Two Great Glam Summer Getaways!
With an ongoing recession, destinations and hotels are not shy about holding on to their share of the tourism market, especially as the official start of summer approaches. So to get you started and reduce some of your planning stress, here are two Glam getaways to consider during the dog days of summer. Hey, it’s time you reward yourself for getting through a tough, cold, dark winter. Pamper yourself this summer!
Sarasota, FL
Sarasota and its surrounding “Key” islands are actually quite charming. Sarasota is made up of the Siesta, Cassy, Lido, Longboat, Venice Beach and Manasota Keys. You can tour all of these or just select one and relax. But they’re quite a few things going on in the city this summer that will pique your interest: Venice Beach Key is holding a dramatic “Festival in Paradise” at the International Community Theatre where you’ll find drama, comedy and opera offerings, June 22-27. You can also savor Sarasota Restaurant Week June 1-14th.
Chose to attend any of Sarasota’s special events, loll away your time on the beach or tour the city’s quaint and historic downtown and gallery walk.
Where to Stay:
Hyatt Regency Hotel
Sarasota’s Hyatt Regency has spacious guest rooms, complimentary parking and courtesy transportation within a 3 mile radius of the hotel. Call 941-554-5800.
Palm Bay Club
Located on Sarasota’s Siesta Key, the Palm Bay Club is a condominium property offering one, two and three bedroom suites with full kitchens. Ready for your own private beach, heated pools, tennis, fitness center, wireless internet and more? Palm Bay Club is a home away from home. Call 800-725-6229/941--349-1911 or email info@palmbayclub.com.
Jamaica
Besides being a quick and familiar getaway, there’s always a bevy of activity and events on the island of Jamaica and this summer doesn’t disappoint. For instance, the 20th annual Ocho Rios International Jazz Festival runs from June 12-20th.
Catch popular Jazz artists and partake in wine tastings and fashion events. The festival also serves as a fundraiser for the Consie Walton Cancer Center. Satellite events will also be held in Negril and Kingston.
Where to Stay:
This boutique hotel boasts just 47 rooms but consistently ranks as one of the top resort hotel and vacation destinations in the Caribbean. Situated on a premier private beach, rooms here are spacious, immaculate and tastefully decorated. And if you’re looking for total privacy, check out the Jamaica Inn’s cottages set on a bluff with awesome views of the ocean. Call (888) 5 STAR11
This 5 Diamond property is located on 5000(!) acres and has everything you need for stay-put oasis: A spa, golf course, beach, water sports and gourmet dining. Your wish is their command.
