YO PHILLY! HAPPY NEW YEAR
The buy: Close to two dozen Philadelphia hotels are offering specials to ring in the New Year.
The savings: The two-night packages, with rates ranging from $99 to $264 (U.S.) a night, includes free parking, two tickets to the Blue Cross RiverRink at Penn's Landing, a buy-one, get-one cheesesteak deal and a 3 p.m. checkout.
The catch: The package is available Dec. 31 and Jan. 1 only.
Why it's worth it: New Year's Day in Philadelphia features one of the most colourful annual traditions in America - the Mummers parade. See hundreds of musicians and marchers in elaborate costumes in an event that dates back to before the American Revolution.
Book it: Visit www.visitphilly.com.
CRUISE AWAY FROM HOLIDAY STRESS
The buy: Carnival Cruise Lines has a one-week western Caribbean cruise on sale leaving New Year's Day from Miami.
The savings: With interior staterooms at $499 and balconies available for $699, it is hundreds less than the same cruise in mid-February.
The catch: Airfare is not included.
Why it's worth it: You can swim with the stingrays in Grand Cayman, snorkel in Cozumel and shop in Ocho Rios during the week.
Book it: Visit www.carnival.com.
RING IN 2011 ON THE BEACH
The buy: Transat Holidays is offering one week at the all-inclusive Las Palmas by the Sea in Puerto Vallarta for $598, departing Toronto Dec. 30.
The savings: Almost $500 less than the Dec. 27 departure.
The catch: $283 in taxes and fees is not included.
Why it's worth it: This beachfront property is all-inclusive but is also close to downtown Puerto Vallarta with its lively restaurant scene for those who want a change of pace.
Book it: Transat Holidays sells through travel agents or visit www.transatholidays.com.
Book it: Visit www.nolitours.com.
BERMUDA IN THE PINK
The buy: The Royal Palms Hotel, Bermuda, is offering a holiday-season package with room rates starting at $199 (U.S.) a night, double occupancy.
The savings: 50 per cent.
The catch: The rate is valid through Jan. 2.
Why it's worth it: This boutique hotel has won a Bermuda Tourism award and the 32-room property is made up of two gorgeous, pink 19th-century manor houses.
Book it: Call 441-292-1854 or visit www.royalpalms.bm.
CELEBRATE WITH FIREWORKS IN VEGAS
The buy: Sunwing is offering three- and four-night getaways to Las Vegas over the holidays. There's a three-night deal at Circus Circus, departing Dec. 30, from $695. More hotel packages are also available.
The savings: At least 20 per cent compared with booking air and hotel separately.
The catch: $247 in taxes and fees is not included.
Why it's worth it: Las Vegas is even more alive than usual on New Year's Eve as the Strip launches a spectacular fireworks show from the roofs of the MGM Grand, Aria, Planet Hollywood, Caesars Palace, Treasure Island, the Venetian and the Stratosphere.
Book it: Visit www.sunwing.ca.
Special to The Globe and Mail