The words "girlfriend getaways," instantly conjure up images of traveling somewhere to have a slumber party, complete with an evening full of painting each other's toenails and doing each other's hair and eating lots of chocolate. A bit juvenile and stereotypical, yes, but getting away with your closest gal pals can have its rewards, and your trip does not have to be so scripted. It's not uncommon, for example, for a bride-to-be and her bridesmaids to go somewhere overnight (or longer) to bond before the big day, a 21st century version of a bachelorette party. Traveling with girlfriends though can take any form, so we've rounded up some trips, deals and promotions with all kinds of appeal, whether it's luxurious and indulgent or adventurous and active.
Adventures in Good Company (tel. 877/439-4042; www.adventuresingoodcompany.com) recently posted its winter and spring 2007 trips, which range from dogsledding near Lake Superior, howling with wolves in Minnesota, exploring Baja, and climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro, and more. Currently there is still space on the multi-activity trip "Exploring the Low Country" of Savannah, GA and Charleston, SC, from October 22-29, priced at $1,895. It includes all lodging, guides, most meals, transportation, and entrance and activity fees. A bike tour of Savannah is offered, along with opportunities to explore the town's architecture and Civil War history. Kayaking, horseback riding, nature trails are just some of the possible activities; inns and hotels are the accommodations.
Or opt for the slightly more rugged Navajo Land Trek (www.adventuresingoodcompany.com/trip_descriptions/Navajo.html), October 2-9 in Canyon de Chelly in Arizona. It's a hiking trip in an area that allows you to explore an ancient culture designed for women in moderate physical shape. The trip is priced at $1,250 and includes guide services, two nights' accommodations, camping equipment (tents), and meals. You must get yourself to Phoenix and supply your own personal camping gear, such as a sleeping bag.
Women's Travel Club (tel. 800/480-4448; www.womenstravelclub.com) takes women all over the world to experience a destination's culture. Upcoming trips include "North and South India", priced $4,978 (taxes and airfare included) November 5-20. Accommodations at five-star hotels and breakfast and dinner daily are included. Also, there is one room left for the "Argentina and Brazil" trip November 30-December 12, priced at $3,149 plus taxes, including airfare from New York-JFK, hotels, sightseeing and 15 meals.
In the northern part of Mexico, Hacidena de los Santos (tel. 800/728-9098; www.mexicoboutiquehotels.com/lossantos/packages.html) has a "Girls' Fiesta," a three-night, four-day deal that's priced at $765 per person based on double occupancy. It includes margaritas and tapas on arrival, round-trip airport transfers, six spa treatments (three per person), a dinner for two prepared by Chef Rene Duarte and two $25 gift certificates to an onsite boutique and full breakfast each day. Taxes and gratuities are also included; airfare is not. The price is good for travel through May 31, 2007.
If you anticipate the winter blues, or if certain ailments hit you like clockwork every January, then think about a getaway that's literally designed to make you feel better. Located on the southwest shore of St. Maarten, Sonesta Maho Beach Resort and Casino (tel. 800/223-0757; www.sonesta.com/stmaarten), the resort is offering a "Flu You" package, which includes three nights in a deluxe ocean-view guest room, an anti-flu spa remedy of your choice, tax, and gratuities for $1,097 for two people, based on double occupancy. The package is valid for travel December 1 through April 1, 2007 except for the week of December 24-31. Choose among a detoxifying body wrap, with eucalyptus oils to help open your sinuses, a decongesting hydrotherapy bath treatment, or a 55-minute respiration massage.
In Providenciales, Turks & Caicos, the Alexandra Resort and Spa (tel. 800/704-9424; https://alexandra.nex-creative.com/alexandra.asp) offers a "girlfriend getaway", which can accommodate two to 12 for a retreat for three to five nights. Experience a Caribbean cooking night, cocktail tasting and an oceanview spa treatment. Rates begin at $241 per person per night based on three people sharing a one-bedroom suite for three nights minimum. The package is good through December 15, 2006 and prices will vary depending on the number in your party and desired accommodations.
Further north, and more immediately, some properties along the Discovery Trail in Newfoundland -- nearly 75 miles of coastal towns, historic sites and natural attractions along the province's east coast -- are extending specials through November. Spend your day hiking nearby trails, and spend your evening at the antique-filled Island View Hospitality Home (tel. 866/420-3255; www.fallfordiscovery.com/fall/packages.asp?id=36) in Clarenville, which overlooks Trinity Bay. The property's Ladies Getaway Weekend starts from $65 (CAD) per room. You have full access to the house, including the kitchen, and three rooms are available. Price includes breakfast, coffee and tea or hot chocolate all day and homemade sticky buns.
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