Yes the economy is in a downturn, unemployment is still below the national average and many people are watching their finances as well as the stockmarket but why not treat you and your sweetheart to a much needed break from the hassle of life. There is no better time than Valentine’s and even better it’s a three-day weekend (President’s Day id 2/15)! If you find yourself with extra cash flow and want a little fun in the sun or a quick trip out-of-town, I compiled a few last-minute travel hotspots, plus some cute, maybe cheesy, romantic ideas in the name of “love”.

CARIBBEAN FUN
Depending on where you live, winter is brutal this time of year, with snowfall up to 30 inches, so if you’re looking for a break from the winter gear head to North America’s neighbor. Always a great and inexpensive destination, lovers or the whole family, can frolic in the sun, visit the ruins and lounge around sipping some tropical concoction.

Resort Deals
Villa Del Arco - 4 star luxury resort- 50% off 4nights or more as
low as $160.00 p/n .

Head off to Belize and Costa Rica. For travel deals visit: http://www.perfectfamilyvacation.com/deals.

Occidental Hotels- Located in Mexico’s Riviera Maya region, is
offering free rounds of golf and up to 30% off rates with minimum stays through April 30, 2010. Round trip transportation to the golf course is also included, as well as snacks and beverage consumed at the course + a shared golf cart!

NEW YORK/NEW ENGLAND
North America, Finger Lakes Wine Country, New York is also the largest wine country destination east of California. Finger Lakes Wine Country offers couples a wealth of activities and plenty of opportunity to cozy up by the fire with a glass of world-class wine. Weekend package will also receive a FREE bottle of Finger Lakes wine. Visit: FingerLakesWineCountry.com.

The Harborfront Inn is Long Island’s North Fork in the heart of Long Island wine country overlooking the water. Spend the romantic weekend at the Valentine’s Day with a romantic getaway weekend offered Friday, February 12th through Sunday, February 14th. The price varies by room but the range is $179 to $349. Visit: www.theharborfrontinn.com.

The eco-luxury, Four Diamond, Inn by the Sea is the most romantic spot for a V-day getaway. On the coast of Maine, the Inn boasts great spa suites with panoramic ocean views, king beds, spacious bathrooms and a living room and galley kitchen on a lower level. Enjoy the full service spa with coastal treatments that will put any couple into the mood for love.

Woods Hole Inn is a great package is a great New England destination. Packages include a couple’s massage. Check it out: http://woodsholeinn.com/packages.html

The Red Clover Inn, Restaurant & Tavern in Killington, in Vermont is a fabulous Valentines destination. Located in the secluded mountainside they offer guests ski & ride shuttle service to the mountain, in-room fireplaces and Jacuzzis, an on-site Tavern with pub fare and our amazing restaurant that serves plus American cuisine with a European flair. For February 13th and 14th rooms range from $195 - $340.

SOUTHERN COMFORT

Snuggle with your honey at the Ocean Resort Hotel & Spa in Atlantic Beach, Florida. Romantic experiences range from $295 to $695 and provide savings up to 28 percent.
Gansevoort South Resort “NAUGHTY BUT NICE PACKAGE,” sexy South Beach, Miami retreat, including champagne, chocolate covered strawberries, robes, the playful “mile high” kit and more. This package is sure to bring out a wild side in even the tamest twosomes. Visit: www.gansevoortsouth.com, package starting from $395.

1847 Blake House Inn B&B in Asheville, NC is an eclectic and romantic city. It appeals to many different types of people from artists and musicians to tourists and part-time residents.

The Carolina Inn, in Chapel Hill, offers two memorable romance packages, an assortment of romantic amenities, 5-course theme tasting menu and special prizes! Its “Divine Romance Package” starts as low as $217 per couple per night and including sparkling wine and chocolate-covered strawberries upon arrival, a full breakfast for two
and a late check-out.

MIDWEST LOVE
In Chicago, the Toast on The Magnificent Mile, presented by Moet is a month-long campaign throughout February. What can be more romantic than a FREE fireworks display lighting the sky and skyline over the Chicago River? Enjoy one of 60 offers that the area businesses are featuring during the event. For a complete listing of events, hotel packages, retail ’shop and sips’ and more, visit www.themagnificentmile.com

CUTESY SWEETHEART IDEAS

Lingerie Letters are packages turned sexy. Letters include a panty or a matching set (bra, panty, sometimes accessories) with a customized message printed onto a tag. This is wrapped in a black, unmarked envelope and delivered to your place choice. You can also send the gift anonymously. Prices range from $24.99 for the Original Lingerie Letter to $48.95 for a Premium Set. For more info: http://www.pantyonthevine.com/p/media.aspx

How cute: I found this “Bliss in a Bottle.” Sher-Bliss, family owned since 1945, offers signature wine or champagne (your choice of over 500 different varieties of hard to find wines from all over the world, including
Californian, French, Italian, Australian and South African) safely
hand-dipped in Maramor chocolate and beautifully decorated for your love. For more on Bliss check out their website: www.blissinabottle.com