Why Jan./Feb. is a great time to get winter deals
Early January - mid February is the timeframe during the winter season when travelers will find the most value. It's the slower period after the holiday crowds, but before schools start letting out for Spring Break. You'll find destinations from ski areas to beach resorts offering incentives for travelers to take advantage of during this time.
Ski Destinations
·In January you can save up to 40% at major resorts like Breckenridge, Aspen and Tahoe.
·Chicago to Breckenridge, CO: Airfare + 4 nights + car rental, staying at the Village at Breckenridge Resort (ski-in/ski-out; just underwent major renovation), for $587/per person (last weekend in Jan.). Compare this to a weekend mid-March, when the price for the same package jumps to $750/pp.
January has also been deemed "Learn to Ski & Snowboard Month" and resorts in over 30 states have fantastic deals on ski lessons and even lift tickets for the whole family. Examples:
Northstar-at-Tahoe - For the same price as an adult all-day lift ticket, guests can purchase the Parent Predicament ticket and take turns on the slopes. As one parent takes a few runs, the other stays with the child until they're ready to switch.
At Vail Mountain (CO) in Colorado you can buy three consecutive days of adult group lessons for the price of two.
Caribbean/Mexico
Travelers will find great winter promotions in these destinations, such as kids stay free and 4th night free.
Chicago to Cancun: Airfare + 4 nights at the 4-Star Omni Cancun Hotel & Villas, beachfront resort, for $569/pp. AND Kids up to 12, stay and eat for FREE.
Cruises
January is what's known as "wave season" in the cruise industry, it's their prime booking time for the year, and also the time when cruise lines launch major sales and promotions. There are also a number of huge new ships debuting - from the Disney Dream to Royal Caribbean's Allure of the Seas - which means more inventory for travelers to choose from - and more rooms the cruises need to sell.
·3 Night Caribbean Cruise: Sail on Royal Caribbean's Majesty of the Seas for 3 Nights, stopping in Nassau and Cococay (the cruiseline's private island), for just $199/pp for an oceanview room. Sail dates Jan 14, 21, 28. Add in rt airfare from Chicago from $189. Total cost - $388/pp
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