Update: Looks like Feb 20-27 is also available. Reading week isn't it?
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Not a bad Valentine's gift!
source: http://advhimalayan.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/Costa-Rica1.jpg
Here's how to find it...
Families are often lured by cheap airfare and the deeply discounted hotel deals that are offered for travel during hurricane or rainy season. While the deals are great, the timing can be a bit of a gamble if you’re looking to have a smooth, rain-free vacation. If you do decide to “take the plunge”, here are some ideas to keep you from hiding in your room if it rains on your vacation:
 When you think of resorts you often associate them with hoards of tourists, plane-loads of people all heading to the same place to fight over the same pool loungers and line-up in the same buffet lines. But there's a different kind of resort out there, away from the hoards, and often you'll share the place with only a few other guests. These wilderness resorts are as close to the middle of nowhere as you'll get, but offer up luxurious accommodations and endless outdoor activities. You don't have to cheap on comfort to get a wilderness experience. But you won't cheap on much, and that's the catch. Sure, camping is always an option, but check out some of the finest wilderness resorts in the world. Suspend your budgets for this one, and think inspirational, rather than practical. Pretty easy, when you consider the amazing views on offer.
I've seen some very cheap flights to Europe on Air Transat in my day, and you've probably seen that I choose to post when they really hit rock bottom, usually around $550-$650 roundtrip after taxes. But this one takes the cake.
Here's how to find it...
1. http://www.airtransat.ca/
2. Search for Calgary to Manchester, United Kingdom from February 3 to 18.
3. Hit 'Find Flights'
source: http://ukbestguide.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/Manchester.jpg
screenshot of verified price:
Also note that Feb 1-15 from Calgary to London (LGW) is down to $448 roundtrip after taxes.
Update: It looks like Air Transat has added more dates, and cheap ones to London as well, for $399 roundtrip after taxes...
Try one of the following combos
London: Feb 1-18, Feb 4-15, Feb 4-18, Feb 8-15, Feb 8-18
Manchester: Feb 10-18
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UPDATE: This is also available from Toronto to London, Manchester, and Glasgow.
Enter one of the following destinations and date combinations:
Toronto to London (LGW): Feb 5 to13
Toronto to Manchester (MAN): Feb 12 to 20
Toronto to Glasgow (GLA): Feb 8 to 16
Hit Like if you like this deal! Click Share to show your friends on Facebook.
Chris Myden runs a travel deal community for Canadians,  Ydeals.com as well as a network of blogs, one dedicated to each city.
You can follow his deal finds for Calgary at  YYCdeals.com
 Let's face it: vacations cost money. With rising fuel costs, exorbitant taxes, a lagging economy and intense competition for hotels to be bigger and better, it seems like it's really hard to get a great deal. But there are ways you can save.
Here are my top 10 tips to cut back on your vacation budget.
1. Sign up for newsletters and social media channels. I have a separate email account I use for travel newsletters and contests, which update me on upcoming events and promotions. Many companies from travel agencies to hotels will have exclusive facebook and twitter promotions, which are always a good eye to keep on a few months in advance if you are planning a getaway.
source: http://www.las-vegas-all-inclusive-vacation-packages.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/las-vegas.jpg
Sunwing just drastically dropped the price of some last minute flights to Vegas. They're about 42% cheaper than the usual bottom price for a flight to Vegas. Here's how to find them...
 Just you and the road, man. If you've dreamt of hitting the road but can't find a co-pilot, it doesn't mean you're relegated to planes, trains and buses for life. Road trips with a road trip buddy are fun, sure, but solo road trips pack a little something special for those who like adventure, and those who can appreciate the beauty of solitude. Were the road to Walden Pond paved and automobiles readily available at the time, surely Henry David Thoreau would have driven it at least once.
I did my own solo road trip down the east coast of Australia a few years ago, from Cairns to Brisbane in a 7-metre camper van. Not only was it a way-too-spacious vehicle, it had a standard transmission, something I wasn't too familiar with, AND the gearshift was on the left. It took some getting used to, but damned if I wasn't going to make it work and once I hit the highway, it was smooth sailing. I think everyone should do a solo road trip at least once in their life. But to ensure you get the best possible experience, here are a few tips to follow.
 Sun season is here (or rather, in the Caribbean) and sometimes you want to get away but not from the less than stellar weather -- from the kids. There are plenty of Adults-only resorts in the Caribbean which cater to those who are 18 plus. No splashing at the pool or loud screams during a gourmet meal. I’ve selected a few All Inclusive options for you in popular sun destinations.
MAYAN RIVIERA, MEXICO
 The El Dorado Royale is the original resort of the five resort El Dorado empire envisioned by its parent company, Karisma (including Hidden Beach Resort and its Au Naturel Club). As an adult-only resort, the El Dorado Royale is ideal for a romantic vacation that is sophisticated and relaxed. What makes this a stand-out property is the Gourmet-Inclusive experience. This property boasts seven gourmet restaurants including one with a fondue selection and Fuentes which enables you to experience culinary theatre. If you’re worried about your waistline, there are three gourmet corners that enable you to snack small throughout the day. The Healthy Corner serves fruit, whole-wheat sandwiches and smoothies made fresh to order. Or you could swim it off in one of their 13 pools.
PUNTA CANA, DOMINICAN REPUBLIC
 The Gran Bahia Principe Ambar is a luxury adults-only resort for guests 18 and over. The resort is large and features 528 elegantly appointed, super and spacious junior suites in two and three story suites. The Pueblo Principe is one feature, which is a 24-hour commerical and entertainment village that offers snacks, drinks and domestic beer. Room service is 24 hours -- great because it’s an option and not a choice because of the kids!
OCHOS RIOS, JAMAICA
 There are over eight options of hotels to choose from in the Sandals chain in Jamaica, but my resources in the industry say that the Sandals Grande Riviera Beach & Villa Golf Resort is their favourite (with the Sandals White House a close second). Sandals was one of the first chains to bring luxury and adults-only as accommodation options. This one is for the lovers, open to couples who are 18 years and older making this an ideal honeymoon or anniversary escape. Aside from the luscious bedding, you can have your pick of unlimited premimum brand drinks (including their signature Berringer house wines).
PROVIDENCIALES, TURKS AND CAICOS
 The Club Med Turquoise is the resort legends are made of and remain the exclusive all-inclusive adults only resort in Provo. Though the exterior has aged and could use a new paint job and some plant-watering, the vibe is fun and lively. Many visitors are single and are in their late twenties and up. Room furnishings are modest and colourful and it remains great value if you are looking for a luxurious destination filled with lots of watersports and group activities including the many theme parties that happen at night. The highlight is a chance to flex your acrobatic skills on the trapeze. Or there’s the option to relax by the chic pool or lay on the gorgeous white sands of Grace Bay Beach while looking out at the ocean.
SAINT JAMES, BARBADOS
 The Almond Beach Club and Resort is perfect for adults looking for a quiet serenity. An ironic note that there is not much of a beach at this beach club but it is very close to the idyllic beach of Sandy Lane in Holetown (and the luxury Sandy Lane hotel that caters to its celebrity guests) and accessible to the public. Activities range from cooking classes to learning how to surf; there is afternoon tea from 3:00 to 4:30 p.m. daily and at night, you can sing along in the piano bar. These luxuries are perfect for those looking for a sophisticated, low key holiday but don’t want to pay the premium price of other resorts in the British Virgin Islands.
Constantly on a quest to explore the world, Natalie Taylor seeks the good life without spending a fortune. You can catch her regular posts right here on Sympatico.ca Travel’s luxury for less blog. You can also find her on Twitter@nearafar.
There's been a pretty drastic last minute drop on a flight to Manzanillo, Mexico.
source: http://media-cdn.tripadvisor.com/media/photo-s/00/11/d6/6b/one-of-the-manzanillo.jpg
 It’s a horror story heard too often by friends, family and acquaintances: exorbitant
long distance charges and roaming fees from phone companies after using your cell phone or smart phone outside of Canada, whether it be a weekend in the U.S., a couple of weeks in Europe or a sunny getaway in the Caribbean.
So, here’s what you need to know to avoid issues with phone bills when using your cell phone abroad.
Using Your Cell Phone When Travelling or Abroad
Get a Travel Plan – Many providers are now offering travel packs or bundles that users can add-on to their regular plan and monthly bill. For example, if you are travelling in the United States and you use Bell as your mobile service provider, you can get Travel USA call bundle that includes up to 15 minutes for $15 or up to 50 minutes for $30, while data users can get 10MB for $30 or 25MB for $50.
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December 2011
