stretching the dollar and making it count

May 6th, 2008

With the economy dominating the headlines and the dollar taking some hits, one might not considering traveling to far off places. However, if one looks hard enough, there are still deals to be had and areas in which the dollar has buying power, and the truth lies in the numbers. For example, while a four-night, all-inclusive retreat at The Golden Door in California costs $4,725, in Bali at the COMO Shambhala Estate at Begawan Giri a five-night, all-inclusive wellness program will cost around $2,100. For city deals, head to Saigon, where a room at the mod Park Hyatt Saigon starts at $265 per night, compared to a room at New York’s Bowery Hotel which starts at $495 per night. So look no further for ten reasons to think again and jet set – or cruise – to some super savings in all regions of the world this summer.

EUROPE

Crystal Cruises

Where: From Barcelona to Venice aboard Crystal Serenity, departing June 25, 2008 for 12 days

Why: The best way to see Europe this summer without falling prey to its mighty Euro, is on a cruise. Let Crystal Cruises take you there while providing unparalleled deals (in dollars!)

Stretch it out: Fare includes all non-alcoholic beverages, snacks, entertainment, classes, lectures, and (drum roll, please) ALL meals onboard – i.e. Nobu for free! And with not only everything onboard priced in dollars at set rates, Crystal does the same for its shore excursions so guests literally can explore Europe on the dollar!

Rates: Starting at $4,675 per person for double occupancy – nearly 55% off the brochure price and around $390 per day with all expenses included!

www.crystalcruises.com/cruise_itinerary.aspx?CID=8315

THE CARIBBEAN

Rosewood Mayakobá

Where: Riveria Maya, Mexico

Why: Rates are almost as hot as this Mexican locale. Just opened in December, the hotel is quickly establishing itself as the place to stay in the place to be.

Stretch it out: Summer rates are already a steal, and the hotel is taking another 20% off select rooms until October 31, 2008 if you book a minimum of three nights.

Rates: Rooms start at $400.

www.rosewoodmayakoba.com

Parrot Cay

Where: Turks & Caicos, British West Indies

Why: Gleaming sun, white sand, and turquoise blue water – Parrot Cay is the ultimate in exclusivity in the T&C. Just ask Donna Karan, Bruce Willis, or Christie Brinkley.

Stretch it out: Book seven nights pay for six. Can it get any easier than that?! Valid June 1-October 31.

Rates: Double occupancy rooms in the off-season start as low as $525 per night; during the summer, the hotel offers a single occupancy room for as little as $315 per night!

www.parrotcay.como.bz

INDIAN OCEAN

Cocoa Island, Maldives

Where: South Malé Atoll

Why: Talk about serene – the strongest winds here are a gentle breeze, and the tallest points are the swaying palm trees.

Stretch it out: Cocoa Island is offering an amazing Summer 2008 Special valid from May 15 through October 15, 2008: seven nights for the price of five or 14 nights for the price of 10.

Rates: Dhoni suites start at $590 per night.

www.cocoaisland.como.bz

Anantara Maldives

Where: South Malé Atoll

Why: The bathrooms in the overwater suites feature infinity bathtubs set on glass floor panels providing a glimpse into the sea below.

Stretch it out: It pays to plan ahead! Through September 30, 2008, Anantara Maldives is offering a hefty Early Bird Special book 45 days ahead, pay upfront, and receive $200 off per night.

Rates: Depending on accommodation, summer rates range from $400 to $1680.

www.maldives.anantara.com

SOUTH ASIA

COMO Shambhala Estate at Begawan Giri

Where: Bali, Indonesia

Why: The ultimate in reclusive retreats, The Estate is the flagship for COMO Shambhala, the award-winning holistic health company owned by Christina Ong.

Stretch it out: Retreat to Bali for an exotic and luxurious getaway that will cost you less than a certain resort in Arizona and Massachussetts. Health-conscious travelers can opt for one of the Estate’s all-inclusive Wellness Programs for three, five, or seven nights.

Rates: Individual rooms start at $275 per night, but go on and book one of the five-night programs that start at $1,688.

www.cse.como.bz

The Metropolitan Bangkok

Where: Bustling and busy Bangkok, Thailand

Why: The epitome of modernism, guests at the Met Bangkok can enjoy the chic Mies van der Rohe-style façade and staff dressed in black and white Comme des Garçons uniforms.

Stretch it out: While its sister in London continues to see the pound rise, in Bangkok guests can experience the luxury and refinement of the hotel at nearly half the price!

Rates: Experience super savings with rooms starting at $260 per night.

www.metropolitan.como.bz/bangkok

Park Hyatt Saigon

Where: Historic Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam

Why: Ideally situated in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City on Lam Son Square, Park Hyatt Saigon occupies a prime location overlooking the elegant Opera House and within reach of the international airport, convention center and business district.

Stretch it out: Perhaps one can stretch the dollar furthest in Vietnam.Beer will cost tourists about $1 while a bowl of Pho, a traditional dish, will run all of $.50.

Rates: Park rooms start at $265 per night.

saigon.park.hyatt.com

Park Hyatt Goa

Where: The most idyllic area of south Goa, India

Why: Evoking the unique atmosphere of a Goan village, the resort combines all the elements of the finest five-star accommodation with those of a tranquil beach resort and spa.

Stretch it out: With the buying power of the dollar still staying strong ($1 = around 40 rupees), India has historically provided unbeatable values for American visitors.

Rates: Rooms start around $320 per night.

goa.park.hyatt.com

SOUTH AMERICA

Park Hyatt Mendoza and Palacio Duhau-Park Hyatt Buenos Aires

Where: Mendoza, Argentina’s famous wine country, and the cultural hotspot of Buenos Aires

Why: Imbibe in delicious vino while touring gorgeous vineyards brimming with “uvas.” Or hit up the capital and tango the night away!

Stretch it out: While the dollar seems to keep going south, so should you! South of the equator visitors to Argentina can purchase the finest leather or eat delicious steaks without breaking the bank.

Rates: Rooms start at $265 and $410 at these hotels, respectively.

buenosaires.parkhyatt.com

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