Budget Escapes - Southern Living

Stay Like a Rockefeller on a Clampett Budget

There's an upside to the current economy - book a trip right now and score a deal. Hotels are offering deeply discounted rates and throwing in extra amenities to woo travelers - free nights, resort credits, and complimentary upgrades.

If you plan your own trip, target the property and check the website daily for seasonal specials. Or simply call the hotel and ask, “What is your best rate?” Alternatively, planning with a travel agent or consultant may uncover a better deal since agents stay in regular contact with hotels.

Note:  The following prices were quoted by travel consultants at Brownell Travel (www.brownelltravel.com; 1-800-999-3960) in Birmingham, Alabama. Some specials may be agent-specific, and therefore, prices, dates, and other specifics are subject to change.

Four Seasons Resort and Club Dallas at Las Colinas, Dallas, TX

If you've always considered the Four Seasons out of your price range, now is a good time to reconsider. This luxury hotel, packed with special amenities, also features three restaurants, a café, business center, tennis courts, and indoor pools. Surrounded by 400 rolling acres of Texas hills, minutes from downtown Dallas.

Budget Value:
A room upgrade upon arrival (subject to availability), buffet breakfast daily for up to two in-room guests, and $50.00 resort credit. Book villa accommodations by April 30 and receive two complimentary rounds of golf on Four Seasons award-winning TPC course.

Hilton Wilmington/Christiana, Delaware’s Brandywine Valley

Enjoy this beautiful estate in the countryside of the Brandywine Valley for under $100 a night. The ambiance, decor, and exceptional service are all designed to transport you back to a time when prestigious Delaware socialites welcomed guests into their homes and entertained them in royal style. Each evening, the resident estate swans march to the Royal Swan Feeding.

Budget Value:
A “last-minute escape package” starting from $89 per night. Hilton Wilmington includes a number of complimentary activities such as martini-making lessons, wine-pairing classes, and swan feedings with the on-property Swan Master.

Photography Scott Wiseman

Sanibel Harbour Resort & Spa, Sanibel Island, FL

Situated on 80 acres in San Carlos Bay, this Florida resort is a haven for leisure travelers and now budget travelers too! With choices of indoor and outdoor swimming pools as well as children's programs, babysitting, 13 tennis courts, and full spa activities at this resort in Fort Myers, you shouldn't have a hard time finding something to do. Get a spectacular view from your room's private balcony.

Budget Value:
Save up to 35% on a deluxe Waterview Room. Rates starting at $194 per night.

picture of united states capitol building at sunrise

The Ritz-Carlton Tysons Corner, Washington, D.C.

Get an indulgent stay for a bare-bones price. In Northern Virginia's business and shopping district, the location is ideal for a day of shopping at the adjoining Tysons Galleria or simply luxuriating at The Ritz-Carlton's Day Spa. Elegant accommodations and impeccable personal service are defining hallmarks of the Ritz-Carlton.

Budget Value:
Rates are currently at an unprecedented low, but this five-star hotel is also offering (in addition to its many amenities) a $50.00 gift certificate to the neighboring Saks Fifth Avenue with all suite bookings.

The Brown Hotel, Louisville, Kentucky

This elegant, 16-story hotel is a Louisville treasure. A combination of Southern and modern styles, The Brown boasts an elegant lobby and several restaurants and bars. Don't miss sipping on a mint julep in the lobby bar downstairs.

Budget Value:
An exclusive Southern Living package - enjoy a night at The Brown Hotel for only $219. Package includes a Club Deluxe room, $75 dinner credit in award-winning English Grill and valet parking. Club floors offer exclusivity and privacy, as well as complimentary hors d’oeuvres, beer and wine from 5 to 9 p.m., and Continental breakfast. Offer is based upon available weekends through August 2009.

budget escapes charleston south carolina

Charleston Place, Charleston, SC

One of the most popular Charleston historic district hotels, Charleston Place offers a great location, with a superb restaurant off the lobby (Charleston Grill). The shops on King Street and Old City Market are just outside the doors.

Budget Value:
While visiting get a $50 hotel credit (one per room) applied toward the hotel’s Mobile Four-Star rated Charleston Grill, Palmetto Café or the Spa. Children 12 and under eat free with a paying adult. Rates from $260.00 per room, per night. Offer valid through September 30, 2010.

River Inn of Harbor Town, Memphis, TN

Overlooking the Mississippi River in Memphis, the boutique, 28-room River Inn has a cozy, secluded feel, yet is only 15 minutes from Beale Street. Harbor Town is self-contained with several dining options, including one of our favorites, Miss Cordelia's deli. A beautiful nature trail meanders through the community, and Greenbelt Park runs along the banks of the Mississippi River offering walking, hiking, and running opportunities.

Budget Value:
30% reduced room rates plus complimentary full gourmet breakfast each morning of your stay.

Ballantyne Resort, Charlotte, NC

The dramatic seven-story structure overlooks the well-manicured 18th fairway of the Golf Club at Ballantyne and is surrounded by some of the city's most desirable retail and residential developments. Guest rooms are immaculately appointed, and on-site amenities include a full-service spa, tennis complex, golf course, fitness center, jogging/walking path, and indoor grotto pool.

Budget Value:
Stay 1 night and receive 50% off the next. Rates start from $209 per night.

Capital Hotel, Little Rock, AR

As the "Grand Dame" of downtown Little Rock for more than a century, the Capital Hotel is conveniently located to travelers interested in the Clinton Library, The Arts Center, The Museum of Discovery, the Rivermarket, myriad historic buildings and the Riverfront. Take advantage of current deals and experience old-world elegance at recession prices.

Budget Value:
Book one night's stay and receive two tickets to the Clinton Library and Museum or Capital Bar & Grill specialty platter and two cocktails. Includes daily Continental breakfast for two in restaurant or via room service. (Book through Brownell Travel for a complimentary room upgrade at time of booking, subject to availability.)

The Mansion on Peachtree, A Rosewood Hotel & Residence, Atlanta, GA

The Mansion on Peachtree, Atlanta, GA

Towering 42-stories high in the picturesque Atlanta skyline, in the city’s most affluent neighborhood of Buckhead, the Mansion on Peachtree has style oozing from its marble floors and art-covered walls. Each of the 127 rooms feels like a private residence - right down to the doorbell, digital “privacy” and “make up room” indicators, and 24-hour butler service.

Budget Value:
Splurge on a night's stay and get a "Girls Getaway" package that includes spa lunch for 2, 30-minute massage or 30-minute facial, plus a $50 credit to CRAFT - the property’s superb restaurant - and a complimentary Sapphire Martini in the bar.

This web-exclusive article is from the May 2009 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.