Early Summer Getaways
1. Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
Hilton Head Island in South Carolina is always one of the most popular summer beach destinations- in fact, Trip Advisor just released their 2015 Travelers’ Choice Awards, and Hilton Head Island was named in the top 5 islands in America. One resort combines all of the fun and coastal amenities with healthy living for travelers seeking a healthy getaway before summer. At Hilton Head Health, travelers can experience the kayaking, yoga, horseback riding, zip-lining and other beach favorites while learning to prepare delicious healthy meals, learning mindful eating habits and attending group fitness classes featuring some of the hottest workout trends. The weight loss and wellness resort just opened a new spa facility earlier this year, offering more than 50 services- facials, massages, signature treatments and more. This is a healthy, adults-only all-inclusive getaway (meals, accommodations and fitness). Rates start at $465/night. Roundtrip airfare starts at $545/person.
2. Pigeon Forge, Tennessee
A great way to celebrate the upcoming summer months is a getaway to the Smoky Mountains. Families will love fun-filled days of exploration, excitement and relaxation with all that Pigeon Forge has to offer. Stay at Riverstone Resort & Spa, the only resort in the area to offer the largest river frontage in all the Smoky Mountains. Enjoy the resorts 8 acres of manicured grounds, outdoor activities within the Great Smoky Mountain National Park, premier gold, white water river rafting, zip-lining, hiking and a large assortment of dining option before retiring back to your condominium with choice from 1-4 rooms. New this summer is the RiverStone “Kids’ Camp-In” package, which lets families enjoy the fun of camping from the comfort of their own luxury living room within their condo. Starting at $169/night, this fun-for-all-ages package includes a two-person tent with kid’s sleeping bags, “camp fire”, cooking stove and other kids’ camping accessories. The drive from Chicago to Pigeon Forge is 7 hours. Roundtrip airfare from Chicago starts at $425/person.
3. Montego Bay, Jamaica
Enjoy an early summer getaway with an adults only (18+) vacation to the beautiful Montego Bay, Jamaica. Surrounded by the crystal-clear waters, the Bay is one of the most romantic destinations in the Caribbean. Discover a variety of amazing beaches, a bustling town and many sites including the Rose Hall Great House. The Hip Strip is the place to visit, featuring a mile of restaurants, entertainment, bars, shopping and fun. Doctor's Cave Beach Club is open seven days a week and boasts translucent water and a world-famous white sand beach. Float on a bamboo raft down the Great River and take in the amazing tropical scenery. The coastal town of Falmouth is an architectural buff's dream, with an extensive collection of Georgian-style buildings. Stay at the Secrets St. James Montego Bay for a relaxing getaway and all the privileges of Unlimited Luxury including access to gourmet restaurants, international cuisine, and over ten bars and lounges. Relax on the terrace with a cocktail, or be pampered in the world-class spa with a couples massage. Book this package from Apple Vacations and enjoy Unlimited Luxury, which includes airfare, accommodations, food and drink, and entertainment. $1,585/person for Thursday departures on 7/2 and 7/16-8/6.
4. Lucca, Italy
Looking for a couples’ retreat with family or friends? What better way to enjoy summer than by traveling to a romantic Tuscan village? Lucca, Italy is known for its surrounding Renaissance walls, cobbled streets and promenades filled with local charm. On the hills south of Lucca in a beautiful valley with a view of the local village and the town lies one of the most wonderful properties in the Lucca area. Tenuta Al Poeta is a magnificent farmhouse that has been completely renovated while still maintaining the Tuscan tradition. This Italian villa can accommodate up to 8 people and is perfect for those looking for a private and relaxing vacation. While being very private it is only a few minutes away from the local village of Vorno and the town of Lucca. This package from Apple Vacations is 282.20 per couple per night for 5 nights (based on 4 couples staying together). Enjoy an exclusive complimentary wine tasting just for WGN viewers. Roundtrip airfare from Chicago to Pisa starts at $1,447/person.
5. Mediterranean
In my opinion, one of the best ways to see the Mediterranean is aboard a Celebrity Cruise. Hop aboard the Celebrity Equinox in Rome and spend 7 nights on this luxurious traveling hotel, visiting ports including Florence, Nice, Ajaccio and Palma de Mallorca before ending in Barcelona. Or, start in Barcelona and do the reverse, touching a few different ports such as Cannes, Genoa and Naples, before disembarking in Athens. The 7-night Mediterranean Cruise is one of Celebrity's most popular options - it's a great way to see Europe's rich culture and romantic cities without taking the time to travel by ground. And the best part is, you're visiting all of these breathtaking cities without ever having to unpack your suitcase, or lug it onto a train, or drag it on and off a tour bus. It's by far one of the most relaxing ways to see the Mediterranean. You'll have the chance to enjoy excursions like a hike to the top of Mt. Vesuvius, an active volcano near Naples, Italy, or drive a Ferrari down the Cote d'Azure near Nice, France. For those who have a little more vacation time, Celebrity also offers various Mediterranean itineraries for anywhere between 8 and 12 nights. There is still availability to get away to the Mediterranean on a Celebrity Cruise this summer - you can snag a 7-night cruise in a veranda stateroom for as low as $1500 per person. Book by May 31 and enjoy the benefits of Pick Your Perk - you'll choose between Free Classic Beverage Packages, Free Gratuities, up to $300 to spend on board, or a discounted cruise fare if you book Celebrity's Choice Air. PLUS you'll receive an extra $200 to spend on board by booking a 2015 Europe itinerary. Contact Royal Travel for available 2015 and 2016 sailings and special offers.
- For your next trip, contact Royal Travel at www.royal-travel.com or call 1-800-747-7695.
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