F8
The Impulsive Traveler
With package deals, haste averts waste
by Andrea Sachs
Relax at the Homestead? Not on my
watch. I had too much riding on this trip: The $110 extra I had paid for the Unlimited Activities package. The regal resort in the Virginia wilds
unveiled the special last summer to draw people through its columned por- tico. From $295 a night, guests receive a room plus unconditional access to a se- lection of diversions that, when priced separately, cost plenty more. The small print: You must take advantage of these activities — several of them, in fact — if you want your investment to pay off. “With this package, people go wild
trying to fit it all in,” said George, who led my archery session and later drove the tractor for my hayride.
Since the economic downturn, pack-
ages have become more prolific and popular as travel suppliers look for val- ue-added ways to cajole us out of the house. The strategy is pretty simple: Tack extra amenities, such as spa treat- ments or two meals a day, onto the basic vacation and charge below the list price. If it’s a good, honest package, the whole should cost less than the individ- ual parts. “The concept of packaging is very much in vogue today because of the re- cent financial problems,” said Peter Ye- sawich, chairman of Ypartnership, a marketing service that specializes in travel. “Bundling is in; unbundling is out.” Not surprisingly, consumers gravi-
tate to trips that are rich in experience yet light on the wallet and easy to plan. A study by Ypartnership found that, in the first quarter of this year, six out of 10 travelers considered packages a “very desirable attribute.” Additionally, Yesawich said, packages have really mushroomed in the past two years. “The supplier can give away stuff that’s low-margin, like a couple of drinks or a round of golf, and hold on to the stuff that has a higher margin, like the hotel room,” he said. “For the consumer, it’s a wonderful way of managing down the cost of a vacation.” A cynic might question the suppliers’ motives. Why, an incredulous person might ask, are the companies giving away extras for free or for a fraction of the cost? Were these items worthless to begin with, or are the operators really that generous, willing to sacrifice rev- enues for our pleasure? “You don’t have to be skeptical, but should you be savvy?” asked Donna Quadri-Felitti, a clinical assistant pro- fessor at New York University’s Tisch Center for Hospitality, Tourism, and Sports Management. “Yes.” Packages are the cookies that suppli- ers wag before our faces, hoping we’ll bite. Once we’re hooked, they hope we’ll spend beyond the package, in the bar, the gift shop, the restaurant or the spa. “The hotel is betting on you opening your wallet when you are there,” said Scott Berman, hospitality and leisure practice leader at Pricewaterhouse- Coopers. “When you have a chardonnay in your hand, you’ll feel the urge to splurge.”
three-hour scenic driving tour ($35), which, considering my four-hour drive to the pastoral resort, seemed superflu- ous. Yet on the shuttle from the pools to the archery targets, my driver sneaked in an impromptu tour. Noodling through the towns of Warm Springs and Hot Springs, Hugh pointed out fa- mous residents’ homes (Dave “Wendy’s” Thomas, Pat Robertson), civic struc- tures (the august courthouse, the for- mer jail) and the hilltop high school where a current Dallas Cowboy matric- ulated. Hugh personalized the ride with his
THE HOMESTEAD
Golf is just one of the all-you-can-do-for-one-price activities at the Homestead.
Yet before you plunk down money for
a package, it’s important to perform some self-analysis and elementary math.
First, consider whether those addi- tional amenities are to your taste. If you typically eat a muffin for your morning meal, then the breakfast plan is a waste. But if you’re an avid golfer, the greens fee deal is a perfect match, especially if it includes multiple rounds and a cart. “If two or three items don’t meet your needs, don’t get it,” said Quadri-Felitti. “But if you’re someone who takes ad- vantage of everything, then you’ve won.” To test the numbers, break down the
package into its components, checking the figures online or by phone. Then add them up and decide: package or a la carte. “The consumer has such an ad- vantage today with all of the available tools online,” said Berman. “It’s a pretty easy math assignment.” My research for the Homestead pack-
age started with the prices listed on the resort’s Web site. (Room rates typically start at $185.) I must admit, the dollar sign was as much a determinant as the sport itself. I could play a round of golf on the Lower Cascades Course ($125), for instance, or, for greater variety, string together a chain of lesser-priced activities. What I thought would be an easy ex- ercise (pick, book and go) turned into a brain-twisting puzzle. The problem was that many of the start times overlapped or were outside my time parameters of a 1:30 p.m. arrival to noon the next day. (Once the season picks up, the schedule for activities will loosen up, with more available times.) After much back and forth with the
reservationist, including multiple phone calls spread over many days, we cobbled together an Olympic itinerary of a group horseback trail ride ($42.50
for the half-hour), an hour of archery ($35), a 60-minute hayride ($20) and bowling ($12). The next day, I was down for the cascades gorge hike ($31), which started at 9:30 a.m. and threatened to run beyond my noon deadline. I hit the ground running as soon as I arrived at the Homestead, not even al- lowing myself a minute to sniff the toi- letries. While waiting for the shuttle to the stable, I asked a bellhop named Mi- chael whether he could help me squeeze in the famed Jefferson Pools, a resort tradition. It’d be tough: The shut- tle to the hot springs leaves at the bot- tom half-hour of the hour, and since my equine ride was at 1:45 and archery was at 3 and the pools closed at 5, plus my hayride had been rescheduled for an hour earlier (from 6 to 5), I was going to have to give up an activity — or miss the 98-degree soak. “It’s hard to jam it all in,” he said with empathy. “That was like me last month at Disney World.” But I would not admit defeat. With a bit of refiguring, we rescheduled arch- ery to 4 and slipped the centuries-old hot springs into the 2:30 slot. And with that, I hopped on the bus for my amble atop a 13-year-old mare named Ruthie. One of the included activities is a
More Travel this week
FRIDAY
Escapes detours off the main drag on a road trip to Ocean City, in
Weekend.
NEXT SUNDAY
The Impulsive Traveler hoofs it
around some Toronto neighborhoods, in
Travel.
own gossipy tales as Masseuse to the Stars. For 22 years, he worked on some of the most famous knotted muscles to visit the Homestead: Richard Gere (then-husband of Cindy Crawford), Henry Kissinger, Alexander Haig (“a talker”), Gerald Ford (out of office). And if you’ve ever wondered about that ru- mor concerning George Shultz and a Princeton Tiger tattoo, Hugh knows the truth — and he’s telling: Yes, Shultz, a former secretary of state, labor and Treasury, has one. By the time my post-archery hayride had sputtered to a close, it was nearly 6. But I wasn’t done yet. I sprinted over to the golf pro’s shop to see if I could man- age a few strokes before bowling. Un- fortunately, one of the major hazards here is getting lost. The resort sprawls like a university campus, and as a fresh- man, I spent an exasperating amount of time walking around in circles and squares. Due to this extra jaunt, I ar- rived too late; the shop was dark. Shut out.
Wise to the bowling lane’s hours, I ar- rived almost an hour before closing time, enough to eke out a game with myself. At that late hour, the only other bowlers were a Baltimore-area couple who were engagingly tipsy after an al- cohol-infused dinner. Gina was resplen- dent in a canary yellow cocktail dress paired with a black bolero jacket and green bowling shoes; Dennis was dap- per in a light-hued suit, crisp white shirt and loosened tie. I was adorned in a mash of equestrian-swimming-arch- ery-hayride attire, now with shoes to mismatch.
Gina and Dennis, avid golfers, had signed up for the meal plan and activ- ities package, which allowed them to play the hallowed Cascades Course for $85 (normally $250) and the Old Course for $45 (vs. $160). “We just go, go, go,” said Gina as Dennis bowled a strike behind her. “We had breakfast, played golf, had an hour to change for dinner, then we thought we’d try some bowling.” I asked Dennis if they’d try to stick in one more activity before their depar- ture the next day. “We just did too much,” he said, while Gina guttered a ball. “I need a rest after this vacation.” As for myself, after the morning wa-
terfall hike, I finally allowed myself a much-needed break. I sat down on a bench in the manicured garden and dipped my feet in the 104-degree hot spring. The foot bath was complimenta- ry, but after participating in $140.50 worth of activities, I could afford it.
sachsa@washpost.com
IF YOU GO
PACKAGES
The Homestead
7696 Sam Snead Hwy., Hot Springs, Va., 540-839-1766
www.thehomestead.com
The Unlimited Activities package starts at $295 per night (plus taxes and a 15 percent resort fee) for two guests and runs through Oct. 19. Deal includes such activities as fly fishing, skeet shooting, mountain biking, archery and more. Also, if you book by June 1 and stay two nights, the third night is free.
Bottom line: For $110 extra, guests receive accommodations (typically from $185) and a selection of activities. To make it a smart investment, go nuts on the activities or pick one of the more expensive diversions, such as golf (typically $125).
The Greenbrier
300 W. Main St., White Sulphur Springs, W.Va., 800-453-4858
www.greenbrier.com
The three-night Spring Into Action package goes for $390 (including taxes) and includes accommodations, two-for-one activity voucher per day, $20 slot play, 20 percent off spa treatments, free access to spa and sauna, and resort fee. Valid Sunday-Thursday through June.
Bottom line: Even if you don’t take the bunker (a.k.a. the former U.S. Government Relocation Facility) tour (ordinarily $30 per person) or watch a falcon land on a gloved arm ($89), you’ll come out ahead: A room in the intermediate category typically costs $299 per night, the resort fee is $25 per day, and gambling money typically comes out of your own wages.
Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn and Spa
100 Boyes Blvd., Sonoma, Calif. 866-540-4499
www.fairmont.com/en_fa
The Rejuvenation package, good year-round and for one or two people, includes guest room, daily breakfast, 60-minute spa treatment and free access to the European Bathing Ritual. From $432 double (less for solo travelers), with taxes.
Bottom Line: This package has muscle. Priced separately, breakfast is $23 per person, the treatment goes for $159 each and access to EBR is $39. Factor in the room rate of $199 to $599, and you can feel the sensation of a great deal.
Hotel/Theater/Dinner package in Toronto
800-461-3333
www.mirvish.com
With the TicketKing deal, choose a hotel (Sheraton Centre Toronto, Le Meridien King Edward or the Westin Harbour Castle), show (“Rock of Ages,” “Mamma Mia!,” “Fiddler on the Roof” or “Legally Blonde”) and three-course dinner at any of 14 restaurants. For two people, the package, with taxes, is $360 for the latter three productions, and $404 for “Rock of Ages.” Good through the summer.
Bottom Line: Theater tickets alone (in the $100 range each) eat up more than half the package price. Add in the hotel room, and you’ve more than surpassed the vacation total. To get the most value out of your meal, dine at a higher-end restaurant, such as Toula.
— A.S
KLMNO
SUNDAY,MAY 16, 2010
Inns, Lodges & Villas
MAINE
Bar Harbor/Ellsworth/Acadia Natl. Park
Stunning 4-bed lakefront summer home!
Fully equipped. See
Parksidevacationrentals.com
(Heron House) or call 804-472-5681.
MARYLAND
Ocean City,MD Paradise Plaza Inn
9th Street & Oceanfront - EXCELLENT BOARDWALK LOCATION. Oceanview Rooms, Suites with Upscale Amenities - Dairy Queen - Sunsations. Book nowand save. SUMMER SIZZLER from $189.95 per night + tax. Room with balcony & partial view. Subject to availability. Valid thru 8/31/10. Check online for hot deals & specials.
MARYLAND
Chesapeake BayWaterfront
St. Michaels,MD Harbourtowne Resort
Romantic getaways w/waterfront room overlooking Chesa- peake Bay. Pete Dye Golf Course, Pool,Tennis, Free WiFi. Great packages! 800-227-1587
www.Harbourtowne.com
OXFORDWATERFRONT
Exquisite! Upper end, 3 BRs, 3 BAs. Fireplace. Pool, tennis court & dock. Availability weekly,
weekends & holidays. 410-745-5255
ComeVacation with Us!
Deep Creek Lake,MD
Long & Foster Resort Rentals
White water rafting, fly fishing, hiking
and more. Ask about our Spring Specials! Pet friendly.
800.336.7303
www.DeepCreekResort.com
FIVE GABLES INN & SPA
ST. MICHAELS,MD
Spring Packages!
Check website for last-minute specials!
1-877-466-0100
www.fivegables.com
NEWYORK
info or brochure call 800-724-3136 or visit
www.riversidetowerhotel.com
Singles $124. Suites $139-$159
Lincoln Center area, Hudson River views, 18 floors, kitchenette. 5 minutes to Mid- town, safe, quiet, luxury area. RIVERSIDE TOWER, Riverside & 80th St. For more
RIVERSIDETOWER HOTEL
$129 for 2 persons
MASSACHUSETTS
MARTHA’S VINEYARD-PEQUOT HOTEL
Historic Inn - Victorian Village of Oak Bluffs One block to Beach, Shopping & Restaurants Complimentary Wi-Fi and European Breakfast.
Mention this ad for 1 Free Bike Rental!
800-947-8704
www.pequothotel.com
www.paradiseplazainn.com
1-888-678-0544
PENNSYLVANIA
18 Hr Sensation! 10%Off with ad!
18th cent. estate. All included: Broadway show, lodging, dinner, wine & cheese, country brkfast. Allenberry Resort Inn & Playhouse!
www.allenberry.com 800-430-5468
SOUTH CAROLINA
Hilton Head Island
www.hhisland.info
Plan a getaway with Seashore Vacations. Our beach is free. Specials available for golf, tennis, dining & more. There's shopping galore. Visit our site or call: 1-800-845-0077
N. MYRTLE BEACH
1,2 & 3BR oceanfront & ocean view condos, hi-spd internet, indoor & outdr pools, Jacuzzis, tennis, golf pkgs, beach club, more! Day/wk/mo. 1-800-345-5617
www.oceancreek.net
VIRGINIA
VIRGINIA BEACH 19Atlantic Hotel
Managers Special*
Stay one night & get the 2nd night 50% off. Stay 2 nights and get the 3rd night 50% off. Stay 3 nights and get the 4th night free. Sun-Thurs. only; not available with any other discounts or promotions. Excludes Memorial Day Weekend. Must call the hotel toll free 1-877-428-4440. 1 block from boardwalk. 68 stylish guest rooms, rooftop terrace, walk to shops, dining & beach. Free High Speed Internet.
www.19atlantic.com *Valid thru 5/31/2010
FUNNY FARM INN Open All Yr & Holidays!
75-acre horse farm. Lovely accomm. Breakfast, fpls., hiking. Kids/pets ok. 1.25 hrs DC. Spec. pkgs.
540-547-3481www.bbonline.com/va/funnyfarm
NORTH CAROLINA VIRGINIA
MIMSLYN INN SHENANDOAH VALLEY May Dinner &
Room Pkg. for Two $149
Midwk Spring Fling $89. Space limited.
800-296-5105
www.mimslyninn.com
SHENANDOAH RIVER LOG CABINS
Spring Getaway - Luray!
Hot tubs. TV. Canoe rentals.
www.shenandoahriver.com 1-800-622-6632
in Shenandoah National Park
Spend a laid back, leisurely day enjoying music, food and the surroundings at Skyland Resort. Bring your lawn chair and soak up the sights of springtime. Crafts and games for children. 11a.m. to 5p.m. Skyland is located at mile 41.7 on Skyline Drive.
www.visitshenandoah.com
SKYLAND RESORT
Saturday – May 15
Wildflower Spring Celebration
authorized concessioner of the National Park Service. Skyland Resort is managed by ARAMARK, an
WINTERGREEN a year-round escape!
Houses & condos. Daily, weekly & monthly. Great Rates! Activities for ALL ages!
1-888-788-0731
www.blueridgegetaways.com
WESTVIRGINIA
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WESTVIRGINIA
BAVARIAN INN
Historic Shepherdstown, 1hr fr.Washington, D.C.
AAA Four Diamond Inn
SpecialWeekday rate starting
at $99/night
Rooms with Potomac River Views,
Whirlpool Baths. Fine German and Continental Dining.
Wine Spectator Award.
Only 10 minutes from Charles Town Races &
Slots, soon to be Hollywood Casino with Table Games coming in July!
www.bavarianinnwv.com
1-304-876-2551 for special rate mention promo "POST"
"West Virginia Wild &Wonderful"
GREENBRIER RIVER CABINS
"The FrontYard is the Greenbrier River &
the BackYard is the Greenbrier River BikeTrail".
5 rustic modern cabins with all amenities. Large decks
& screened porches overlook the river. 1-800-CALL-WVA
304-653-4646 www.GreenbrierRiverCabins.Com West Virginia Wild andWonderful
SMOKE HOLE RIVERSIDE LOG CABINS
Just 2½ hours from DC-Seneca Rocks. Honeymoon & family log cabins. Jacuzzi, fpl., full kitchen. Great hiking! Weekday special.
www.smokehole.com 800-828-8478
THEWOODS
Summer Getaway Package:
Stay 2 nts, get 3rd night FREE! (Thru 8/31/10).
Walden or Evergreen Lodges. Consecutive nts. only, no holidays or holiday wknds). TheWoods is located 90 mi. fromDC&offers: Sleepy Creek Spa, Golf, Swimming, Dining, Hiking,Tennis&more!
www.TheWoods.com or 888-699-2221
CARIBBEAN
BARBADOS OCEANFRONT VILLA
On Bluff...Overlooking Ocean!
4 bedrooms, 4 baths, a/c, 2 pools and private stairs to beach! Owner: 703-527-5154
CARIBBEAN
ST.MAARTEN
www.beachsidevillas.com
OCEANEDGE, upscale 1, 2, 3 BR
A/C Villas. Fully Equipped Kitchen, BBQ. Daily housekeeping, free WI-FI cable TV. Perfect vacation all year!
Call Owner Yolanda 313-884-7706
COSTA RICA
CASA LUMENEZ Pacific Coast LUXURY
5BR dream villa with breathtaking ocean views. Perfect for year-round luxury stays. Ideal for privacy seekers yet near beach, restaurants & more!
www.casalumenez.com
ITALY
ITALY RENTALS 202-333-6247
Quality villas, farmhouses & apts. Also Rome, Florence, Venice apts. Personalized service from Italy specialists. Free catalogs. ITALIANVACATION VILLAS
www.villasitalia.com
Northern Italy Private Tours
Unique tours for individuals, families or groups. Choose from existing itineraries or customize your own!
www.VaFeltre.com or (571)- 239-3889
Inns, Lodges
& Villas
A year-round
advertising marketplace!
202-334-7003
1-800-627-1150
boucharda@washpost.com
Does this page look familiar? TheWashington Post is printed using recycled fiber.
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