St. Petersburg, Fl - January, $1034

I know we're still enjoying August heat, but you know the winter will come. You know January will leave you asking "why? Why do we live on the prairies?"

You may wish to book now, save yourself some money and ensure you have something to look forward to this winter. If you're just starting to explore the globe, or looking for a safe, sunny, domestic destination, Florida is an excellent choice.

I spied this bargain on redtag.ca but you can book through Sunwing Vacations, www.selloffvacations.com or ANY local travel agent.  St. Petersburg is on the gulf side of Florida. It has a laid back feel and has shops and beaches and boardwalks to explore.

Start your reading on St. Petersburg Florida, here.

This particular Sunwing Vacation includes a direct, charter flight, and 7 nights accommodations at a 4.5 star hotel. It's not an all-inclusive package, but that's never stopped me. Why pay for mass-produced buffet food and alcohol of questionable quality?

Any package that includes air, taxes and deluxe accommodation for 7 nights, about $1000 is a good deal. While I personally prefer to fly Westjet, Delta, or Air Canada (in that order) thousands of satisfied Canadians get on & off Sunwing planes each day.

The Grand Plaza Hotel is directly on the beach. A short stroll from many activities and restaurants. Be sure to read the latest Trip Advisor reviews before you book. Always see what real travellers are saying.

Yes, there are always going to be bargains in Florida. It's a tourist mecca. It is MORE common to find deals in the child-friendly Orlando area. Less common to see Tampa/St. Pete bargains or destinations on the Gulf side.

Another Florida destination, now served by Westjet Airlines is the Fort Myers area. It's an gorgeous and highly recommended area which I hope to visit myself soon.

Trip Advisor comments from August 2014

Bank on Bermuda

Let's just admit that this prairie winter has worn out its welcome. If I wake up one more morning to the sound of snow plows and reports of another storm on the way, I'm making a dash to the airport. Wouldn't you? And wouldn't you just truly love to jet away for a few days and leave it all behind?

I know I would. This got me to thinking, and dreaming and clicking. I present to you, three locations and three different prices, all on the same dates and same airline.

I chose Ottawa (YOW) because of Canada's stellar day at the Olympics. Where else would you go when you are bursting with patriotism and love for our country? The nation's capital, of course! The return Westjet flight would cost $662.31 taxes in. This isn't a terrible price, for a last minute domestic flight.

Next, I selected a destination in sunny California.  I chose Palm Springs. $886.87 was the price. That seems excessive, since the site is featuring California as its front page promotion. But, again, it is a last minute price.

Then a litte ad in the corner caught my eye. "Save 15% off travel to Bermuda" it said. And since Bermuda has long been on my wish list, I used it for my third comparable.  And guess what I found? An incredible bargain! A last minute flight for $410.69! That's less than half the price of Palm Springs, and coincidentally, in a similar climate category of about 65-75F this time of year.  They also both boast a number of fantastic golf courses. 

 

The Bermuda Tourism site is quick to capture your attention with photos of pink sand beaches, rich culture, island cuisine and the promise of a relaxing vacation. I probably spent 2 hours on the site, and gazing at pictures on the net.  If I were on a plane, I'd already be half way to Bermuda by now!

This being their winter season, a number of hotel deals were offered, including 3rd night free promotions with Fairmont. 

This mental vacation from today's blast of winter, was exactly what I needed. 

Bermuda sure seems like my kind of place! 

If it's also your kind of place, you have until the end of February to take advantage of the 15% off sale with Westjet. Air Canada has matched the savings and offers even more flights to Bermuda.

Thanksgiving on the train

Imagine the gorgeous fall colours of the prairies by rail! VIA Rail has some sweet escape prices if you book now.  These are one way fares, departing Saturday October 12th, from Winnipeg.