Hotel Astoria in Budapest
• Three nights standard accommodations at the Roomz Hotel in Vienna
• Three nights standard accommodations at the Hotel Duo Prague in Prague
• Budapest city tour
• Second-class rail from Budapest to Vienna
• Vienna city tour & Schönbrunn
• Second-class rail from Vienna to Prague
• City sightseeing in Prague for two consecutive days
• Breakfast daily
• All taxes

Days 1–4: Budapest

The tour's first stop is Budapest, the Hungarian capital, perched on the storybook banks of the Danube River. Frommer's calls Budapest "architecturally stunning.” You'll have a couple days to explore the city at your leisure, but you'll also embark on a guided city tour that spotlights the architecture and landscape firsthand.

In 1873, the independent cities of Buda and Pest were merged to form Budapest. At the start of a three-hour city tour, you’ll see the Chain Bridge, which once connected the two independent cities; the bridge suspends across the Danube via iron chains. The tour then crosses the river over Margaret Bridge to the iconic Castle District, which has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its myriad historical churches and synagogues. Matthias Church, built in the 13th century, is stunning to behold: it has spindly gothic towers, intricate tilework, and paintings by native Hungarians.

Days 5–7: Vienna

The tour makes its way northwest for a three-day stint in Vienna, Austria, marked by Habsburg architecture, riverside parks, and intimate coffee shops. During your time in Austria, you'll visit the decadent Schonbrunn Palace. The centuries-old castle is almost cartoonishly opulent: it features an outdoor labyrinth, opulent rococo accents, and nearly 1500 rooms, including a hall of mirrors where a young Mozart once performed. The group will then move along Vienna's famed Ringstrasse, a boulevard that encircles the heart of the city lined with palaces, museums, and the State Opera House.

Days 8–11: Prague The final leg of the trip finds you in Prague, nicknamed the City of a Thousand Spires for its church and palace towers that rise high above the Vltava River. The best way to see the river is from atop the Charles Bridge, which has spanned the waterway since the 14th century. Street artists sketch cityscapes from this vantage point. You can also get a panoramic view of the city from Prague's Lookout Tower. Built in the late 19th century, The hilltop structure resembles a mini Eiffel tower and from the very top, you can sometimes see the summit of the Czech Republic's tallest mountain.

Read the Fine Print for important info on travel dates and other restrictions.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How much would it cost to fly from an airport not listed as part of this deal? Pricing to fly from an airport not listed will vary, call Go-today at (800) 227-3235 to price air from your home city. Other gateways are available to book and air supplements will be charged directly to client when booking package. Air pricing can change at any time based on availability especially during holidays so it is always best to book early as lowest available air can sell out fast.

2. Can we extend our trip before or after the promotional dates for the deal? You can book pre and post travel, but it is based on availability and if you want to extend your hotel stay at the hotel in the package we will need to request special pricing as it is part of a block.

3. How do I find out if the dates I want to travel are available? The number of vouchers is based on how many rooms we have in the block for this promotion so if the voucher is available to book the hotel will be available to book. Air pricing can change at any time based on availability especially during holidays so it is always best to book early as lowest available air can sell out fast.

4. What happens if I buy the Groupon and my travel dates are not available? We closely monitor availability and cap allocation so it is very unlikely that the selected travel dates would not be available. That said, the sooner the redemption through Go-today occurs, the better the chances are that your preferred travel dates will be available.

5. Does my child need a Groupon, and can they stay in my room? It depends on the child’s age. Younger than 2 should be free but you will need to advise hotel. Go-today does not have block space for rooms with children so will have to request them.

Turn-of-the-Century Mansion on 55 Acres

Long Island became a sought-after getaway spot in the late 1800s, when affluent Manhattan families—including the Morgans, Tiffanys, Vanderbilts, and the Woolworths—started building country homes there. Within a few years, the North Shore earned the nickname “Gold Coast” for its influx of lavish estates, including what eventually became the Glen Cove Mansion Hotel & Conference Center.

Like its neighbors, the property can trace its history back to the whims of a highly influential family: that of John T. Pratt, an attorney and oil executive with Standard Oil, and Ruth Baker Pratt, the first Republican congresswoman from New York. Then known simply as The Manor, the Pratts' 1910 estate stood out as one of the most glamorous with a stately two-story portico entrance and ornate stone fountain, a popular bathing spot for local sparrows. The mansion was converted to a hotel in the 1960s and maintains its turn-of-the-last-century charm. Antique light fixtures, imported wood paneling, and other original details fill the common areas. Outside, the original pillared entrance and fountain still stand as the centerpiece of the estate's expansive grounds.

Interrupted only by zigzagging hiking and biking trails, the 55 acres are primed for outdoor activities year-round: you can rent bicycles and play croquet when it’s warm or don a pair of snowshoes to explore the trails in the winter. Inside, Pub 1910 serves up refreshing cocktails and classic American fare such as Cajun seared salmon in a spacious saloon.

Long Island’s North Shore: Picturesque Coves Lined with Elegant Estates

Best known as the setting of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s The Great Gatsby, Long Island’s North Shore, which lies about a 30-minute drive from New York City, is home to some of the most elegant 19th-century estates in the country. Some—including the Vanderbilt mansion and Old Westbury Gardens museum—open their wrought-iron gates to the public, offering tours through blooming gardens and rooms set with original furniture.

The marine locale also provides an ideal climate for winemaking. Small-production vineyards, many with tastings and tours available, dot the pastoral landscape.

Read the Fine Print for important info on travel dates and other restrictions.

New Year’s Eve in Barcelona

This trip includes:

• Round-trip airfare
• Six nights at one of three 4-star properties: Hotel America, the H10 Itaca, or the H10 Casanova
• Private, round-trip transfers
• A bottle of sparkling champagne
• A one-day pass for a hop-on, hop-off sightseeing bus tour
• Daily continental breakfast
• Taxes and service charges

On this eight-day vacation, you’ll ring in the New Year in a city that knows how to have fun—in fact, Barcelona was named one of the world’s best nightlife cities by CNN Travel. The package includes accommodations in 4-star hotels as well as a sightseeing tour on a double-decker bus and plenty of time to explore the city on your own.

New Year’s Eve in Barcelona

In Spain, when the clock strikes midnight on December 31, revelers all across the country eat 12 grapes—one for each toll of the bell—in order to usher in good luck for the coming year. This tradition is often followed by drinking flutes of cava, a Spanish sparkling wine, and eating turron, almond and honey nougat from the country’s Alicante region.

In Barcelona, all the top bars, clubs, and restaurants host New Year’s Eve celebrations, many of which include formal dinner packages. Around midnight, hundreds of people gather in Plaza Catalunya in the center of town to ring in the new year, and the celebration continues well into the morning. Click here to see some of the hottest clubs in town (keep in mind that most places don’t get going until around 2 a.m.)

Double-Decker Bus Tour

This Getaway includes a hop-on, hop-off city sightseeing bus tour, which you can schedule for any day of the trip. Of the 44 stops along the route, here are some of our favorites:

• Catalan native Antoni Gaudi left his mark on the city with the Sagrada Familia, a fanciful cathedral featuring eight towering spires, exquisitely sculpted religious façades, and an interior with columns inspired by trees and branches. Though it remains unfinished, the church has been described as “the most extraordinary personal interpretation of Gothic architecture since the Middle Ages” by National Geographic.

• The Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya is best known for its collection of Romanesque art, including recreated interiors of 11th- and 12th-century churches using frescoes, woodcarvings, and sculptures from the originals.

• One of the most enchanting public places in Barcelona is Park Guell. Like something out of a fairy tale, it contains gingerbread houses, dragon sculptures, and a tower with one of the most spectacular views of the city.

The rest of your time in Barcelona is yours to explore however you’d like. For a local experience, feast on post-siesta tapas at a café in the Born-Ribera neighborhood, or cool off at a beach in the fishermen’s quarter.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How much would it cost to fly from an airport not listed as part of this deal?
Pricing to fly from an airport not listed will vary, call Go-today at (800) 227-3235 to price air from your home city. Other gateways are available to book and air supplements will be charged directly to client when booking package. Air pricing can change at any time based on availability especially during holidays so it is always best to book early as lowest available air can sell out fast.

2. Can we extend our trip before or after the promotional dates for the deal?
You can book pre and post travel, but it is based on availability and if you want to extend your hotel stay at the hotel in the package we will need to request special pricing as it is part of a block.

3. How do I find out if the dates I want to travel are available?
The number of vouchers is based on how many rooms we have in the block for this promotion so if the voucher is available to book the hotel will be available to book. Air pricing can change at any time based on availability especially during holidays so it is always best to book early as lowest available air can sell out fast.

4. What happens if I buy the Groupon and my travel dates are not available?
We closely monitor availability and cap allocation so it is very unlikely that the selected travel dates would not be available. That said, the sooner the redemption through Go-today occurs, the better the chances are that your preferred travel dates will be available.

5. Does my child need a Groupon, and can they stay in my room?
It depends on the child’s age. Younger than 2 should be free but you will need to advise hotel. Go-today does not have block space for rooms with children so will have to request them.

Four-Star Retreat Nestled in British Columbia’s Purcell Mountains

The four-star Mountain Spirit Resort sits at the base of Kimberley Alpine Resort in the Purcell Mountains. Crafted from timber and stone, the lodge is equal parts elegance and rustic mountain charm. Here, you can spend the morning in a spa tub, the afternoon exploring the spectacular wilderness surrounding Kimberley, and the evening enjoying dinner at one of the village’s nearby restaurants.

The resort's rustic wooden portico provides a sheltered pathway to Mountain Spirit's lobby, which features a massive, double-sided fireplace. Well-appointed suites boast floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the heated outdoor pool and the Kootenay Rockies. The resort uses geothermal heating and cooling, which helped the property earn a 4 Green Key eco rating.

In the morning, have breakfast in the en suite kitchen and keep an eye out for deer foraging for their own meals outside. Kayaking and whitewater rafting in snow-fed waters are popular warm-weather activities, as is a round of golf on a mountainside course.

Kimberley, British Columbia: Alpine Charm and Outdoor Adventure

Kimberley complements mountain-village charm with year-round outdoor adventures. The town’s Underground Mining Railway is a train attraction that chugs through Mark Creek Valley's scenic landscape as guides reveal historical tidbits about the town's late-19th-century roots as a mining center. In town, pedestrians walk through the Platzl shopping center, which boasts quaint boutiques, Bavarian architecture, and Canada's largest freestanding cuckoo clock.

Beyond the picturesque town, mountainous topography and abundant waterways make for excellent horseback riding and fly-fishing. The array of summer activities include access to water falls, hot springs, mounting biking, golf, and much more.

Read the Fine Print for important info on travel dates and other restrictions.

Top Reasons to Stay at Fireside Lodge

• Fireside Lodge is composed of chalets, cabins, and suites in the heart of Big Bear Lake in Southern California.
• This deal’s second option includes two tickets for a concert at The Cave, a new music venue operated by the owners of Fireside Lodge. Read about it in the Sun. It’s located in an old movie theater in the downtown area. Upcoming performances include tribute shows to Fleetwood Mac and John Denver, as well as some jazz.
• With more than 300 days of sunshine per year, Big Bear Lake is a year-round recreation destination. Boating, swimming, and hiking are popular in the spring and summer, and there’s ziplining in town.
• One block from the lodge are two full-service marinas where you can rent boats and jet skis or sign up for a paddleboat tour of the lake.
• Country-style accommodations range in size; some have fireplaces and knotted-wood bedframes, and many are pet friendly.
• Located half a mile from the lodge, Big Bear Lake Village is home to gourmet restaurants, gift shops, and a bowling barn.

Big Bear Lake, California: Outdoorsy Resort Community in the Foothills of the Sierra Nevada

The resort community of Big Bear Lake centers on the body of water it’s named after—an alpine lake situated nearly 7,000 feet above sea level and surrounded by the San Bernardino National Forest and the snowy peaks of the San Bernardino Mountains. Los Angeles is less than 100 miles to the west, which is probably why Big Bear Valley has served as a backdrop for so many films and TV shows, including The Parent Trap, Doctor Dolittle, and Bonanza.

The lake is a popular destination for boating, fishing, and swimming during the warm months. You’ll find miles of hiking and mountain-biking trails in the surrounding forest. The 2-mile Castle Rock Trail weaves through groves of pine and cedar trees and past a waterfall before rewarding trekkers with a summit view of the lake. But Big Bear isn’t entirely rustic—head to the village, located on the south shore, for restaurants, shopping, an arcade, a bowling alley, and a visitors' center.

True to its name, the area once supported a thriving grizzly-bear population. Though that’s no longer the case, you still might see bald eagles, mule deer, coyotes, gray foxes, and even the occasional bobcat or black bear. For a guaranteed glimpse of wildlife, visit the Big Bear Alpine Zoo at Moonridge, a rehabilitation facility for injured and orphaned wild animals that counts mountain lions, grizzly bears, and wolves among its residents.

Read the Fine Print for important info on travel dates and other restrictions.

Hotel at a Glance: Hacienda Del Sol Guest Ranch Resort

Hacienda Del Sol Guest Ranch Resort sits on 34 acres of historic, flowering property in the foothills of the Catalina Mountains. Once a schoolhouse for the daughters of high society, the estate is today best known for its AAA Four Diamond Award–winning restaurant, The Grill, which serves contemporary cuisine with local ingredients—many plucked right out of the hotel’s own garden.

• Press shout-out: Wine Spectator has honored The Grill’s 10,000-bottle wine list with awards of excellence for 14 years running.
• Interesting dish: The Grill’s playful watermelon gazpacho is served with a caramel corn crouton for a sweet, crunchy kick.
• Happy hour: Swing by between 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. Sunday through Thursday for discounted drinks and half off appetizers.
• Hot tip: The Grill’s Sunday brunch ranks among the best in town, with buffet-style omelets, waffles, and complimentary champagne and mimosas.
• Nifty in-room amenities: above-standard, spacious Hacienda rooms feature handcrafted furniture, flat-screen TVs, and views of the desert, garden, or city.
• Go swimming: The vast estate includes an outdoor pool surrounded by lounge chairs, perfect for sunbathing.

Tucson, Arizona: Southwestern History and Culture Amid the Cacti

Tucson—or the Old Pueblo—is a bastion of southwestern history and rich culture surrounded by mountains and desert. It's existed as an outpost for years, and as such it's absorbed elements from European, Native American, Mexican, and Asian cultures. Today, this unique blend is especially evident in the downtown restaurant scene, where you can get authentic chilies rellenos, delicately prepared sushi, and upscale bistro fare with fine wines from nearby vintners.

Those willing to make the short trip outside of downtown can better soak up the area's gorgeous natural landscape at the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, a combined botanical garden and zoo located about 20 miles west of the hotel. There, mountain lions, gila monsters, and more than 1,200 kinds of plants spread across 21 acres of desert scenery.

Mission San Xavier del Bac, the "White Dove of the Desert," is one of the oldest intact European structures in Arizona. The sprawling white adobe church, located about 10 miles south of downtown, was built in the 1700s. It's a striking example of the area's Spanish colonial architecture, with interiors lined with frescoes and fine sculpture.

Read the Fine Print for important info on travel dates and other restrictions.

Historic Pagodas, Stately Palaces, and Bustling Markets in Multi-City Tour of Vietnam

Included in all trips:

• Round-trip airfare
• Airline taxes & fuel surcharges
• Intra-flights Ho Chi Minh-Da Nang & Hue-Hanoi
• Two nights standard accommodations at Royal Lotus Hotel Saigon, Hotel Palace Saigon or Oscar Saigon Hotel in Ho Chi Minh
• Two nights standard accommodations at Hoi An Pacific Hotel or Hoi An Trails Resort in Hoi An
• Two nights standard accommodations at Huong Giang Hotel or Mondial Hotel Hue in Hue
• One night standard accommodations at Royal Lotus Hotel in Halong Bay
• Three nights standard accommodations at Chalcedony Hotel or Sunway Hotel in Hanoi
• All transfers
• 12 meals: 10 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 1 dinner
• Sightseeing per itinerary in modern air-conditioned motor coach
• Services of English-speaking tour manager throughout
• Entrance fees per itinerary

Click here to view the full itinerary.

Days 1–3: Ho Chi Minh City

After arriving in Ho Chi Minh City on day two, you'll settle into your hotel. In the afternoon of the third day, the group embarks on a guided city tour. On the way, you’ll say the neo-Romanesque Notre Dame Cathedral—a centerpiece of the city—as well as the French Colonial-style City Hall, which is modeled after Paris’ City Hall. You’ll also make a pit stop at the Ben Thanh Market, an outdoor market featuring stalls lined with clothing, jewelry, crafts, Vietnamese coffee, and authentic dishes.

Days 4–5: Hoi An

After breakfast, the group boards a flight bound for Da Nang before transferring to Hoi An, further south. On a walking tour, you’ll visit the historic riverside port, which was founded in the 15th century. Another highlight: the circa-1690 Phuoc Kien Pagoda, an ornate temple dedicated to the goddess of the sea. Later, the group swings by a Vietnamese silk embroidery workshop; the following day, you can explore Hoi An independently.

Days 6–7: Hue

In the morning, travelers hop on a shuttle to Hue, a former capital of Vietnam from 1802 to 1945; the route passes through the Marble Mountains and alongside scenic Da Nang Bay. A guided tour takes the group through Hue’s Old Imperial City, which was modeled after Beijing’s Forbidden City and houses several temples and palaces. The Ngo Mon Gate, a stately entrance to the Hue Citadel, was reserved for the Emperor alone.

The next day is up to you: Recommended sights include the Tombs of the Emperors, a scattered collection of monuments dedicated to nine of the 13 rulers of the Nguyen Dynasty, and the Thien Mu Pagoda, a seven-story structure which dates back to 1601.

Days 8–12: Hanoi

After landing in Hanoi, the group travels through Vietnamese farmland en route to Halong Bay. You’ll float on a traditional wooden boat through the bay—speckled with more than 1,000 limestone islets—and stop by a cave to explore. If the weather’s nice, you can climb overboard and take a swim before the group heads back to Hanoi.

The following day, you’ll tour Hanoi and make stops at the Old Quarter and the Museum of Ethnology, a center that celebrates the cultural heritage of the 54 ethnic groups that call Vietnam home. Come nightfall, visitors are treated to a water puppet show on Hoan Kiem Lake that depicts Vietnamese folktales. On the final full day, you’re free to explore on your own before a farewell dinner and a return flight the next morning.

Read the Fine Print for important info on travel dates and other restrictions.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How much would it cost to fly from an airport not listed as part of this deal? The supplemental fee is subject to departure date and availability at the time of booking. For information regarding a specific departure date, please call (800) 682-3333 to speak with a Gate 1 Travel Reservation Specialist.

2. Can we extend our trip before or after the promotional dates for the deal? Yes, you may extend your trip for a supplemental fee at the time of booking.

3. How do I find out if the dates I want to travel are available? The dates available are listed on each option.

4. What happens if I buy the Groupon and my travel dates are not available? You can either choose another date or be refunded by Groupon. We suggest calling Gate 1 Travel to redeem your vouchers as soon as possible so that you do not run into this problem.

5. Does my child need a Groupon, and can they stay in my room? Yes, each person traveling (including children) needs to purchase a voucher. Your child may stay in your room, however there are limits as to how many people per room.

Tour Thailand’s Opulent Buddhist Temples, Floating Markets, and Lively Beaches

This trip includes:

• Round-trip airfare from China Airlines from LAX
• 4 nights’ standard accommodations at Century Park Hotel Bangkok
• 4 nights’ standard accommodations at Amari Orchid Pattaya hotel
• Tours and meals per itinerary

With Pacific Holidays' tour of Thailand, you’ll start by flying to Bangkok—which Travel + Leisure named the No. 1 city to visit in the world—and then take a half-day tour of the elaborate Buddhist temples in the Old City. After a few days in the Thai capital, head to the resort town of Pattaya, known for its pristine beaches and bawdy nightclubs. The 10-day tour includes round-trip airfare from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) on China Airlines as well as accommodations in 4- and 4.5-star hotels and a daily American breakfast.

Click here to view the full itinerary as well as the available departure dates.

Days 1–2:

Fly from Los Angeles International Airport to Thailand, losing a day when you cross the International Date Line. Once you arrive in Bangkok, a shuttle will meet you at Suvarnabhumi Airport to take you to the 4-star Century Park Hotel Bangkok, where you'll spend the evening.

Day 3:

A half-day tour showcases Thailand's opulent temples in the Old City district, including the Wat Traimit temple and its solid-gold Buddha. The 900-year-old statue weighs 5 tons. You’ll also see Wat Pho temple, one of the city's largest wats with more than a thousand depictions of Buddha on its grounds. The most famous—a reclining Buddha with mother of pearl adorning its feet—stretches for more than 150 feet.

Days 4–7:

Fill up on breakfast before heading south along the Gulf of Thailand to the carefree resort town of Pattaya, where you'll stay at the 4.5-star Amari Orchid Pattaya hotel. There's no itinerary once you're in Pattaya, so you’ll see the sights at your own pace. During the day, visitors paraglide, scuba dive, or rent banana boats to sail along the city’s many beaches. Pattaya also has a reputation for a somewhat-raucous nightlife. More than a hundred neon-lit bars line its famous Walking Street, many with nightly go-go dancing and cabaret shows.

Days 8–10:

Bright and early, you'll transfer back to Bangkok for 2 days of leisure. You can lounge at the hotel or use your free time to fit in a few more sights. One option is the city's floating market, where local farmers sell fresh fruits, vegetables, and traditional Thai food from tiny boats. Enjoy a final night at the Century Park Hotel Bangkok before your return flight home.
Read the Fine Print for important info on travel dates and other restrictions.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How much would it cost to fly from an airport not listed as part of this deal? Please call Pacific Holidays for add-on airfares from your home cities to gateway city – Los Angeles.

2. Can we extend our trip before or after the promotional dates for the deal? This promotion is based on airlines short stay maximum for 5 nights in Tahiti. If anyone wishes to stay extra day(s) a different and higher fare will apply.

3. How do I find out if the dates I want to travel are available? Please call Pacific Holidays for available dates.

4. What happens if I buy the Groupon and my travel dates are not available? Call and check the dates before purchasing.

5. Does my child need a Groupon, and can they stay in my room? Child pricing is available and lower. You don't have to purchase full Groupon. Call Pacific Holidays for an exact amount.

Chic Hotel in Heart of Ottawa’s Historic Downtown

Sir George-Étienne Cartier, Queen Victoria, and the knight Sir Galahad have all been honored with statues on Ottawa’s Parliament Hill. These three figures stand among a dozen others honoring important monarchs and politicians in Canadian history. Most of them can be found behind the imposing buildings where the Canadian parliament conducts the business of governing the country. The structures on Parliament Hill are considered some of the most impressive examples of Gothic Revival architecture in the world. The Delta Ottawa City Centre hotel is just a 10-minute walk from Parliament Hill, making it easy for guests to spend a day exploring the historic site.

Though surrounded by Gothic design, the hotel embraces chic, modern decor and furnishings. Mode rooms feature bold colors and clean lines as well as flat-screen TVs and ultraplush Sanctuary beds. Large windows put the capital city on display in rooms and at the indoor pool, which sits next to a wall of glass. Other amenities include a sauna and a fitness facility.

At Lift restaurant, chefs use handpicked ingredients to whip up international dishes such as poached sockeye salmon oven-roasted rack of lamb. The restaurant’s bar is fully stocked with premium spirits served in funky martini glasses. Each weekday morning, Lift greets guests with a full American-style breakfast buffet.

Ottawa, Ontario: Canada’s Artsy, Accessible Capital City

Canada’s bright and friendly capital sits along the southern banks of the Ottawa River. The city's best sights are all located in close proximity to one another in the sparkling center of town. After spending an afternoon at Parliament Hill, pay a visit to the National Gallery of Canada. Outside the gallery, make sure to snap a photo beneath the Maman statue, a massive, spider-like structure with bronze legs that seem to rise as high as the Notre Dame Cathedral Basilica next door. For lunch or dinner, head to the Byward Market, Ottawa’s cultural nerve center and a huge public market packed with hundreds of produce stands, restaurants, and food stalls featuring cuisines from around the world.

Read the Fine Print for important info on travel dates and other restrictions.

Old-Fashioned Tavern and Inn with Ties to the American Revolution

Between 1781 and 1784, Declaration of Independence signer Robert Morris was considered one of the most powerful men in America. The superintendent of finance during the first few years of America’s independence, he was called the “Financier of the Revolution.” George Washington was a regular visitor at his home in Oxford, Maryland. The home, built in 1710 and enlarged several times since, is now known as The Robert Morris Inn. Because it’s been putting up travelers for more than 300 years, it’s believed by some to be the oldest inn in America. Walking inside is like stepping into the past. There’s an old slate floor, timber beams, and a taproom and tavern outfitted with a gigantic fireplace.

In reference to the inn, the Huffington Post asked, “Have you ever … pined for the days of old when a tavern with strong drinks and hearty food had comfortable rooms just upstairs?” The inn has 14 such bedrooms, each filled with period-appropriate decor including four-poster beds and maritime paintings. Admiral rooms are original to the main house and look out over Chesapeake Bay; captain rooms have views of historic Oxford. Cabins have views of the town or the inn’s rear grounds.

Breakfast, which is included with your stay, is served in Salter’s Tap Room & Tavern. For dinner, renowned chef Mark Salter crafts a menu comprising local ingredients. A particular favorite is the crab spring rolls, which the Washington Post published a recipe for in 2012.

Oxford, Maryland: Charming Town on the Chesapeake

Set on Maryland’s Eastern Shore, jutting out into the Chesapeake Bay, the village of Oxford is a former colonial port for British trade. Today, locals enjoy exploring the bay by sailboat, and fishermen catch crab and striped bass before passing them off to nearby seafood restaurants. The surrounding Talbot County encompasses more than 600 miles of shoreline, earning the area the title of “the Hamptons of the Chesapeake Bay.”

Founded in 1683, Oxford is one of the oldest towns in Maryland and has fewer than 800 inhabitants. That doesn’t mean there’s little to do, though—the quaint downtown area is lined with art galleries, restaurants, and shops perfect for leisurely browsing. On the first Friday of each month, the town holds a gallery walk during which shops and studios stay open late and visitors are encouraged to wander the historic streets. If you’re interested in the town’s long history, head over to The Oxford Museum, which displays more than 2,500 artifacts, including paintings, furnishings, and official documents.

Read the Fine Print for important info on travel dates and other restrictions.

Ramada Hotel and Casino Close to Reno’s Strip

Two hundred fifty of the latest slot machines and video-poker games light up Diamond’s Casino, located adjacent to the Ramada Reno Hotel & Casino lobby. The casino stays open 24 hours a day, so players can always sit down to a $2 blackjack table or one of three other table games. The cost-effective blackjack minimum may prove to be a great warm-up for the rest of Reno’s glittering casinos, many of which are on the strip and less than a mile away.

The Ramada’s 281 guest rooms look out onto either the Sierra Nevada mountains or the neon lights of downtown Reno. Its two onsite restaurants are J.T. Ashley’s, which serves breakfast and dinner, and the 24-hour Casino Diner, home of the double cheeseburger and some of Reno’s best food deals. Those choosing option three get a full breakfast each morning for two people.

Reno, Nevada: Casino City with Arts and Outdoor Adventure

Reno lives up to its billing as “The Biggest Little City in the World" thanks to its flashy casinos, cultural centers, and restaurants worthy of a much larger metropolis, all packed together on Virginia Street. If you need a break from courting Lady Luck at the big gaming palaces such as Circus Circus and Harrah's (which began here), head to the Truckee River Arts District to explore the Nevada Museum of Art and the National Automobile Museum. Because of its location at the foot of the Sierra Nevada and just east of Tahoe National Forest, the city also puts visitors within reach of rushing rivers and high mountain ranges for hiking, rafting, and gold-rush reenacting.

Read the Fine Print for important info on travel dates and other restrictions.

Hotel at a Glance: Comfort Suites Palm Desert

Comfort Suites Palm Desert makes its home amid an arid landscape of desert brush and wind-worn boulders a stone's throw from Joshua Tree National Park. Despite its rustic Coachella Valley setting, the hotel is near plenty of upscale attractions. This family-friendly hotel also caters to business travelers with a business center that offers high-speed Internet and copy and fax services.

• Must-see nearby: Located less than an hour south of the hotel, the rare inland sea at Salton Sea State Recreation Area is popular for fishing and bird watching. The park has 400 types of birds, including brown pelicans and chilean flamingos.
• Piping-hot breakfast: Eggs, fresh fruit, meats, cereal, and do-it-yourself waffles each morning
• Take a dip: Heated outdoor pool and hot tub surrounded by palm trees
• Fitness options: Outdoor putting green and fully equipped fitness room

Palm Desert, California: Shopping and Wildlife in Scenic Coachella Valley

Palm Desert shares the desert landscape and resort atmosphere of Palm Springs, about 20 miles to the northeast. It's worth it to visit Palm Desert's El Paseo, known as the Rodeo Drive of the desert for its art galleries, high-end boutiques, and brand-name retailers such as Gucci, Ralph Lauren, and Saks Fifth Avenue.

Palm Desert is also a gateway town to the more than 750,000-acre Joshua Tree National Park, located less than 60 miles away. In addition to being the birthplace of Bono, the desert park is famous for its unusual geologic formations and mountains of twisted rock, ideal for rock climbing. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife including desert bighorn sheep, golden eagles, and coyotes.

For a guaranteed glimpse of wildlife, check out The Living Desert, a zoo, botanical garden, and animal hospital in Palm Desert. As you stroll throughout the various geographical regions—including North America and Africa's Village WaTuTu—you will see flora and fauna indigenous to that area, which can include Mexican gray wolves, giraffes, or jaguars. The Living Desert also boasts a G-scale model train that winds its way through replicas of historical scenes, including a California mining and logging town and the Grand Canyon.

Read the Fine Print for important info on travel dates and other restrictions.

Romantic Inn on a Lake amid Gardens and Mountain Views

Perched on the ridge of Tenney Mountain, strewn with colorful wildflowers and overlooking New Hampshire's Newfound Lake, Coppertoppe Inn and Retreat Center offers an idyllic setting for a romantic getaway for two or a family vacation with the dog. The bed and breakfast's grounds boast two frog ponds and picturesque arbors inviting walks along tree-lined roads. You can also walk or drive to Newfound Lake to hike or rent a canoe or kayak. Back at the inn, you can take part in cooking and gardening classes, crafts, and musical instruments.

The elegant guest rooms and suites feature mahogany floors, lots of sunlight, and views of Newfound Lake and the surrounding mountains. You can snuggle on a king-size bed topped with down pillows or, if you have allergies, reserve hypoallergenic bedding from the inn’s “pillow library.”

As part of the deal, you get the choice of a sweet or savory treat package. Each includes drinks—choose from a bottle of local wine, a six-pack of beer (local selections available), or nonalcoholic beverages. For the sweet package, you’ll get a large plate of fruit and local artisan fudge. You also have the option of a fruit, cheese, and crackers plate; chips with cheese and hummus or salsa; or an antipasto platter. If you prefer another snack assortment, the inn is happy to accommodate; you can enjoy it in your room or in the dining room.

In the morning, pre-ordered custom-made breakfasts may include baked oatmeal, pancakes, french toast, or vegan goods. If you have a special dietary restriction or request, the innkeepers will go out of their way to accommodate it. Coppertoppe participates in a CSA farm share and is proud to provide meats, eggs, and produce from locally provided sources, as well as herbs from its own garden.

Hebron, New Hampshire: Lakeside Town with Boating and Fishing near the White Mountains

Hebron is located in the Lakes Region of central New Hampshire. The historic village sits at the north end of Newfound Lake, which is billed as one of the cleanest lakes in the world. Its crystal-clear, spring-fed waters hug 22 miles of shoreline and are ideal for boating, fishing, and water-skiing. Six miles from Coppertoppe on the western shore, Wellington State Park offers a 200-acre freshwater swimming beach and a motorboat launch area.

Thanks to its location in the foothills of the White Mountains, Hebron also gives guests access to some of the best hiking opportunities in New England. White Mountain National Forest—located 13 miles from Coppertoppe—contains 4,000-foot cliffs and more than 50 miles of the meandering Appalachian Trail.

Read the Fine Print for important info on travel dates and other restrictions.

Charming Bed and Breakfast Steps from the Atlantic City Boardwalk

After The Carisbrooke Inn innkeeper John Battista traveled around Europe extensively, he returned with an appreciation for European hospitality and applied it to his bed and breakfast, located just blocks from the Atlantic City boardwalk. Guests will notice the staff’s friendliness and attention to detail the moment they walk through the door. It starts with the bellhop quickly taking your bags upstairs. After you’re settled in, you can enjoy some of the wine and ice cream included in the Getaway package. In the evening, there’s more wine and refreshments served on the ocean deck—you might try John’s special wine blend, fresh bruschetta, and focaccia from an old family recipe.

In the morning, the inn hosts a three-course breakfast on its ocean-view parlor. The main course is always a surprise, but you might get the chance to try the inn’s signature waffles or spinach-and-gruyère strata, its take on a quiche.

When the weather is warm, the beach is the place to be. As part of this deal’s stay-the-day package, on your day of departure, you’ll also be able to use the inn’s bathroom and outdoor shower, which has hold and cold water and a changing room. Feel free to enjoy the inn’s afternoon refreshments hour from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m., too.

From the outside, you'll see the inn's American foursquare-style architecture. But inside, you’ll find Victorian touches and a warm color palette reminiscent of a French cottage. Each of the guest rooms is individually styled with antique furnishings and vintage pieces. The inn even has a piano and a guitar if you want to play a few tunes.

Ventnor City, New Jersey: Historical Seaside Hamlet near Atlantic City Casinos

Less than two miles from downtown Atlantic City’s casinos and clubs lies its more subdued neighbor, Ventnor City. It’s a small, old-fashioned beach community with quaint shops and restaurants, a welcome complement to Atlantic City’s frenetic atmosphere.

The town is the perfect launch pad for trips to the beach’s signature boardwalk, which stretches for 6 miles along New Jersey's eastern coast. Originally built in 1870 to keep sand out of hotel lobbies, the boardwalk grew in popularity as a place where you could drink and gamble during Prohibition without much trouble from the police, as depicted in HBO's Boardwalk Empire. The boardwalk is still popular for its casinos, but it's family-friendly, too; visitors are just as inclined to sit at the beach or stop at one of the many carnival rides.

Proving further that Atlantic City isn't all nightclubs, boardwalk, and casinos is Gardner's Basin, a maritime village along the bay. Here, a community of artisans uses seashells and driftwood to hand-make items such as wind chimes and picture frames. However, the Basin's biggest claim to fame is the 25,000-gallon Atlantic City Aquarium swimming with turtles and rays.

Read the Fine Print for important info on travel dates and other restrictions.

Spacious Condos Surrounded by Rocky Mountains

Steamboat Springs didn't start out as a resort community. Located nearly 7,000 feet up in the Rocky Mountains of northwest Colorado, the town was settled largely by ranchers whose hale and hearty pioneer spirit still lingers today. Things are relatively low-key here—especially in summer—with miles of rolling hill country to serve as the setting for all kinds of open-air pursuits. Mountain Resorts is one of the oldest property-management companies in the area, providing spacious, family-friendly condominiums and concierge services from a staff mostly made up of Steamboat Springs natives.

The property encompassed in this deal, the Ranch at Steamboat, lies in the Yampa Valley. The Ranch is distinctly rustic, surrounded by 36 acres of tree-studded hills and featuring wooden decks and wood-burning fireplaces in each condo. Guests enjoy access to outdoor heated pools and hot tubs, and the spacious two-bedroom suites include full kitchens and living rooms with pullout sofas.

Steamboat Springs, Colorado: Historical Ranch Town in the Rockies

Steamboat Springs was named after its roiling mineral springs, which sounded to some early pioneers like a chugging steamboat. It's known as the birthplace of recreational skiing in Colorado thanks to a ski jump built in 1914 by cross-country champion Carl Howelsen. The slopes continue to draw visitors to town, but there's plenty to do in warmer weather. There are more than 50 miles of nature trails and wildflower fields for hiking, several mountain-view golf courses, and high-country lakes and streams that provide ample fishing. One network of rivers even flows through the downtown area, with launch points along the way for seasonal tubing.

Steamboat Springs retains vestiges of its history as a ranching center. Spur-clad cowboys still stroll the main streets, which are lined with western art galleries and clothing boutiques. Throughout the summer, the town hosts a pro rodeo series that includes traditional shows and Wild West–themed block parties. During the 32nd annual Hot Air Balloon Rodeo on July 13 and 14, ranchers will try to one-up each other by performing airborne tricks such as dipping into the lake and hogtieing clouds.

Read the Fine Print for important info on travel dates and other restrictions.

Top Reasons to Stay at The Weller House Inn

• Built in 1886, The Weller House Inn is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The adjacent water tower is the tallest structure in Fort Bragg—climb to the top for city views and whale watching.
• You can stroll through landscaped gardens or tango on Tuesdays or swing dance on Fridays in the 900-square-foot ballroom, which is paneled in California redwood.
• The four available guest rooms are individually decorated with classic furnishings and elegant touches such as hand-painted tiles, stained-glass windows, and clawfoot tubs.
• In the morning, there’s a complimentary breakfast of freshly squeezed orange juice, locally baked breads, organic oatmeal with monukka raisins, organic eggs, jams, and homemade marmalade.
• The Weller House Inn is situated in downtown Fort Bragg, one block from the Skunk Train depot. Board trains here for a ride through acres of virgin redwood forest. Availability can be checked online.

Mendocino Coast, California: Small Towns near Scenic Oceanfront and Redwood Forests

Located about three hours north of San Francisco, Northern California’s Mendocino Coast is a region filled with tiny towns, art colonies, and varied terrain. Within a few minutes of one another are sunlit valleys, fertile vineyards, rocky headlands blanketed by fog, and serene forests of old-growth redwoods. The Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens showcase the area’s native rhododendrons, prickly succulents, and colorful blooms stretching to the ocean.

Partially because of its scenic land- and seascapes, the coast is popular with painters, who gather in artists' collectives such as the Mendocino Art Center. To see the land that inspires the artwork, head to Russian Gulch, Mendocino Headlands, or any of the region’s coastal state parks. At Mendocino Headlands State Park, waves crash into arches, grottos, and stony bluffs; MacKerricher State Park north of Fort Bragg contains dramatic sand dunes.

Read the Fine Print for important info on travel dates and other restrictions.

Tranquil Yoga Retreat in Hawaiian Jungle Overlooking Pacific

Those who believe in the Hawaiian concept of ‘ohana, meaning "extended family," foster a respect for diversity and aspire toward unity. ‘Ohana is found everywhere at Kalani, a nonprofit retreat center located on 120 acres of tropical rainforest on Hawaii’s Big Island.

During this four-night stay for two at Kalani, you’ll get to take one daily yoga class at no extra charge. Kalani’s talented instructors draw on decades of yoga experience, including time spent with eminent yogis around the world. They share a passion for the retreat’s inclusive ethos, welcoming participants of all backgrounds and experience levels.

Between asana poses, you can sample delicious Hawaiian, Thai, and Indian cuisine made with local produce and fresh seafood. Guests can take advantage of the resort’s many relaxing facilities, which include a heated saltwater Watsu pool, 120 acres of rainforest trails, and a 25-meter lap pool.

After admiring the starry sky, retreat to your room in a comfortable hale (pronounced ha-lay)—an eco-friendly, two-level dwelling that lacks TVs, phones, and air conditioning but makes up for it with crisp sea breezes and ocean views.

Read the Fine Print for important info on travel dates and other restrictions.

Three-Country Southern Africa Vacation

Included in all options:

• Round-trip airfare from New York on South African Airways
• Internal airfare and airport transfers in Africa
• Four nights of deluxe studio accommodations at the 5-star Pepper Club Hotel & Spa in Cape Town, with daily breakfast
• Three nights standard accommodations at the 4-star Victoria Falls Safari Lodge with daily breakfast
• Half-day city tour with Table Mountain cable-car tickets in Cape Town (weather permitting)
• Complimentary transfers to the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, and Camps Bay
• Cultural Boma experience in Victoria Falls, with dinner, interactive drumming, and dancing
• Guided tour of Victoria Falls
• Full-day Chobe day tour in Botswana, with river game viewing cruise, lunch, and afternoon safari (Valid only for option 1)
• Airline fees and taxes

Optional extension:

• Two all-inclusive nights in a suite with a private plunge pool at Ngoma Safari Lodge in Botswana with all meals, house beverages, and up to four activities per day
• Transportation from Victoria Falls

On this 10-day vacation, you’ll discover Southern Africa’s rugged and cosmopolitan sides of as you tour historic Cape Town, hike through a rainforest to Victoria Falls, and go on safaris in Botswana.

To see a full itinerary, click here.

Days 1–5: Cape Town, South Africa

On your first full day in Cape Town, you’ll get to know this cosmopolitan city with a half-day tour that includes a visit to Table Mountain. The flat-topped mountain has some of the country’s most scenic views, best admired on a cable-car ride to the top (weather permitting). The next two days are yours to explore Cape Town at your leisure. You might want to spend a day at the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, a working harbor where you’ll find plenty of seafood restaurants and pleasure boats for hire.

Nifty hotel amenities: You’ll stay at Pepper Club Hotel & Spa, which has an 8th-floor pool deck that looks out onto Table Mountain.
Meals: Daily breakfast plus in-flight meals
Travel time: A 16-hour flight from New York

Days 6–10: Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe

Victoria Falls’ combined height and width form the planet’s largest sheet of falling water. You’ll get a chance to see the falls from a number of different vantage points on a guided tour that includes a scenic hike. You'll also spend an evening feasting on Zimbabwean delicacies while watching traditional song and dance performances, while a full-day Chobe safari day tour in Botswana will take you on a river game viewing cruise, and includes lunch and an afternoon safari game drive. On day 9 you'll be transfered to Victoria Falls airport to begin your trip home, arriving on day 10.

Nifty hotel amenity: Standard rooms all have private balconies that overlook Victoria Falls National Park.
Meals: Daily breakfast and one dinner
Travel time: A 3-plus hour flight from Cape Town to Victoria Falls

Optional Days 11–12: Chobe National Park, Botswana

Situated right at the gate to Chobe National Park in Botswana, the all-inclusive Ngoma Safari Lodge is an ideal locale to spot local wildlife. You can take up to four game drives or guided walks each day—be on the lookout for elephants, waterbuck, and giraffes. Ground transfers to Botswana are included.

Nifty hotel amenity: Take a dip in the outdoor pool, which has great views of the Chobe River and surrounding flatlands.
Meals: Daily breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Travel time: A 2-hour drive to and from Victoria Falls.

Read the Fine Print for important info on travel dates and other restrictions.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How much would it cost to fly from an airport not listed as part of this deal?* Call Africa Answers directly at (866) 427-2540 to discuss other departure cities in the U.S.

2. Can we extend our trip before or after the promotional dates for the deal?* Call Africa Answers directly to discuss your travel plans.

3. How do I find out if the dates I want to travel are available?* Call Africa Answers directly and they can check flight availability for you before purchasing your Groupon vouchers.

4. What happens if I buy the Groupon and my travel dates are not available? You will receive a refund per Groupon's Booking Guarantee.

5. Does my child need a Groupon, and can they stay in my room?* Call Africa Answers directly to discuss bringing your children on this Groupon vacation. All travelers will require an airfare and ground arrangements and they can price this out for you directly.

Remote Jungle Hideaway near Pavones Beach

In the Gulf of Dulce along Costa Rica’s southwestern border, a steady torrent of white-capped swells breaks against the coast of Pavones Beach. Just a five-minute walk from the point break, Castillo de Pavones is located on a mountainside perch in the middle of the Costa Rican jungle. The property is extremely remote—the nearest town is more than 30 miles away—but well worth the journey for the surfers who come here to ride the world’s longest left wave. Each deal comes with an activity credit, which you can use toward a surfing trip that explores little-known surf spots, or on a number of other outdoor excursions. Go on a deep-sea fishing trip into the ocean or explore the jungle via horseback ride or on a canopy tour.

The five-story hideaway features a stone façade and rustic timber balconies that blend in nicely with the tropical scenery. On the third, fourth, and fifth floors, you can use your dining credit at the glass-enclosed Blue Morpho Grill & Lounge, which has 360-degree views of the ocean, the jungle canopy, and the bay. The eatery hosts a Brazilian-style buffet some nights, which is packed with all-you-can eat pizza, Costa Rican meals, a salad bar featuring organic vegetables, nuts, fruits, and berries, and platters of jumbo river shrimp, filet mignon, and chicken skewers. From here, guests can climb onto the rooftop deck to gaze at the sea while keeping an eye out for the toucans, monkeys, and scarlet macaws that inhabit the surrounding jungle.

Decked out in natural coral, marble, and stone accents, spacious suites overlook the ocean. Each one contains a two-person jacuzzi tub and a private balcony or patio from which to admire the view. In the morning, a complimentary Costa Rican breakfast can be delivered to guest suites or served in the restaurant; it includes freshly squeezed juices and house-made smoothies.

Pavones, Costa Rica: Far-Flung Beachfront Village with Jungle Wildlife

Although Pavones' world-class surf has attracted its fair share of visitors, the tiny beachfront community remains largely undeveloped thanks to its very remote location in southern Costa Rica. While there are plenty of outdoor activities in and around Pavones—including jungle canopy tours where you might spot scarlet macaws and monkeys—the best way to experience the community is on a surfboard. Pavones Beach gets thick, heavy waves that consistently barrel, a major draw for experienced surfers. The aptly named Rio Claro, which translates to "clear river" in Spanish, winds past Castillo de Pavones' property and empties at the beach. Guests of the hotel often swim, tube, or hitch a ride on a friendly sea turtle down the river.

Read the Fine Print for important info on travel dates and other restrictions.

Hotel at a Glance: Barrows House

Located in the historical district of the quaint Vermont town of Dorset, Barrows House resembles a miniature resort, with separate houses and cottages linked by winding paths. This more-than-200-year-old inn is a within a short drive of golf, hiking, and canoeing.

• Unforgettable rooms: Each room is unique—check out the Wren’s Nest, a standalone white cottage with high ceilings, a gas fireplace, and a two-person whirlpool tub.
• Wake up: The complimentary breakfast features french toast with Vermont maple syrup, sausages, and fresh daily omelets.
• Onsite dining: Get scotch quail eggs, steamed Prince Edward Island mussels, or an oyster po’ boy at the gastropub.
• Go for a stroll: Barrows House is set on 6 acres of gardens and wide, green lawns dotted with old trees, gazebos, and thoughtfully placed benches.
• Don’t miss: The Dorset Theatre Festival (June–August) stages classics such as Barefoot in the Park and award-winning new shows in three historic barn theaters.

Dorset, Vermont: New England Town Surrounded by Forested Mountains

If you’re looking for the quintessential New England village, look no further. The town of Dorset—which Boston Magazine aptly compared to a Thornton Wilder play come to life—has all the necessary elements: clapboard homes, a central town green, a forested backdrop of mountains and valleys, and not a skyscraper in sight. Browse the local stores and you’ll likely come away with an armload of fresh cheese, maple syrup, and warm woolens.

About 20 minutes south of town stands Hildene, a Georgian Revival mansion built by Robert Todd Lincoln, the only child of the 16th president to survive to adulthood. Tours of the home include access to a restored Pullman train car and a herd of nubian goats. Drive just a few miles to the west and you’ll find the Merck Forest & Farmland Center, a beautiful, 3,000-acre stretch of countryside in the Taconic Mountains. Visitors can explore numerous walking trails or take part in farming demonstrations.

The slopes of nearby Stratton and Bromley mountain resorts fill up with skiers in the winter and hikers in the summer. At Stratton, you can ride a gondola to the top of the mountain, which rises to nearly 4,000 feet. On a clear day, the view spans four states and several mountain ranges, including the Berkshires of Massachusetts and the White Mountains of New Hampshire.

Read the Fine Print for important info on travel dates and other restrictions.

Southwestern Dude Ranch Surrounded by Desert Mountains

At Stagecoach Trails Guest Ranch, horses trot across miles of cactus-dotted Arizona desert against a backdrop of the Hualapai, Mohave, and Buck Mountains. Southwestern-style dwellings are scattered across the grounds, where friendly pet dogs are allowed to wander freely. The mood is laid back and family friendly thanks to helpful staff members, many of whom are related and live on the ranch.

The horseback-riding program lets you explore a network of winding desert trails. Experienced wranglers match riders to one of the ranch's many equines for twice-daily treks through rugged natural landscapes of varying difficulty. Solo riders must be at least 8 years old; children aged 6 to 7 can ride with the assistance of a staff member. Stagecoach Trails also offers short, walking horseback rides for younger cowpokes.

Home-cooked meals are served buffet style three times a day in the main Hualapai dining room. Through numerous windows, you can watch the sun chart its daily course over jagged mountaintops. At mealtimes, the courtyard transforms into an alfresco eatery where guests can loll in the sun while nibbling on pecan pie or homemade bread. A large indoor fireplace creates a comfy environment for chitchatting, reading, or crocheting a pair of sunglasses.

As in the dining room, the windows in each guest room act as portals to dazzling mountain scenery. Sunlight pours in on two sides of each room, illuminating blond-wood furnishings and decor inspired by the American Southwest.

Mohave County, Arizona: Old West Desert Towns Lining Historic Route 66

The legendary Route 66 snakes through the rugged desert of Arizona, connecting motorists to a string of once-booming mining villages along the way. Many of these ghost towns have been revived as tourist destinations for fans of the Wild West. One of the cities even hosts staged gunfights.

Stagecoach Trails lies within 50 miles of Lake Havasu City, current home of the famed London Bridge, which was relocated from England in the 1960s. It now sits on Lake Havasu, right along the border of Arizona and California. Numerous boating activities take place on the lake, and landlubbers can soak up the Uptown neighborhood's many shops and restaurants.

Read the Fine Print for important info on travel dates and other restrictions.

Ocean-View Hotel Bordered by Tropical Jungle

Cuna del Angel is surrounded by the tropical rainforest of Costa Rica, just minutes from a coastline of unspoiled Pacific beaches. The resort revels in this pristine natural setting, hosting adventure tours that include whale- and dolphin-watching trips and ziplining adventures through the jungle. Sportfishing is one of the key pastimes in the town of Bahía Ballena, and the hotel has a fully equipped boat and a professional crew available to help its guests scour the ocean for blue marlin and sailfish. Summer is historically the prime season to spot whales near the resort, and this Groupon includes a 15% discount on a whale-watching tour in Ballena National Marine Park. The four-hour tour seeks out humpback whales, pilot whales, and dolphins, and also includes snorkeling.

Inside, the hotel blends the celestial and the earthly: its stained-glass windows and tile mosaics dotted with depictions of angels are set amid furniture fashioned from ecologically grown teak. Subtle decorative touches, such as carved wood details, carry over to 16 deluxe rooms—all of which are named after angels and have adjoining balconies that overlook an infinity pool and either the ocean or the hotel's lush gardens.

At the small, intimate spa, two included relaxing massages with aromatic essential oils soothe muscles overworked from fencing with swordfish. Inside the spa, there’s a turkish steam bath with a choice of grape, chocolate, and algae applications, and specialists can perform a variety of facials and other aesthetic treatments.

Bahía Ballena, Costa Rica: Uncrowded Beaches Surrounded by Forested Mountains

Bahía Ballena, formerly a sleepy fishing village, lies on the south Pacific coast. In the backdrop, forested mountains hover over miles of sandy shores. The beaches here are rather tough to access, which makes them typically uncrowded and more laid-back compared to their counterparts on the central coast.

Surfers often flood the area at high tide to attack the monstrous waves, but plenty of gentle swimming spots offer opportunities to take quick dips and enjoy uninterrupted conversations with local hermit crabs. In the evening, a lively party scene shifts between bars on any given night. Some of these locales host open-jam sessions and dance parties, and others have an easygoing atmosphere that centers on pool and darts.

Tropical jungles surround Bahía Ballena, and several local farms lead horseback tours through forests and orchards. Other hikes wind through jagged mangroves, passing two-tiered waterfalls and petroglyphs.

Read the Fine Print for important info on travel dates and other restrictions.

The cruise includes:

• Breakfast buffet, lunch, and dinner each day
  
• Nightly entertainment
• Welcome cocktail
• Round-trip transfers from Luxor International Airport
• Hotel taxes and port charges

Seven-Day Nile River Cruise in Egypt

When the Nile floods, deposits of silt from the riverbed intermix with the surrounding soil. This simple phenomenon allowed the early Egyptians to cultivate wheat and flax, which in turn sustained one of the world’s oldest civilizations. During this eight-day, seven-night cruise, you’ll visit four ancient cities and historic temples built along the river. Cruises take place aboard one of four five-star ships, each outfitted with restaurants, a swimming pool, and a disco.

Below is a brief rundown of cruise highlights. Click here to see a detailed itinerary.

Days 1–3: Luxor and Edfu

After arriving in Luxor, you’ll be transferred to your ship to settle into a standard, double-occupancy cabin. The rest of the day is yours to explore the various onboard amenities, which might include a sushi restaurant or a wine-and-cheese bar.

Luxor served as Egypt’s religious capital for more than a thousand years, during which time the country saw its most prosperous period to date. On Day 2, you can visit the city’s elaborate temples on your own, or take an optional excursion to the Valley of the Kings, which contains 63 richly decorated tombs of pharaohs and nobles.

From here, the boat journeys south to the city of Edfu, home to one of the largest and most immaculately preserved temples in Egypt: the Temple of Horus. It dates back to 237 BC and is lined with relief sculptures that are still intact.

Days 4–5: Aswan

You’ll have two full days to explore the desert city of Aswan, a historic trade center that was once the gateway to Africa. Located on a picturesque stretch of the Nile, Aswan is now a popular resort town known for its traditional wooden sailboats and palm-fringed islands. A number of exciting excursions are offered in Aswan, including a leisurely camel ride through town. On Day 5, you can take a trip to Abu Simbel, an archaeological site with magnificent statues that tower up to 70 feet.

Days 6–8: Aswan, Kom Ombo, and Edfu

The cruise makes one last stop in Kom Ombo before heading back to Luxor. Surrounded by cornfields and cattle farms, this agricultural town is famous for the Temple of Kom Ombo, a perfectly symmetrical double temple that Travel + Leisure calls “the most breathtaking ruin on the Nile.”

Read the Fine Print for important info on travel dates and other restrictions.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. In airfare included in this deal? Sorry, airfare is not included.

2. Can we extend our trip before or after the promotional dates for the deal?* Yes! Many travelers extend their vacations to include a trip to see the Pyramids and other sites. Please inquire with Beyond Boundaries at booking by calling (800) 487-1136.

3. What happens if I buy the Groupon and my travel dates are not available? All sailing dates offered are guaranteed availability.

4. Does my child need a Groupon, and can they stay in my room? If your child is traveling with two adults, then you do not need to purchase a Groupon for them. You will be invoiced separately by Beyond Boundaries for children packages with discounts.

Hotel at a Glance: Bayside Golf Club

Few will stumble upon the Bayside Golf Club by sheer happenstance. Tucked into the rugged wilderness near the western Nebraska village of Brule (population 326), the resort provides a golf oasis in an otherwise harsh land, and is usually found by those who were already looking for it. When you get there, you’ll discover a links-style course with views overlooking wide expanses of unruly terrain, 60-foot drops in elevation, unforgiving arroyos, and signature holes with nicknames such as “Humility” and “Forever.”

• A room with a view: Four-bedroom suites and log cabins overlook the 10th hole, with stunning views of the course or Lake McConaughy.
• Nifty in-room amenities: Four-bedroom suites have separate living room areas with flat-screen TVs.
• Press Mention: Read this feature article on the golf course by _Links Golf _ magazine to get a sense of the 11th hole’s “brutal beauty.”
• Onsite dining: The resort club house serves up famous Nebraska steaks.
• Eye to the sky: Eagles soar high above this open stretch of land, looking for their next snack.

Brule, Nebraska: Small-Town Charm Close to Historic Ogallala

Named for the 5,000 Brule Sioux Native Americans who lived on the land in the 19th century, Brule has drawn a tight-knit community of farmers by way of the Union Pacific Railroad. Many come to town for the fishing and birding along Lake McConaughy, a man-made lake formed in the 1930s. Note that the locals refer to it as “Lake Mac” or “Big Mac.”

Nine miles away, the comparatively cosmopolitan town of Ogallala reflects the history of the American West. A stop on the infamous Pony Express, the city served as the terminus for cattle drives marching up from Texas to the rails. Ogallala keeps the memory of its wild oats alive with Front Street, a fun replica of the old town.

Read the Fine Print for important info on travel dates and other restrictions.

All-Inclusive Beachfront Resort in Tropical Garden Setting

From its idyllic beachfront spot in Playa del Carmen on the Yucatán Peninsula, the all-inclusive Reef Playacar Resort and Spa gives guests the chance to explore this scenic region, even offering several cultural and adventure tours (extra fee). A few hours west is the iconic Mayan step pyramid at Chichén Itzá, named one of the new Seven Wonders of the World. Back along the coast, you can take a Caribbean cruise on a replica of a 17th-century Spanish galleon or schedule some time at the local dolphinarium to play, swim, and kiss a dolphin. And when you just want to relax, you can simply walk down to the beach and dig your toes into the sand.

The forest canopy shades the resort’s 18 villas and their standard rooms in a tropical, jungle-like setting. Paths connecting the villas to the beach meander beneath palm trees amid the sounds of singing birds. While the resort is just steps away from Playa del Carmen’s famous 5th Avenue pedestrian area, the resort offers all-inclusive dining and nightlife options, including one fine-dining restaurant and both a buffet and an a la carte restaurant. Enjoy alfresco Italian cuisine at the onsite Botticelli restaurant or cool off at the ice-cream parlor, located beside a natural cenote. During the day, feel free to use the resort’s complimentary sea kayaks and snorkel gear to explore the Yucatán coastline.

Playa del Carmen, Mexico: Trendy Beach Area and Diving Destination

Just across the sea from the island of Cozumel, Playa del Carmen has been called "the hippest city in all of the Yucatán Peninsula" by Lonely Planet. The laid-back beach bars and cafés have a way of converting vacationers into expats, but Playa's most compelling draw might be its cenotes—cavernous sinkholes filled with turquoise pools. The water in the cenotes is crystal clear, particularly at the lily-pad-dotted Xlacah cenote, where you can snorkel among schools of colorful fish.

To the south, you'll find preserved ruins of pre-Columbian cities. Tulum's crumbling temples are situated above a dramatic ocean bluff, and Coba's enormous pyramid rises between two lagoons. For a fun day trip, hop aboard the ferry to Cozumel, which docks less than two miles from the hotel at the pier east of Calle 1. There are about a dozen dive shops on Cozumel, and they offer trips offshore to the reefs that Jacques Cousteau declared some of the world's most beautiful.

Read the Fine Print for important info on travel dates and other restrictions.

Whitewater Thrills and Comfortable Camping in Idaho

The Middle Fork of the Salmon River in central Idaho cuts through more than 100 miles of rugged wilderness, flowing past towering trees, wildflowers, and craggy mountains. Among rafters, it’s known as a Class IV river, with a few rapids reaching Class V level in high water. On this six-day whitewater-rafting trip from Adventure Guides, up to 24 adventurers take on the Middle Fork, spending their days alternating between rushing through roaring rapids and enjoying the scenery during calm stretches. Throughout the trip, rafters may have the opportunity to fly-fish, hike, and soak in hot springs. Along the way, experienced crew members deftly navigate the waterway and handle all of the logistics to ensure a comfortable trip. For detailed information on the best way to reach Stanley, Idaho—the trip's launch point—visit the transportation page. Click here to see the full six-day itinerary.

Before the trip: At 6 p.m. on the day before launching, crew members meet with guests for orientation in the conference room at the Mountain Village Lodge in Stanley, Idaho. Guides provide a detailed breakdown of the trip and hand out waterproof packs, day bags, and sleeping gear.

Day 1: The group sets out from Stanley toward Boundary Creek or Indian Creek, depending on weather and water conditions. Before putting the rafts in the water, Adventure Guides and the US Forest Service hold a safety briefing. The first day's ride is shallow and steep, and the group pauses for a break along the riverbank for lunch.

That night—and each night for the rest of the trip—a supply boat runs ahead to set up camp for the evening. By the time the rafts arrive at the site, the crew will have already arranged everything you need, including the campfire, kitchen, tents, and s’mores tasting room. You can while away the evening by swimming, hiking, fishing, or playing games. Starting at 6 p.m., an hour of hors d'oeuvres and beverages is followed by a dinner that can include dutch-oven potatoes, baked salmon, stuffed chicken, or rib-eye steak. Fresh baked treats are on hand for dessert.

Days 2–5: Each morning, guides start a campfire and set out a continental breakfast. At about 8 a.m., they whip up a hot meal, often comprising potatoes, omelets, french toast, and pancakes. You can choose a vessel to ride in from a fleet of oar boats, paddleboats, and inflatable kayaks. Before and after lunch, the group negotiates rapids, hops overboard for the occasional dip in a swimming hole, and, of course, admires the views. The water is relatively calm on the second and third days, but picks up speed on days four–six. Lunch is included each day, and on the second and fourth nights you can take a refreshing sun shower.

Day 6: After an early rise, the flotilla faces its biggest challenge: a stretch of whitewater known as "Impassable Canyon." After the confluence of the main branch of the Salmon, the boats cruise 4 more miles to the endpoint at Cache Bar. The crew packs up the boats and sets out a final lunch before guests board the bus back to Stanley.

Read the Fine Print for important info on travel dates and other restrictions.

Sports-Themed Hotel Close to Scenic UNC Campus

Chartered as America’s first state college in 1789, the University of North Carolina is embedded in the identity of its hometown, Chapel Hill. The school’s picturesque, tree-shaded campus sits in the center of the downtown area. Multitudes of visitors come each year to cheer on the Tar Heel sports teams, especially the men's basketball squad, which has won six national championships.

The school’s familiar sky-blue banner with an interlocking NC logo hangs above the front desk at the comfy Chapel Hill University Inn, located 2 miles south of the university. A complimentary shuttle service departs every hour to designated sites on campus and downtown attractions, too.

Seventeen high-definition TVs show Tar Heel games at the hotel’s adjoining Time-Out Sports Bar and Restaurant. The eatery serves standard pub food punctuated by Southern favorites, including Carolina-style pulled pork and a famous chicken-and-cheddar biscuit that was profiled on Travel Channel’s Man v. Food. You can use pool tables and video games to fill the competitive void left behind when there is no Carolina basketball, soccer, or catfish wrestling on TV.

The inn’s clean, comfortable guest rooms overlook a central courtyard; in warm weather, guests can head to the courtyard to soak up sunshine from an adirondack chair or take dips in the outdoor pool.

Chapel Hill, North Carolina: Southern College Town with Lively Main Street

Locals refer to Chapel Hill as "the southern part of heaven,” and it’s hard to disagree, especially on an idyllic sunny day on Franklin Street, the main campus drag. Coffee shops, cafés, and bookstores line the charming street, and green space abounds in this area, from the wide-open grassy quad areas to the university’s scenic Coker Arboretum. Diehard Tar Heel fans can take a short walk through campus to find the Carolina Basketball Museum, where artifacts, photos, and videos detail the program’s illustrious history.

Just a few minutes’ walk down Franklin Street, crowds thin and there's more of a more bohemian atmosphere as Chapel Hill merges with the neighboring township of Carrboro. Travelers with access to a set of wheels or a sled pulled by a cross-country team may also want to explore the beautiful rolling farmland outside the town limits; at the Maple View Farm Country Store, for example, you can enjoy an ice-cream cone on its wide front porch.

Read the Fine Print for important info on travel dates and other restrictions.

Tropical Resort Tucked Away on Quiet, Private Beach

On a map, Antigua is a speck located to the southeast of Puerto Rico. But what it lacks in size, it makes up in scenery—the forested hills covering the island’s interior give way to white-sand beaches and turquoise waters bordering the coastal city of St. John's. The secluded and tranquil Coconut Beach Club sits on an isolated peninsula just west of town, where the noise is minimal and the pace is slow. It’s a place where guests come to relax, whether they’re getting pampered in the thatched-roof spa or lounging on the beach that’s right at their doorstep.

Junior suites have cheery Caribbean decor, including floral-patterned bedspreads, textured walls, and bright accents. Each suite has a breezy balcony or patio where you can take in the seaside views from a pair of adirondack chairs. This getaway includes an optional food-and-beverage plan with daily breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea, dinner, and local drinks, including Wadadli beer from Antigua Brewery, nonpremium spirits, and house wines by the glass.

Antigua: Colonial History Blended with Laid-Back Island Charm

On Antigua—the largest of the British Leeward Islands—you can visit a different beach every day of the year. The island has 365 of them, some of which were named by Frommer's as the Caribbean's best. The powder-soft sands draw celebrities including Oprah Winfrey, Eric Clapton, and Giorgio Armani, who have built sprawling estates amid the locals’ thatched-roof bungalows. In the northwest, Dickenson Bay offers something for every type of beachgoer: here you’ll find umbrellas and loungers, glass-bottom boat tours, and fast-paced watersports. There's an equally lovely landscape beneath the waves—just offshore, Cades Reef shelters barracuda, eels, eagle rays, and nurse sharks.

Like other isles of the British West Indies, Antigua retains a lot of English culture from its days as a colony, including a pervasive love of cricket and traditional afternoon teatime. You can see a lot of the island's colonial roots in the capital city, St. John's, where Fort Barrington served as an important military defense post for the British Royal Navy as far back as 1652. Today, the stronghold still boasts a powder magazine and gun platform along with some of the most panoramic views in the Caribbean.

The island's distinct culture shines through in the cuisine, which includes conch fritters and cornmeal fungi, a dish similar to polenta. You can sample local flavors at St. John's Saturday-morning market, where vendors sell pineapple, breadfruit, and tamarind. Next door, a smaller market showcases crafts, jewelry, and parrots modeling the season's hottest feather extensions.

Read the Fine Print for important info on travel dates and other restrictions.

Thatched-Roof Villas near Unspoiled Beaches on Quiet Pacific Coast

About 50 miles north of rowdy Cabo San Lucas, Los Cerritos Beach's sparsely populated white-sand coast shows a quieter side of the Baja California Sur peninsula. Here, the Mayan-inspired Cerritos Surf Colony and its freestanding villas face one of the only swimmable-and-surfable beaches in the area. The ocean's steady swells and predictable whitewater make the crescent-shaped beach a favored spot for surfers and celebrities.

White loungers surround the resort's 100-foot outdoor pool, which features a lengthy swim-up bar where up to 18 patrons or a flock of thirsty pelicans can grab drinks. Nearby, surf instructors impart their know-how during lessons at Cerritos Beach Club & Surf. After hanging ten, guests can pop into the Beach Club restaurant for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. On Sundays, the club features live music.

The two-bedroom standalone villas are located beachside, between stubby palmettos and towering palm trees. Inside each thatched-roof hut you’ll find an upscale interior adorned with wicker furniture and hand-painted Mexican tiles.

Todos Santos, Baja California Sur: Surfing, Jet Skiing, and Seaside Horseback Riding

Thanks to the enormous size of Los Cerritos Beach, there’s plenty of room to zip around on ATVs or go horseback riding alongside the ocean. Jet skiing and kayaking are also popular. From December through April, beachcombers can spot migrating gray whales and their newborns splashing in the waves offshore.

The Todos Santos artist colony is about a 10-minute drive from the hotel. Founded as a mission in 1724, the seaside town grew as a sugar-cane production center and then became popular with farmers growing poblano chilies, avocados, papayas, and mangos. In the last decade, Todos Santos has become a hub for artists, who ply their wares at boutiques and galleries touting handmade sculptures, paintings, and other work.

Read the Fine Print for important info on travel dates and other restrictions.

Resort with Tropical Pool near World-Class Surfing

During the California gold rush, would-be prospectors often passed through San Juan del Sur, a shipping town on Nicaragua’s western coast, where they would catch a boat to California. Nowadays, the village is prized for its waves rather than the ships that once rode them. Dozens of beaches dot the coastline, each with a roaring surf break. Just north of San Juan del Sur and about 10 minutes inland, the Mango Rosa Nicaragua resort forms a home base for surfing trips and other adventures throughout the region.

At the resort’s surf school, instructors intimately familiar with local shores lead excursions to the best breaks and teach intro lessons on body positioning. With the adventure package (included with options four, five, and six), you can participate in two excursions, such as a horseback-riding tour of local beaches. Other choices include a guided jungle hike to beaches featured on Survivor: Nicaragua and Survivor: Redemption Island and a tour of San Juan del Sur.

Back at the hotel, a lagoon-style pool offers a more low-key chance to take a dip. Thanks to a sloped entryway and rounded ledges, the pool blends into the surrounding foliage of fruit trees, palms, and blooming bougainvillea. Standalone one-bedroom bungalows hide throughout the 7-acre grounds, each equipped with a private terrace, vaulted ceilings, rattan furniture, and a full kitchen.

The onsite Grand Rancho Bar/Restaurant serves American and Nicaraguan favorites. Along with local beers and Flor de Caña rum, the eatery serves up casual eats such as chicken fajitas and filet mignon sandwiches topped with mango and avocado.

San Juan del Sur, Nicaragua: Isthmus of Jungle with Surf-Friendly Bays

Since San Juan del Sur’s surfing boom in the 1990s, the surrounding region has become popular with backpackers due to its jungle-lined coves and inexpensive lifestyle. Between trips to the beach, Lake Nicaragua, located about 30 minutes inland, is worth a visit. Here, hundreds of tiny islands formed by the Mombacho Volcano dot the vast freshwater surface. You can also sail out to the much larger Ometepe Island, home to the active Concepción Volcano and full of howler monkeys eager to discuss the latest edition of Curious George.

Read the Fine Print for important info on travel dates and other restrictions.

Hotel at a Glance: Lothair Retreats

Lothair Retreats is tucked away in the Appalachian Mountains of northeast West Virginia. The resort overlooks a two-acre lake, where guests can swim, fish, and boat in the warmer months. Tucked away in the woods, Lothair’s individual, luxury cabins are inspired by French cottages; inside, you’ll find a fireplace, dining area, and kitchenette.

• Nifty amenity: Sauna house on the lakeshore
• Eco-friendly living: The property has geothermal heating and cooling; cabins are currently being updated with energy-efficient windows
• Included perk: Two oz. of tea and 1/2-lb of gourmet coffee
• Nearby attraction: Edwards Run Wildlife Management Area, where you can fish for trout or hunt for deer, squirrel, and turkey
• Outdoor activities: for an additional cost, guests can enjoy guided hikes, archery lessons, camping, and fishing equipment rentals

Capon Bridge, West Virginia: Rustic Mountain Town near State Parks and Civil War History

Located in the upper northeast corner of West Virginia, Capon Bridge is a small town of about 350 people on the shores of the Cacapon River. The surrounding area is rife with American history. About 50 miles north, Fort Frederick State Park houses a stone fort that served as a frontier defense during the French and Indian War in the mid-1750s. The fort’s stone walls and barracks have been restored to their original appearance. Here, you can hike, picnic, tour the fort, or bicycle on the Western Maryland Rail Trail, which winds near the fort.

Less than 60 miles away, you can tour Antietam National Battlefield, the historic site of the deadliest one-day battle in the Civil War. Watch an introductory film and explore the museum exhibits in the Visitor Center before embarking on a self-guided 8.5-mile auto tour of the park. You can also join a park ranger for a battlefield talk.

Read the Fine Print for important info on travel dates and other restrictions.