The word "ritz" -- when we're not talking about crackers -- sounds posh, doesn't it? This week's Smart Deal sends you to Puerto Rico, courtesy of Liberty Travel (tel. 877/824-5555; www.libertytravel.com). More specifically, it's a an air-inclusive trip with four nights at the Ritz-Carlton -- all for a starting price of $589.
This beachfront Puerto Rico hotel, in Isla Verde near San Juan, comes with all the indulgences you'd expect at a Ritz-Carlton: a spa, pool and Jacuzzi, a 24-hour casino, twice-daily housekeeping, fresh coffee all day, wide-ranging cuisine served at its restaurants, and views of the ocean, garden, pool, or the city. Many rooms have balconies.
Puerto Rico is vibrant and fun-loving, so when you want a change of pace from the ocean or the pool, just head to Old San Juan. With its cobblestone streets and an impressive concentration of art museums, you'll gawk at cathedrals and historic colonial architecture.
Trip Type: Air-inclusive; independent
What the Quoted Price Gets You: Round-trip airfare from Miami to San Juan, four nights at the Ritz-Carlton San Juan Spa & Casino, airline fuel surcharges, hotel taxes, and service charges.
What Else You'll Have to Pay: Air taxes and fees of up to an additional $250.
When: July 1-Nov. 6
Book By: Nov. 1, 2010
Other Details: Kids 17 and under stay free, plus with this deal, your fourth night at the Ritz-Carlton is free.
Departures are also possible from a number of other gateways, including Baltimore and Chicago (from $599); New York (from $629); Los Angeles (from $775) and Seattle (from $865).
All prices are per person and, if lodging is a component of the package, based upon two people traveling together (unless otherwise noted). The prices listed are general starting rates; see "What Else You'll Have to Pay" for details about associated taxes and fees. Base-prices, taxes, and fees can vary based on point of departure and time of travel. Trip add-ons like sightseeing tours and meal plans may also increase the price. Check with the tour operator for additional gateways and any single supplements, which is the extra cost that a solo traveler would pay to book the deal.
Talk with fellow Frommer's travelers on our Puerto Rico forum.