A NOTE TO OUR READERS:
"Last-minute Florida Deals" is from the August 2007 issue of Southern Living.
Because prices, dates, and other specifics are subject to change, please check all
information to make sure it's still current before making your travel plans.
FOR MORE INFO:
Editors' City Guide: Naples, FL
Editors' City Guide: Orlando, FL
Somehow summertime has almost slipped by and you never got
that vacation you promised yourself. Well, it's not too late. Even
better, you can score a rate at these top-notch properties that will
make waiting until the last minute the smartest thing you ever did.
Grand Bohemian Hotel Orlando
There's nary a cartoon character in sight at this chic and savvy hotel,
decked out in jewel tones and iridescent fabrics. More than 200 pieces
of art decorate the space, including original works by Dale Chihuly and
Egon Schiele. This place is too, too cool.
The bed-and-breakfast rate this month features a room for $149 (down
from $229), available Friday, Saturday, and Sunday nights only. Call
1-866-663-0024, and ask for the SL07HBB rate. It's not available on the
Web site; you have to call to get the deal. 325 South Orange Avenue,
Orlando, FL 32801; www.grandbohemianhotel.com.
Casa Monica Hotel of St. Augustine
A masterpiece. That's the best way to describe this castle-like hotel
found in America's oldest city. Easily the nicest lodging in town,
you'll see Moorish columns and arches, chandeliers, Italian tiles, and
gilded iron tables throughout the lobby. The rooms, with two- and
four-poster wrought iron beds, are as lovely as the building itself.
Score a rate starting at $179 (down from $229) Sunday-Thursday when
available. 95 Cordova, St. Augustine, FL 32084; www.casamonica.com or
1-800-648-1888.
Bellasera Hotel in Naples
Forget a trip to Italy when you can visit the
Florida version of luxury Italian style. Expect marble vanities, fancy
chenille robes, Aveda bath products, and a refrigerator in each of the
suites. As you wander, you'll discover a romantic courtyard and a heated
outdoor pool.
Through September 30, the Bellasera Hotel offers up to 40% off the
regular rates, based on availability. Stay in a two-bedroom suite for
$144 (down from $240). 221 Ninth Street South, Naples, FL 34102;
www.bellaseranaples.com or 1-888-627-1595.
Just for Our Readers
As if these three deals weren't spectacular enough,
here's another one. The luxurious Shores Resort & Spa in Daytona Beach
is offering the Southern Living Package where you buy three nights and
get the fourth night free. As always, availability is limited, and
certain blackout dates apply, including Biketoberfest. Rates start at
$159 (promotional code SLPKG). 2637 South Atlantic Avenue, Daytona Beach
Shores, FL 32118; www.shoresresort.com or 1-866-934-7467.
