Last Minute Travel Getaways for Valentine’s Day

PHOTO//Caribbean360

By ANTHONY GADALETA

ELMWOOD PARK – Valentine’s Day calls for romantic dinners, boxes of chocolate, bouquets of flower assortments. But what if you wanted to snag a deal on a last minute getaway and pack your bags to just escape it all for the weekend.

Travelers planning a last minute getaway should look out for hidden fees at their designated accommodation, ensure not to overspend and bring the amount of money necessary to travel, and search for special packages and promos that give couple discounts for one night to a weekend stay.

Here you’ll find some top recommendations and insider tips from travel experts on how to plan the ideal getaway.

Visit Miami, Florida for turquoise water beaches, laying under palm trees and soaking up the sun, or perhaps bask in the amenities of its many elegant accommodations that are located right on the water or inter-coastal waterways. You’ll find Latin-infused culture, an inviting tropical atmosphere, art-deco design, premier shopping, impeccable dining, and much more! According to Skyscanner, flights can be as low as $94.

Visit magnificent European destinations such as London, Paris, Dublin, Frankfort, & even Zurich with American Airlines who are having a special promo deal called “Fall in Love With Europe” where roundtrip flights are as low as $288, according to Frommers. For eligibility and booking, travelers must book between Feb 5 to 28 to ensure their travel promo is applied to their trip and be forever captivated by Europe’s history and splendor.

Visit Santa Barbara, California, a sophisticated yet affordable option in the low season that brings travelers from around the country and the world time and time again. Only two hours by car from Los Angeles International Airport, a world of rejuvenation awaits. According to Conde Nast Traveler, you can find options from just $319 for two nights if you’re on a budget to $585 if you want to have it all and take in Southern California luxury.

Visit Virginia’s Wine Country at the Lansdowne Resort for exclusive spa packages and dining experiences that will leaving a lasting impression on anyone’s palate. According to Destination Hotels, you’ll find discounted rates and can even enter for a sweepstakes that gives you two free nights, spa treatment, complimentary breakfast and golfing for two. Rates start from $135.

Travel Experts’ Opinions

Corrado Gadaleta, 42, of Blueteam Travel Group, said, “Last minute is usually the most expensive option when it comes to flight and hotel for any holiday, including Valentine’s Day in particular. It’s usually due to availability and the fact that most promos require advance purchase. So generally, it’s possible if you want to splurge a bit, but I would highly recommend booking your trip months to even a year in advance depending if you’re traveling domestically or internationally”.

PHOTO//BlueteamTravelGroup

Blueteam Travel Group is based in Como, Italy and he works in the Jersey City office remaining in constant contact with airlines and accommodations across the globe ensuring people get the trip and price they want when they are looking to book a getaway in advance or on a moment’s notice. He has been at Blueteam since 2011.

Judy Pullen, 60, a travel coordinator, based in Los Angeles, California manages clients who need to book flights and trips locally in the United States to anywhere around the world. She’s lived and worked in Dubai, been to many destinations around the country and the world, a globetrotter a heart, and currently lives near the beach in Santa Monica planning out her next travel venture.

“Travel has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember. Living in Dubai gave me a new perception of the world and how they view things. When it comes to arranging flights and hotels for getaways or long vacations, it’s best to plan months in advance,” Pullen said. “I’d even tell you a year if you’re going to Dubai or anywhere out of the US. Traveling last minute on a budget is doable for holidays in general. I would strongly suggest making sure your trip is suitable for you to travel depending on the distance and making sure not to overspend. Watch out for hidden fees and resort fees!”

2 Comments

  1. I liked how you incorporated recommendations as well as expert opinions on where to travel, as well as the many deals that people can get. I would love to know more about hidden fees and how to figure out where to cut costs or splurge.

  2. I was curious how far in advance you think arrangements should be made- without breaking the bank?

    I really enjoy how your story was structured. It was very easy for the reader to follow and gave great ideas for affordable destinations. Great story:)

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