Dunnan's Daily Travel Tip

¤  Grand Dining Has Returned To Amtrak

On the Lake Shore Limited route that runs from New York and Boston to Chicago.

Emmet Fremaux, Amtrak VP, told us that the popular 1950s era Heritage Dining Cars have been refurbished with large picture windows and modern equipment.

Prices are surprisingly reasonable: Breakfast from $6 (including juice, coffee, tea or milk), lunch from $6 and dinner ranging from $12.50 (pasta) to $17.50 (catch of the day). Ice cream is only $2; wine $5/glass and there’s a children’s menu for 12 and younger.

Note: Sleeping car service on this route was restored between Boston & Chicago in March 2009.

Particulars: www.amtrak.com.

¤  Affinia Hotels: Shopper's Survival Package

Affinia has boutique hotels (with very spacious rooms) in Chicago, New York City and Washington (DC). And, now through March 31 they are offering a "Shopper's Survival Package" that includes a Bloomingdale's signature tote bag with chocolates, water, a $50 gift card, a 15% savings pass, a makeover at Lancôme and more.

Then, after a full day of shopping you can enjoy a massage at a 25% discount through SPAffinia.

Rates start at just $219 in New York, $149 in Washington and $199 in Chicago.

Particulars: www.affinia.com or 866-AFFINIA.

¤  New Year's Eve at West Point & The Thayer Hotel

We've found a fine, traditional way to ring in 2010 on Thursday, December 31. The historic Thayer Hotel at West Point (NY) has a special package that includes dinner and dancing by candlelight with live music, deluxe overnight accommodations, breakfast buffet and late checkout – all for $550 per couple with both taxes and service fees.

Or, if you live nearby, you can book the cocktail reception, dinner and dancing without the overnight stay for considerably less -- $325 per couple.

Particulars: Call 845-446-4731 or visit www.thethayerhotel.com.

About the Thayer Hotel: Built in 1926, the Thayer Hotel is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is the one of the only full-service hotels on the Hudson River between the George Washington Bridge and Albany (NY). Originally constructed to accommodate U.S. Military Academy personnel and their guests, the hotel is named for Colonel Sylvanus Thayer, Superintendent of the Academy from 1817 to 1833.

Over the years, it has hosted a long line of dignitaries and celebrities including General Tommy Franks, General Douglas MacArthur, President Dwight D. Eisenhower, President John F. Kennedy, U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder, Queen Noor of Jordan, former Irish President Mary Robinson, singer Luciano Pavarotti, actors George C. Scott, James Earl Jones and Gregory Peck and the Philadelphia Flyers.

¤  Royal Oak Foundation Membership: Ideal Holiday Gift!

Make things easy with this must-have for the Anglophile on your list: membership to The Royal Oak Foundation, the US affiliate of the National Trust of England, Wales, and Northern Ireland.

For only $55, a 12-month Royal Oak membership grants FREE entry to all National Trust properties: 700 miles of coastline, 620,000 acres of countryside, over 300 gardens and historic houses, including the childhood homes of John Lennon and Paul McCartney and the former country estates of Winston Churchill and Agatha Christie. For the "armchair travelers" to the U.K., members also receive newsletters on culture, history, and decorative arts, and invitations to local lectures from experts in these fields.

And it keeps on giving...

Royal Oak will also include a FREE National Trust jute bag (normally $10, be sure to mention code "holiday09"). These bags are sturdily built and biodegradable, making the plastic bag a relic. Carry one to pick up groceries at the Greenmarket while spreading the good word about England's National Trust.

Particulars: For membership, call 212-480-2889 or visit www.royal-oak.org.

¤  Thanksgiving in Rome, Florence or Venice: $799

If tacchino farcito sounds sexier than turkey with stuffing and Italy seems more fun than home-with-the-relatives, take heart.

We've come up with the solution: a 5-day/4-night Thanksgiving Package to Rome, Florence or Venice that includes air from New York, fuel surcharges, accommodations in a 4-star hotel, four buffet breakfasts, an upgrade to a superior room, a complimentary bottle of wine, hotel service and taxes -- all for only $799 per person. (Equivalent packages by other tour operators cost at least $100 more.)

What's more, the packager, TourCrafters, has arranged for a traditional Thanksgiving dinner (albeit with an Italian twist) in each city. The tacchino farcito and pumpkin specialties will be served at the Regina Baglioni in Rome (a celebrated restaurant in one of the city's best hotels), the Ristorante Olio & Convivium in Florence (known for its wine and food in an historic palazzo) or the Antico Pignolo in Venice (a popular and elegant restaurant in a former 13th-century spice shop). The price of dinner is not included in the package price, but TourCrafters will be happy to make the reservations.

Departure dates: November 23, 24 and 25.

Air fare add-ons: For departure cities other than New York they are $20 from Miami or Boston to Florence or Venice, and $70 from Chicago to all three cities. All prices are per person, double occupancy, are subject to availability and do not include airport taxes. Reservations must be paid for within 72 hours of booking.

Particulars: For additional information, visit www.tourcrafters.com. For reservations, call 800-482-5995.

¤  Amtrak takes San Diego Chargers Fans To Home Games

Amtrak's Pacific Surfliner trains and San Diego Trolley have teamed up to provide San Diego Chargers fans a special offer for an easy and hassle-free way to get to select home games.

Passengers can book round-trip reservations to Amtrak's Old Town San Diego (the Chargers' station stop) and then receive a direct stadium transfer on the San Diego Trolley.

After arriving at Old Town, fans simply show their Amtrak ticket stub to trolley operators for direct service to Qualcomm Stadium. Trolleys will be available to take fans back to the Old Town station after the game.

Particulars: Tickets for this special offer can be purchased online at www.Amtrak.com or at staffed Amtrak stations using code V721.

Sample round-trip adult fares from Oceanside to Old Town San Diego start as low as $38. Round-trip fares from Santa Ana start as low as $52, Fullerton and Anaheim start as low as $54 and from Los Angeles, $68.

¤  Discover New York by Traveling on Amtrak

Amtrak is once again teaming up with the communities it serves throughout New York to spotlight the endless opportunities for travel across the Empire State with the release of the sixth annual New York By Rail publication.

The publication has user-friendly information on each destination whether you're planning a day trip, a weekend getaway or a long vacation encompassing multiple stops across the Empire State.

It includes:

• A listing of 25 station stops presented within 12 different travel destinations;
• Detailed information on an I LOVE NEW YORK – Amtrak's 20% discount offer to all locations in New York State and Montreal, Canada;
• An Enterprise Rental Car promotion featuring an Amtrak customer discount and pickup at Amtrak New York State stations;
• Information on upcoming New York State fairs & festivals;
• Details on the upcoming state-wide Quadricentennial Celebration.

 
July 2009

 
¤  Italy: Five Nights From $389 With Air Fare

For almost 30 years, TourCrafters, the family-owned Italian tour operator, has been offering great deals. This winter season is no exception.

From October 26 to March 31, the company is offering 5-day/4-night Early Bird Specials starting at $425 to Rome, $389 to Florence and $432 to Venice.

Deadline: To get these low prices you must book your package by August 30.

What's Included: These special prices are less than $100 a day for packages that include transatlantic air fare from New York, comfortable and convenient hotel accommodations with private bath (Hotels Brasile in Rome, Meridiana in Florence and Hesperia in Venice), daily breakfast, service charges and taxes.

Upgrades: Travelers who want an upgraded hotel can choose the 4-star Hotel Michelangelo ($606) or 5-star Bernini Bristol ($953) in Rome, the 4-star Grand Hotel Baglioni ($595) in Florence, and the 4-star Carlton & Grand Canal ($503) or heavenly 5-star Luna Baglioni ($1,082) in Venice.

Add-On Air Fares: Air fare add-ons from other cities are also available: $50 from Boston, $95 from Chicago and $120 from Miami to Rome; and $19 from Boston, $72.50 from Chicago and $90 from Miami to Florence and Venice.

Particulars: Call 800-482-5995 or visit www.tourcrafters.com.

¤  Scottish Highlands: Vacation In A Luxurious Lodge

Just one hour north of Inverness is the spectacular 23,000 acre Alladale Wilderness Reserve, the largest private wilderness reserve in Europe. And it now has a special vacation package that combines adventure by day and comfort by night.

Alladale is privately owned by philanthropist Paul Lister, who is re-creating the balance of nature here, long absent due to the hunting to extinction of certain wildlife, the destruction of much flora by sheep farms and an overpopulation of red deer.

In partnership with Oxford University's Wildlife Conservation Research Unit, Alladale is monitoring the introduction of wild boar into the environment to help re-establish the once mighty Caledonian Pine Forest. Four moose (elk) from Sweden have just been added to help accelerate the return of the species; a large hydroponic garden and greenhouse supply guests with the freshest produce possible; and a dam project is in the works to assist in the spawning of salmon.

Activities: Guests may participate in numerous outdoor activities such as pony trekking, calf tagging, hiking, bushcraft, wildlife viewing and clay pigeon shooting. Special interest breaks range from culinary holidays and ayuvedic yoga retreats to art classes and whiskey tastings. Nightly entertainment often features Highland dancing where guests and staff don tartans.

About Alladale Lodge: The majestic stone Alladale Lodge, situated on a bluff between Glen Alladale and Glen Mohr, has seven Laura Ashley-designed guest rooms, each with magnificent views. There's also a spa, fitness center, sauna bath, billiards room, conference room and superb dining with a world-class chef.

Alladale Lodge is only available to families or groups.

Two Bothies have recently opened at Alladale, each in its own Glen. Ghillie's Rest sleeps two adults and two children. Eagle's Crag accommodates four persons. Each has a fully stocked refrigerator so guests may cook for themselves or the chef from the main lodge will prepare their meals and transport them to the Bothie.

Alladale was recently highlighted on two BBC programs – The Natural World ‘Moose on the Loose' and The Real Monarch of the Glent.

Rates: Rates start at $3,785 per night for the entire main lodge (accommodating 14 persons). All meals, wine with dinner, deer stalking, fly fishing, guided walks, 4x4 safaris, mountain bikes, gymnasium and sauna are included.

Rates at Ghillies Rest start at $658 per night for entire lodge and Eagles Craig starts at $1,152.43 per night. All meals and some activities included.

Particulars: Call +44-186-375-5338 or email reservations@alladale.com. The web site is www.alladale.com.

¤  Hotels: Half-Price or Free -- Nationwide

Sage Hospitality's new campaign, "Give a Day, Get a Night," is available from now until December 20th at 53 Sage hotels around the country. It even includes the group's most luxurious hotels, such as The Blackstone in Chicago, The Oxford in Denver and The Nines in Portland (OR).

Simply get a letter on the charity's letterhead proving you've done a full eight hours of service and you will receive a room at half-price and in some cases, for free. It applies to Meals on Wheels, Habitat for Humanity or any 501c3 organization.

Volunteer hours must be completed between July 1 and December 18 and reservations are required 48 hours in advance.

Walter Isenberg, Sage President, told TravelSmart, "We have always been dedicated to community issues and outreach, whether it's supporting local schools through our Best in Class program or encouraging employees to volunteer their time. We are proud to spread that message and honor volunteers all over the country. We hope the ‘Give a Day, Get a Night' promotion will not only reward our nation's many selfless volunteers, but also encourage people to volunteer time for their favorite causes."

Locations: The Denver-based company has hotels in: AZ, CA, CO, CT, FL, GA, IL, MA, MI, MN, MO, NB, NV, NJ, NC, OH, OR, PA, RI, TX, UT, WI and WA.

Particulars: www.sagehospitality.com/specials/giveadaygetanight.htm.

¤  Phoenix's Wigwam Resort: $79

In celebration of its 80th anniversary, the legendary Wigwam Golf Resort & Spa is offering special packages, ranging from the ultimate romantic desert escape for two for just $179 per couple to $99 bed & breakfast and $79 summer rates.

About The Wigwam: Just 10 minutes west of the 101 South at Camelback Road, the Wigwam is nestled in the charming residential resort community of Litchfield Park. The resort has 331 rooms, 72 suites, 400 acres of lush green grass, 8,000 rose bushes and fragrant citrus groves.

There are two expansive pools, a waterslide, and a fire pit and cabana lounge area. The Wigwam is also home to the Southwest's only 54 holes of championship golf, a signature Red Door Spa and the coveted AAA Four Diamond-rated Red's Steakhouse.

About The Packages: The packages run through September 30. Our two favorites:

• Authentic Arizona Escape Package starts at $179 and includes a three-course dinner for two at Red's Steakhouse, two rounds of golf on any of the resort's three courses and one-night stay in an Adobe Traditional guestroom.

• Bed & Breakfast Package starts at $109 and includes one-night in an Adobe Traditional Suite and breakfast for two at the Arizona Kitchen, offering a traditional southwest menu including such favorites as the Sweet Potato Waffle and Cowboy Hash.

¤  Georgia O'Keeffe Film & Santa Fe Hotel Package

The O'Keeffe Museum and the Lensic Performing Arts Center are hosting the live red carpet premiere of "Georgia O'Keeffe," a Lifetime Television original movie, starring Oscar winner Jeremy Irons and Oscar nominee Joan Allen.

The film explores the turbulent 20-year relationship between O'Keeffe and her photographer/husband, Alfred Stieglitz, telling the story of how this emotional struggle paved the way for O'Keeffe's move out West and her eventual place in New Mexico's history.

The Film's Premiere: Friday, August 28, will find both fans and stars aligned to celebrate the life and times of one of the Southwest's most iconic figures. Ms. Allen will be the guest of honor at the film's opening, followed by a reception and silent auction of props and memorabilia from the film, including such collectibles as realistic reproductions of Ms. O'Keeffe's artwork, photographs from the set and an autographed canvas-back from one of the movie set's chairs.

The Hotel Package: The Inn on the Alameda, one of Santa Fe's finest small hotels, has a great package for those attending the premiere. The O'Keeffe Live Package, available 8/28 through 8/30, includes:

• A two-night stay in one the Inn's cozy and comfortable accommodations
• General admission for two to the August 28th 7pm premiere at the historic Lensic Theater, followed by a post-screening reception at the beautiful Georgia O'Keeffe Museum
• Ten (10) keepsake O'Keeffe postcards
• The Inn's lavish "Breakfast of Enchantment" daily
• A relaxing afternoon wine and cheese reception daily
• WiFi in guestrooms and public areas
• Local phone calls and parking.

About The Inn: With classic Pueblo-style architecture, the old-world ambiance of Santa Fe flows throughout the comfortable 71 rooms and communal areas of the Inn on the Alameda. Mexican tile, handmade furniture, hand-woven rugs, local artifacts, and traditional kiva fireplaces all contribute to the hotel's warm and inviting atmosphere. Hotel amenities include two outdoor hot tubs, a small fitness facility, guest laundry and complimentary coffee service. Its central location makes it simple for guests to explore the nearby restaurants, art galleries, open-air mercados and one-of-a-kind boutiques that define the "City Different."

Particulars: Call 800-984-2122 or 505-984-2121 or visit www.innonthealameda.com/promo.html.

¤  YMCA Of The Colorado Rockies: $109/night

The YMCA of Estes Park, in the heart of the Rocky Mountains is a great place for an inexpensive family vacation. Surrounded on three sides by the Rocky Mountain National Park, the YMCA is just 65 miles northwest of Denver on 860 acres of ponderosa pines. It has 200 cabins, ranging in size from two to 16 bedrooms, and 600 lodge rooms.

Rates: Lodge rooms, which sleep up to six adults, start at just $109 per night. Price includes two adult breakfasts per day. Rates for a two-bedroom cabin start at $119.

Activities: The non-profit YMCA of the Rockies has plenty of free activities, amenities, concerts and celebrations. Hiking, miniature golf, games, and an on-site library and pool are just a few of the free options available at YMCA of the Rockies.

There's also horseback riding, archery, fly-fishing, mountain biking, a craft center and an indoor swimming pool.

The staff will also help you plan a family reunion, wedding or other group events.

Particulars: Call 800-777-9622 or visit www.ymcarockies.org.

¤  New York City's Kitano Hotel: Summer Package

This summer, The Kitano New York, the city's only Japanese-owned hotel, has a special Park on Park Package.

Available each Thursday though Sunday from now through September 7, it includes beautiful accommodations at a discounted rate, breakfast for two in the Garden Café, valet parking (one car per room) and two complimentary welcome drinks. The package starts at $299 and must be booked by July 15th.

About The Kitano:

The luxurious 149-room hotel is on Park Avenue, just a few blocks south of Grand Central Terminal. It is also a short walk from the Morgan Library/Museum and the New York Public Library.

Many of the newly-refurbished guestrooms have views of the historic Murray Hill, Grand Central Terminal, the Empire State Building and other New York landmarks. You'll find the rooms incredibly quiet, thanks to triple glazed windows.

It's Garden Café, in a historic townhouse adjacent to the hotel, features contemporary American and French-inspired cuisine.

Note: Members of the TravelSmart staff often shop in the hotel's Boutique, which features a unique collection of handmade items from European and Asian artists that you won't find anywhere else in Manhattan.

The Kitano New York's Bar Lounge hosts live jazz performances each Wednesday through Saturday evening at 8 pm and 10 pm. Summer performances include the "70th Birthday Celebration" with the Marvin Stamm Quartet featuring a special guest on July 17-18.

Particulars: Call 212-885-7000, 800-548-2666 or visit www.kitano.com.

¤  Denver's Warwick Hotel: Packages From Just $134 Per Night

The 219-room Warwick Denver Hotel has just-completed a $25 million renovation and to celebrate is offering 14 affordable new packages that appeal to a wide spectrum of interests -- from beer to baseball, museums and family amusement parks and romance and relaxation. Each includes accommodations, free valet parking and WI-Fi -- plus specific extras.

The hotel's general manager, Scott Ostrander, reminded TravelSmart that "Warwick Denver has long been a popular spot on the downtown Denver scene. After all, this was once the site of Denver's Playboy Club. But after the renovation, the hotel looks completely different. The ambiance is very much that of a warm and inviting luxury residence."

In fact, it has the most spacious rooms in the downtown Denver area, due to the fact that the building originally served as luxury condominiums. The majority of rooms have private balconies and floor to ceiling glass windows offering impressive views of Downtown Denver's Cityscape, the Front Range or the Rocky Mountains.

Our Three Favorites:

• The Mile High Sports Package starts at $174/ night. Denver is one of only three US cities that have all six major league sports teams! Includes one Fiji water, game snacks, one home team cap per person and VIP transportation to a sports venue.

• The Denver Libations Package starts at $174/night. Discover why Denver is called the Napa Valley of beer. Includes Colorado Microbrew Samples (two per guest), a variety of bar snacks, VIP transportation to and from your brewery tour Monday-Friday (or to a Brewpub of your choice), a tour of Breckenridge Brewery (Monday-Friday) and breakfast for two.

• The Pool Package starts at $134/night. Bask in the sun at Denver's only roof-top pool. Includes a bucket of beverages, $25 room service credit, a water bottle, sun screen and two beverage koozies.

¤  The Library of Congress' National Book Festival: Washington (DC)

Plan to be on Washington (DC) on September 26th for the 9th annual National Book Festival. Organized and sponsored by the Library of Congress, it will feature many best selling authors, including David Baldacci, John Grisham, John Irving, Julia Alvarez, Judy Blume, Ken Burns, Gwen Ifill, Lee Child and Jodi Picoult -- as well as celebrity chef Paula Deen.

This popular event celebrating the joys of reading and lifelong literacy will be held on the National Mall, between 7th and 14th Streets from 10 am to 5:30 pm (rain or shine).

The event, for which the Honorary Chairs are President and Mrs. Barack Obama, is free and open to the public. More than 120,000 people attended the festival last year.

"This promises to be one of our most exciting author lineups ever," Librarian of Congress James H. Billington told TravelSmart. "This year's National Book Festival truly offers something for everyone, with books by popular and award-winning authors in many genres and for all age groups."

The poster for the National Book Festival has been illustrated by noted author/artist Charles Santore of Philadelphia. Santore has written and illustrated "The Silk Princess," "The Three Hungry Pigs" and "The Wolf Who Came to Dinner," and has illustrated "The Wizard of Oz" and "Aesop's Fables." Santore's work is included in the permanent collections of the Brandywine Museum and the Museum of Modern Art.

Festival-goers can meet and hear firsthand from their favorite authors, purchase books by festival authors, get books signed by authors, have photos taken with PBS storybook characters and participate in a variety of fun learning activities.

If you can't be there in person, C-SPAN will broadcast the event live, over television and radio.

Borders will be the official bookseller of the National Book Festival.

The 2009 National Book Festival is made possible through the support of Target, The Washington Post; AT&T, Institute of Museum and Library Services, The James Madison Council, the National Endowment for the Arts.

Contributors: Borders, the Library of Congress Federal Credit Union, PBS, Penguin Group (USA), ReadAloud.org, Scholastic Inc.; Friends The Hay-Adams Hotel and the National Endowment for the Humanities.

Particulars: www.loc.gov/bookfest

¤  Tour New York City At Night!

Gray Line New York Sightseeing has gone creative with its launch of two new tours. And, you'll love the prices! President Mark Marmurstein described the brand new offerings to TravelSmart.

1. The Freestyle New York Double Decker Bus Tour consists of 48 hours of hop-on, hop-off fun that will take you to New York City's top attractions, museums and shops, with stops to over 50 locations throughout the city.

   Included are admissions to any THREE of the following NYC attractions:

   • Ferry to Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island
   • Empire State Building Observatory
   • Top of The Rock Observation Deck
   • The Museum of Modern Art (MOMA)
   • The American Museum of Natural History
   • Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum
   • South Street Seaport Museum
   • Smithsonian Museum of the American Indian
   • Tribute World Trade Center Visitor Center
   • New York Skyride

   This tour operates daily and can save visitors up to $332. Tickets are $96 for adults and $66 for children aged 3-11. Most double decker buses depart frequently from Times Square.

   $TIP: Tickets are $91 for adults and $61 for children when you purchase your tickets via Gray Line New York's website at www.NewYorkSightseeing.com.

2. On the spectacular Statue by Night Tour you'll see New York City when it sparkles. This boat and bus package includes a tour of the city on land plus 30 minutes on the water for unparalleled views of the Manhattan Skyline, Brooklyn Bridge and the Statue of Liberty.

   On this two-part adventure you'll take a double decker tour of Manhattan and then board a New York Water Taxi at South Street Seaport. The water cruise ends at the Fulton Ferry Landing in Brooklyn, where you will reboard the Gray Line Night Loop Tour bus.

   The Statue by Night Tour runs daily between 6 and 9pm. The combination Night Loop and boat tickets are $59 for adults and $49 for children of ages 3-11.

¤  Summer Savings In Lehigh Valley (PA)

Your summer vacation won't break the bank if you take advantage of Lehigh Valley's new S.O.S. (Summer of Savings) Web-based travel promotion.

More than 50 area hotels, attractions, restaurants and shops are offering a wide range of discounts through Labor Day weekend.

Discounts are arranged in six categories: Activities, Arts & Culture, Lodging, Restaurants, Shopping and Services. The terrific deals include reduced price admission, buy-one-get-one-free, a percentage off a meal or purchase and more.

Particulars: www.lehighvalleypa.org/visitors/specialoffers/travelpackages.

Once you're on the site you can download and print out the discount coupons. Then present the coupon when placing an order or making a purchase, at the time of admission to an attraction, or when making a room reservation in order to receive the discount. About Lehigh Valley... The Lehigh Valley region of eastern Pennsylvania is located along the state border with New Jersey and is approximately one hour north of Philadelphia and an hour-and-a-half west of New York City.

It is home to the three cities of Allentown, Bethlehem and Easton and is the state's third largest metro region.

For a Lehigh Valley Map & Guide, call 800-747-0561 or visit www.LehighValleyPA.org.

June 2009

 
¤  New York City Hotel Packages: Reduced Prices!

TravelSmart's number one choice when it comes to New York hotel and theater packages is New York City Vacation Packages. Our readers continually tell us about their fine experiences with the company.

We just received word that for a limited time, prices have been reduced for select dates through March 2010. And the lower prices are for popular midtown hotels, including the Waldorf-Astoria and several Marriotts.

You can add on tickets to a Broadway Show, such as "Jersey Boys," "Wicked" or "Chicago.

All packages include:

• Accommodations for 2-nights or longer at a midtown Manhattan hotel
• All state and local taxes
• Free admissions to popular New York City sites and attractions, including several museums.

Particulars: www.nyctrip.com.

¤  Bike Rentals Available In 140+ US & Canadian Cities

You can now rent a bike in most major cities. Simply go to www.RentaBikeNow.com, select a destination, the dates involved and the type of bike you would like. You can rent a comfort bike, a road bike, a mountain bike, a kid's bike, recumbents and even kid's trailers.

The Web site has bike photos and specs, price ranges and shop hours and locations as well as information on bike tours with maps of the best biking routes at your destination.

You must make a refundable reservation deposit fee, using PayPal or a credit card.

Note: You pay the balance when you pick up your bike. You must cancel 7 days in advance to get a full deposit refund.

George Gill, president and founder of RentaBikeNow, told TravelSmart: "As the environment, gas prices and health awareness continue to make headlines, it's exciting to provide a service that addresses these critical issues. Our company has made biking more easily available for enthusiasts and casual cyclists alike."

¤  Military: $50 Off at Virginia's Lansdowne Resort

Peter Farone, Managing Partner at the resort, told TravelSmart that "we wanted to do something special for all our Active military serving our country. Each and every staff person would be honored to serve these dedicated individuals by providing our over the top service and the perfect setting for a family or friends getaway."

And so the Lansdowne is offering $50 off to those who show an Active Military ID at check-in on its many packages.

The elegant Lansdowne Resort, on 500+ acres pf secluded countryside, has 296 guest rooms and suites and is less than an hour from Washington (DC) and just 15 minutes from Dulles International Airport. It is the perfect place to relax, rejuvenate or refresh with family and friends. With 45 holes of championship golf, a spa, fitness center, a 5-pool aquatic complex and five restaurants, you can unwind and enjoy the $50 discount.

Our favorite package:

"The Sounds Of Summer Concert." It starts at $199/room/night and includes food and drink tickets, VIP concert seating and a donation to the USO. For an additional charge, the resort provides a kids' night out option, in which children can enjoy dinner and a movie while the parents sit under the stars.

Particulars: Call 877-509-8400 or visit www.lansdowneresort.com.

¤  Hotel Monaco Portland (OR) & The "Carless Vacation"

Portland (OR) was recently named the "Most Bike Friendly Community" by the League of American Bicyclists. And to encourage biking, the Kimpton Hotel Monaco came up with the "Carless Vacation Package."

It includes:

• Deluxe overnight accommodations
• Reimbursement for Trimet MAX Light Rail passes between the airport and hotel
• Access to the hotel's complimentary bikes
• A three hour "Historic Downtown" bike tour with Pedal Bike Tours
• Two $10 vouchers for post-tour drinks and snacks from the sustainable kitchen of chef Tom Dunklin at Red Star Tavern & Roast House, adjacent to Kimpton's Hotel Monaco Portland

Craig Thompson, general manager of the hotel, told TravelSmart: "We are offering this package for the growing number of eco-conscious travelers that want to share in the local experience by viewing our stunning parks, rivers, bridges and city streets by bike."

Particulars: The Hotel Monaco Portland (part of the extremely well run Kimpton group) is located in the heart of downtown at 506 SW Washington Street. For information or reservations, call (503) 222-0001 or visit www.monaco-portland.com.

¤  Kids' Restaurant Week

Your kids may like hot dogs and French fries but you crave sautéed salmon with wild rice and mushrooms.

Three cities -- Chicago, New York and Washington and two sponsors (Cookie and Gourmet magazines) have come up with the solution: Kids' Restaurant Week.

The prix-fixe menu for adults is $29; kids 11 and under pay their age -- provided you dine between 5 and 7pm.

Dates:

June 13-21 in Washington (DC)
June 20-28 in Chicago and New York

Particulars: www.kidsrestaurantweek.com

¤  Vienna, Prague or Budapest: Only $799 With Airfare

This "City Steal" winter package, which must be booked before August 1, is valid for travel between November 1 and December 10, 2009 and then again from January 4 to March 21, 2010.

It includes roundtrip economy class air from either New York (JFK) or Washington, DC (IAD), three hotel nights hotel in the city you select (Vienna, Prague or Budapest), daily buffet breakfast and hotel service charges and taxes.

Travel is valid any day of the week, subject to availability - no weekend surcharge applies. All hotels are centrally located, superior tourist class properties.

Bram Majtlis, president of Austrian Airlines Vacation Center, told TravelSmart: "This special package price (yes, it's actually $80 less than last year!) is only available for a limited period… So start planning your Thanksgiving in Budapest, Valentine's Day in Vienna or President's day in Prague – and get an unprecedented bargain!"

$TIP: To upgrade your City Steal Package to a first class, four-star hotel, add $140 per person; ask about a five-star package.

Note: The package must be paid in full within 7 days after reservations are confirmed, and no later than 14 days prior to departure. Once confirmed, the package is non-refundable, non-transferable and cannot be changed. Minimum stay is 3 nights or one Saturday overnight and maximum stay in Europe is 30 days. Package includes fuel surcharges but do not include US Customs / INS / Aphis fees / International Transportation Tax / Passenger Facility Charges / Civil Aviation Security Fee / domestic and foreign Security and Airport Charges of approximately $145.

Particulars: Austrian Airlines Vacation Center: 800-790-4682 or www.austrianair-vacations.com.

¤  Double Points At Choice Hotels International

After every qualifying stay at any MainStay Suites, Suburban Extended Stay Hotel, Econo Lodge or Rodeway Inn in the U.S. and Canada, you will automatically earn double Choice Privileges rewards points. The double points deal runs through August 13.

Combined with value-conscious nightly rates, free breakfast and free Internet access, this summer promotion will leave extra cash in your wallet for entertainment and fun.

Particulars:

To be eligible, you must join Choice Privilege (which is free) and then book your stay at www.choicehotels.com or by calling 800-4-CHOICE.

¤  New Gray Line Washington (DC) Tour With 'Two-for-One' Summer Offer

The new, 2-hour "Taste of DC" bus tour, which begins at Union Station, is an excellent bargain, at only $22/adult and $11/child.

$ Tip: Book this tour online for dates prior to August 30, 2009 and take advantage of the "Two-for-One" summer promo!

The tour takes you to the Capitol, the White House, World War II Memorial, Jefferson Memorial, Washington Monument, and the Smithsonian Museums.

It ends with a stop between the Air and Space Museum and the Native American Museum, or you can go back to Union Station.

Particulars: www.grayline.com/washingtondc.

Note: Tickets are available at Gray Line's Union Station kiosk located on the second floor bus level or at any Gray Line retail location throughout the city.

¤  Brandywine Valley & Sweetwater Farm B&B

Our "Checking In" columnist, Ward Morehouse, recently stayed at this charming inn, nestled on 50 rolling acres of meadows midway between Philadelphia and Wilmington. The beautifully decorated rooms are located in an 1815 Georgian manor house and 7 adjacent secluded guest cottages. All have private baths and AC.

Rates start at just $135 per night (for a dormer room) and include a 3-course gourmet breakfast, served in the manor house or on the outdoor patio.

Particulars: www.sweetwaterfarmbb.com.

Ward recommends having dinner at the historic Pace One Restaurant (610-459-3702) several miles away, in Thornton.

Note: Sweetwater Farm is ideal for fall foliage visits and for its proximity to the Brandywine River Museum (www.brandywinemuseum.org), home of three generations of Wyeth paintings, and the magnificent 1,050 acre Longwood Gardens (www.longwoodgardens.org).

Longwood, formerly a historic arboretum, was purchased by Pierre S. DuPont in 1906 to save it from being sold for lumber. Today it has 11,000 different types of plants, magnificent fountains, four acres of heated greenhouses and a great gift shop and cafe.

¤  Dining Near The Empire State Building: Meli Melo

Sooner or later, everyone winds up at the Empire State Building in New York City –- or they should because the views are spectacular.

That's a no brainer. But where to have lunch or dinner afterwards presents a dilemma, especially for out-of-town visitors. New Yorkers, however, know about Meli Melo, the delightful bistro on Madison Avenue, near 30th Street. Here chef/owner Bernard Ros, who was born in France near the Italian border, presents sophisticated French dishes with a Mediterranean accent in an elegant yet casual atmosphere.

There's a great long bar, a full dining room, plus tables by the windows in the front where you can watch the crowds pass by. The flowers and art are especially appealing.

Everything, and we mean everything, is fresh. The fish, pasta and Angus steak are excellent, as are the vegetables. On our most recent visit, we dined on tomato soup, asparagus salad, and swordfish with spinach. This was followed by New York City's best crème brulee. The house Chardonnay was way, way above average. And, Bernard gives you a generous amount of wine in a generous size glass -- not just a paltry inch of liquid, which is always irritating.

No loud music. No shrieking diners. Only fine food and fine service.

Particulars

Meli Melo, 110 Madison Avenue @ 30th Street, 212-686-5551.
Lunch: Daily, 11:30-4:30
Dinner: Daily, 4:40-11:30
Check out the menu and other details at: www.MeliMeloRestaurant.com.

$ Tip: Show your copy of TravelSmart for a free glass of wine with dinner.

Empire State Building, Fifth Avenue @ 34th Street.
Designed by Shreve, Lamb & Harmon, the 1,050 ft tall building is open daily from 9:30am to midnight. Last elevator going up leaves the lobby at 11:15pm. Military in uniform and kids under age 6, free. Buy tickets on the spot or, to avoid standing in line at www.esbnyc.com.

Bring quarters for the binoculars mounted on the outside Observation Deck on the 86th floor. Most spectacular times: Sunset and when the stars are out.