The specific promotions described in this article have now passed, but it remains online so that the resources named will be of future use to travelers.
July 9, 2004 -- Thanksgiving tops even Christmas for the highest number of travelers for any holiday. While most are packing up to visit family (where they'll pack it in at the dinner table), there are those who take advantage of the long weekend and squeeze in a vacation. If you don't want to go too far from home, we've found a couple of domestic lodging offers; if you're interested in something further-afield, we've got that, too.
Up North
Just in time for ski-season, resorts in Stratton, Vermont, have some nice Thanksgiving packages starting from $59 per person per day (based on double occupancy). You book a Thursday through Sunday stay, and they give you Wednesday night as well, which means another day of skiing -- for free. If that deal doesn't turn you on, consider this non-holiday offer: If you purchase a three-day, midweek ticket for $144, you get two nights of free lodging at the Liftline Lodge. Lodge upgrades are available for the Inn at Stratton Mountain and for condominiums like the Long Trail House. There's also a "Kids Ski & Stay Free" deal -- call them for details. Their contact is www.stratton.com or phone 800/787-2886.
Down South
The Ballastone Inn in Savannah will probably do its fabulous Thanksgiving dinner again, says Jennifer, the innkeeper. Last year, they charged only $40 for a southern-style spread that included collards, fresh ham, biscuits, turkey, cornbread dressing and oyster stuffing, along with plenty of pecan and pumpkin pies, red chiffon cakes, ambrosia and champagne. This year, the price is still under debate, as they were definitely underpriced in 2003. Zagat listed this inn, which Kevin Spacey says is his favorite, as "Best in Georgia". Room prices start at $195 and go up to $355 (suites are higher). Prices include a daily full breakfast, Sunday champagne brunch, afternoon tea service, evening hors d'oeuvres and off-street parking. Contact them at 800/822-4553 or visit www.ballastone.com.
In Old Europe
A Thanksgiving weekend in Vienna starts from $499 with Crown Travel through the Travel Hub. This price includes roundtrip air from New York, four nights at the Eventhotel Pyramide (www.austria-trend.at/epw), daily breakfast and airport/hotel/airport transfers. This already discounted price is only for those paying by check or money order. If you use a credit card, they say they cannot offer you the discount so the price will be a bit higher. The hotel is in the southern part of the city and is rated first-class by the operator. Each room has private bath, minibar, hair dryer, satellite TV, direct dial phone, safe, and modem connection. Contact the organizers through www.travelhub.com or Crown Travel directly at 800/853-6453. Crown's website is www.crown-travel.com.