Great Getaways for Island Lovers

Election getting you down? Stock portfolio sliding into oblivion? You need a break. These days you’ll find some fabulous deals and steals on islands all around the globe. What are you waiting for? Get packing!


Gas for Golfers on Vancouver Island

Price of gas driving you down instead of onto the fairways? Fear not. Book a minimum two-night, two-round golf vacation through Golf Vancouver Island, home to some of Canada’s finest golf resorts, and you’re entitled to a free gas card. The hook? The value of your card depends on the number of people in your party. Current values are: $50 for a twosome, $100 for a foursome, and up to $250 free gas for larger groups. Cards are available on a first come, first served basis and quantities are limited. Although the driving distances on the Island never seem too far it’s certainly nice to know that someone other than you is paying for the petrol. Gentlemen (and ladies), start your engines. www.golfvancouverisland.ca

Mamma Mia! What a Deal on Santorini!

One of the leading boutique properties in Santorini – that iconic Greek island all over movie screens this summer and glimpsed in Mamma Mia* – is offering a fall special for the first time ever. Through October 31, Astra is providing guests who stay for three nights, a fourth night free – a 25 percent savings off the regular rates. The “Fall in Love at Astra” package starts at about $1,100 and includes a traditional Greek breakfast daily, champagne and chocolates served at sunset on the second day, and taxes – a savings of about $360.

High up on a cliff overlooking the Aegean, offering a bird’s eye view of the 3,600-year-old caldera, Astra provides genuine Greek hospitality in a setting of simple elegance. . Consistently rated one of the top three on the island, this boutique hotel has a loyal following with guests returning year after year.

In October, as chilly winds begin to blast the U.S., a refreshingly cool breeze finally arrives on the beautiful Cycladic island of Santorini, where average temperatures hover around 70 degrees Fahrenheit. With the temperate weather and no summer crowds, visitors can relax in luxurious accommodations at a substantial savings
Opened this year, Astra’s restaurant serves delicious fresh fish and Santorinian specialties under the stars.

Astra’s special offer is good through October 31, depending on availability. The rate for a standard apartment is about $367 or €250 and includes: a bottle of Santorini wine upon arrival, daily maid service and a traditional Greek breakfast of yoghurt and fruit, eggs, ham, cheese – served on the guest’s private balcony. For more information about Astra Apartments and Suites, go to www.astra-apartments.com or www.astra.gr.

P.S. While most of Mamma Mia was shot in the Sporades Islands of Skiathos and Skopelos, Grecophiles know that several iconic views were really Santorini

Marsh Harbour, Abaco Bahamas

Abaco Beach Resort at Boat Harbour announces its Fourth Night Free special, valid now through December 18, 2008. When guests book three nights at the resort, they will receive the fourth night complimentary. With upcoming long weekends from school for Veteran’s Day and Thanksgiving, this special provides the perfect opportunity for families looking for a quick escape with the kids to experience the warm tropical weather, beautiful natural surroundings and great variety of family activities at Abaco Beach.

Abaco Beach Resort features 88 rooms that include suites, ocean front rooms and six cottage style villas. The villas in particular are a great choice for families, with two bedrooms, a fully-equipped kitchen, spacious living room, two full bathrooms, a flat screen television and DVD player, a veranda and lots of storage space.

Abaco Beach Resort is home to the largest marina in the Bahamas –a perfect hub for fabulous day trips to explore the Out Islands. Pack a picnic and enjoy lunch on a secluded beach on one of the outer cays. Go snorkeling or scuba diving and explore the vast undersea world. Play tennis or beach volleyball, go for a family bike ride, or plan a sailing excursion. Windsurfers, hobie cats, Sunfish and paddle boats are available at the resort for guests free of charge. Or just indulge in the simplest option of all – take a swim in the blue ocean waters, search for sea shells, and lounge on the beach and finish a novel while the kids create a sandcastle masterpiece choose from many local charter services. The Abacos are just a 50 minute flight from the east coast of Florida.www.abacobeachresort.com.

This fall and winter looks to be filled with great island deals!