Monday, March 31, 2008

Low Cost Mini-Breaks

One thing I know about men, is that they ALWAYS make time for themselves. Whether it’s signing up a basketball league, scheduling monthly golf rounds or watching the game with friends, men never seem too “busy” to make time for themselves. Women on the other hand (at least most that I know), make up a zillion excuses why we “can’t” make time for ourselves…kids, job demands, budget tight, etc, etc, etc.

Now, with gas prices hitting records highs (since when is $3.09/gallon at Costco considered cheap gas???) and airfare prices hitting the roof, going on a simple roadtrip or weekend getaway may be too costly. Here are a few ideas for getting your Queen Bee time in, without breaking the bank:

1. Book a night or two in your own city’s downtown area. Check out the ultra-trendy, Kimpton Hotel chain. Definitely created to make the everyday traveler feel like a VIP, each hotel has a variety of themed suites and packages, perfect for a fabulous night out with friends! Check out Chicago’s Hotel Allegro’s Rock Star Suite and settle in for a swank night of fun and gossip with your diva friends. Or book one of their specialty packages, such as the Celebrity Hedonist which includes the following:

Imagine a little celebrity of your own. Be a star and paint the town red with this package:
~ Accommodations in a Premier King Guest Room
~ Pre-party, top shelf, cocktail hour in your sparkling, newly renovated guestroom
~ Get VIP access to the hottest clubs—no long lines, no cover charges
~ Option for a late checkout—feel free to sleep in the next morning
~ Day After kit that includes bottled water, a baseball cap and an eye-cooling mask
~ Hosted evening wine reception in our lobby living room
~ Needs to be booked three days prior to arrival
*Must contact the concierge for pre-party set-up and night club choices


DC’s Hotel Helix also offers various getaway packages, such as the Dive into Divadom, which includes a personal shopper, limo service, champagne and other fun extras!

2. Hail a cab and book a Nail Taxi party. Nail Taxi, a mobile nail boutique, brings the nail salon to you! What could be better than relaxing in your own basement-turned salon or hotel suite, with cocktails/mocktails, while getting a superb manicure and pedicure!?

3. Shop indoors – Simple and fun. Hunt down your friendly Mary Kay, Passion Parties or Body Shop at Home consultant for night in of SHOPPING! A new trend that’s hitting the streets of DC and LA, AccessSoiree parties bring hip handbags and accessories to you and your girlfriends, while you shop in the comfort of your home. Hello!


Stay tuned for more budget-friendly escapes that will keep you calm and connected, without maxing out your plastic! More cool ideas - post them in the comments section! ;)

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