One of the biggest travel trends? People are looking to go big on their vacations again, booking those over-the-top trips that they’ve been dreaming about.
But can you go over-the-top without going over-budget? Well, you’ve made the right first step by coming to RedWeek, where you can book outstanding resort accommodations for much lower than virtually anywhere else. And you can still enjoy luxurious destinations while not necessarily emptying your wallet. Here’s a little inspiration for your revenge travel in the upcoming months.
Island Indulgence: Grand Cayman
The Caribbean is calling — and Grand Cayman is a luxurious option if sun and sand are what you’re in the mood for. Located in the Caribbean Sea, it’s the largest of the Cayman Islands, which means you’ll have plenty of places to explore throughout 76 square miles, from the famed Seven Mile Beach to the lush Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park.
For an indulgent — but not too indulgent — retail spree, make a beeline to George Town, Grand Cayman’s capital city. Even though the brands you find here are upscale (Versace, Tiffany, Gucci and more), you can take advantage of duty-free shopping; prices can be as much as 30 percent lower on Grand Cayman.
Where To Stay: Get grand on Grand Cayman. Located on a beautiful white sand beach, each of Morrit’s Grand Resort’s suites boast panoramic ocean views from private balconies.
Welcome To Magic City: Miami
There’s no place quite like Miami if you’re in the mood for a trip that blends high-end experiences with classic vacation experiences. You can spend the morning soaking up the sun on the world-famous South Beach, take the afternoon to explore the amazing architecture in the Art Deco Historic District, and then dance the night away at one of the city’s glamorous clubs.
The fine dining scene in “Magic City” is phenomenal as well, with Cuban and Caribbean influences brushing up against innovative haute cuisine wizardry. But if you’re looking for straightforward (and more budget-friendly) street food, no-frills (and delicious) spots like El Taco Loco in Little Havana and Half Moon Empanadas in the MiMo neighborhood will do the trick.
Check out RedWeek’s Miami Travel Guide.
Where To Stay: Set in the heart of South Beach, Marriott Vacation Club Pulse, South Beach puts guests within walking distance of the destination’s very best shopping, dining and nightlife.
Going Big In The Big Apple: New York City
New York City is one of the world’s great metropolises, with iconic landmarks, unrivaled cultural offerings and some of the best — and most diverse — food you’ll taste anywhere. If you’ve got the energy to keep up, you can do virtually anything here: see a Broadway show, climb to the top of the Empire State Building, shop for the trendiest fashions on Fifth Avenue, and dine at such buzzy restaurants as Kochi (recently awarded a coveted Michelin star) and Gage & Tollner, a Brooklyn favorite for more than a century that’s been recently reborn.
But believe it or not, some of the best things to do in NYC are free. Stroll the sprawling oasis of Central Park or take an urban hike on the High Line, an abandoned elevated train track that’s been transformed into a 1.45-mile-long park. Pay a visit to the Morgan Library & Museum, where admission is free, and view an incredible collection of one-of-a-kind artworks and manuscripts.
Where To Stay: Located in the heart of Midtown, Wyndham Midtown 45 gives you easy access to all that NYC has to offer, within walking distance of Grand Central Station, Times Square and Park and Fifth Avenues.
A Coastal California Escape: Carmel
A hidden gem on California’s Monterey peninsula, Carmel (also known as Carmel-by-the-Sea) is a storybook vacation destination with sweeping ocean views, cobblestone streets and a decidedly luxurious flavor. Art is a passion here; in Carmel’s quaint downtown, you’ll find close to 100 galleries in one square mile, alongside impeccably curated boutiques selling antiques, apparel and jewelry. Wine is equally celebrated, with a wealth of tasting rooms, wine bars and bottle shops offering sips of California’s finest vintages.
Carmel’s natural side is just as alluring — and it offers a good way to save a little cash on your otherwise luxurious trip. Spend some time on the picturesque Carmel Beach, one of California’s most beloved stretches of sand. (Bonus: it’s dog-friendly!). Take a leisurely hike along the 3.5-mile Scenic Bluff Path, which winds its way along the coastline, high above the Pacific. Or, take a day trip to Big Sur to wander amidst towering redwoods and rugged rock formations.
Where To Stay: Dating back to 1916, the Hyatt Residence Club Carmel, Highlands Inn offers relaxing and elegant accommodations, complemented by stunning views and the award-winning Pacific’s Edge restaurant.
Start planning your travel with RedWeek now.
