Spa packages are one of the most popular getaways for women for obvious reasons.

Most spa getaway and retreats pamper you to the maximum.

You eat healthy and get massages and clay facials, manicures and maybe get in a yoga class or two while you are there.

There is a lot of relaxing time and quiet time to reflect if you are by yourself or to talk and catch up with girlfriends, daughters or mothers. We have found the 5 perfect spa escapes for a girls’ weekend around the world.

1. Located in the Midwest and centrally located to every other state in America is Missouri. Within Missouri is Branson which has typically been known as the mini-Vegas and mini-Nashville in the Midwest.

Branson Missouri has a resort and spa called the Chateau on the Lake Resort & Spa that is the perfect spa getaway. Packages begin at $480 per person for a two night stay including massage, body wrap, pedicure and all access to spas and saunas.

2. There is a beautiful and luxurious lap of relation in La Fortuna Costa Rica called the Tabacon Grand Spa Thermal Resort. You can get four nights at the resort including breakfast and lunch at the Ave del Paraiso restaurant, a facial, massage and mani-pedi for just $740.

3. In Scottsdale Arizona the JW Marriott Camelback Inn offers spa specials including two facial or massages daily plus breakfasts for just $765 (includes airfare from Los Angeles International Airport). You will need to call for details and to make reservations.

4. Utah seems to be the center for relaxing spa and retreat locations. There are two different areas in Utah that has a plethora of spas; St. George and Park City Utah. In St. George Utah you can stay either at the Lodge at Woodlock or the Red Mountain Resort.

Both accommodations offer somewhat affordable packages including treatments and pampering sessions.

5. Utah’s Park City consists of the Dakota Mountain Lodge and Golden Door Spa. You can stay two nights at the Dakota Mountain Lodge which includes breakfasts each morning, one dinner and a massage or a facial.

There are many packages and deals for girls groups between August and December.

Even more beautiful and glorious would be staying at a romantic, quaint and intimate bed and breakfast on the east coast in the historic and beautiful state of Maine.

In Kennebunkport Maine, just on the coast, there is a bed and breakfast called Captain Lord. Captain Lord is an extremely romantic and quaint bed and breakfast with fireplaces in the guests’ rooms.

There is another little quaint and romantic spot in Maine near Brooksville, near the water and that is called the Oakland House. The Oakland House has been restored for guests and is just by the sea. There are also romantic cottages near the sea on the acreage of the Oakland House.

Couples can opt for renting a cottage by the sea and have their privacy and romance while having perfect and beautiful access to the sea and oceanfront at the same time. There is a romantic restaurant at the Oakland House and the restaurant offers lobster picnics during the summer on the beach.

The Bear Mountain Inn is located in Waterford Maine. This sweet and intimate bed and breakfast has many different packages for their couples including for couples who want to elope at the bed and breakfast.

Bear Mountain Inn has afternoon tea with homemade baked goods. The bed and breakfast is tucked into the beautiful mountains of Waterford Maine and despite all of the nature and beauty the Inn still offers its guests free WiFi. Luxury suites at the Inn give guests a fireplace, a Jacuzzi and wet bar.

The Brewster Inn is located in Dexter Maine. This bed and breakfast looks like a sweet older home with windows everywhere. For those considering a winter get-away in Maine the Brewster Inn is the perfect destination.

There is a honeymoon suite which comes complete with a Jacuzzi tub, fireplace and four-poster bed. The Brewster Inn looks like a building straight out of England and is just an hour from Bangor and an hour from Moosehead Lake.

The Brewster Inn has also been recognized by the National Register of Historic Places. Previous Governors of Maine and Government Senators of Maine have called the Brewster Place their home.

Where to stay when you’re in Thailand will be your toughest decision so here are a few listed accommodation options in the Phuket Island area of Thailand.

Phuket Island

There is so much to see and do when you visit what is considered Asia’s number one vacation destination. Phuket Island has a numerous beach resorts and a variety of fun activities such as snorkeling, swimming and boating.

Patong Beach Hotels

Impiana Phuket Cabana can be found right on Patong Beach with its long stretch of sand. At Impiana Phuket Cabana you will find luxury without the high price tag.

The resort is ideal for beach lovers that want to step out of their room into the sun and onto the sand. You’ll find 80 cabins with the flair of Thai décor while surrounded by waving palms. Enjoy lounging on your private terrace.

La Flora is ideal for honeymooners looking for privacy, romance and luxury. Steps from the beach, accommodations include a Pool Villa. The Surface Bar has fabulous vistas.

The hotel is located on just over an acre of land nearly right on the white sand of Patong Beach. Elegant accommodations with delicious dining options, quality service and a high standard of excellence make La Flora one of the best choices for those celebrating their love.

Royal Paradise Hotel has some great features with a price that can’t be beat. The sky lounge is at the top of Phuket’s tallest construction where guests can drink in the views of the Andaman Sea with her crescent bays, lush green mountains wherever you turn and other islands of Thailand in the distance. Choose one of 248 rooms and all have superb vistas of the island and almost all of them have private balconies.

Phuket, Thailand isn’t just home to Patong Beach but also Bangtao Beach, Kata Beach and Karon Beach. Research each of the areas and decide which one suits you best.

In each location you will find a wide range of beach hotels with a myriad of amenities. You won’t believe the prices of Thailand beach accommodations as they seem too good to be true, but they’re not.

Thailand is an experience you won’t forget and if you are a fan of Thai food, sampling the cuisine in its country of origin is sure to be a thrill to the palate. When you’re contemplating vacation destinations, keep Thailand high on the list.

Located on Lake Ontario’s northern shore there is great scenery and it is a unique setting to relax in and enjoy.

It is fast becoming a very trendy spot for both Canadians and international tourists who flock to the area every summer. A reservation is essential to avoid disappointment so be sure to have a few different eateries in mind just in case.

With its French influence coming to the fore, it is no surprise to find many restaurants specializing in, infamous crepes and other French delights. One example is Le Papillon which was recently proclaimed the best in the vicinity, with its extensive wine list and varied menu.

Food can be eaten from around the world as there are a variety of international chains with a restaurant in the Harbourfront area. IL Fornello is a very unique experience here, with an outstanding décor consisting of a large patio area lined with enormous glass doors.

Another popular eatery for all the family, which proclaims that every diner will get a brilliant view, is the Boathouse Bar & Grill.

For a more casual café vibe, the Lakeside Terrace provides the entire atmosphere with a more relaxed style. This is just one of the various places to eat in Queen’s Quay which is a historic part of Harbourfront.

For a taste of Canada, there is a place named after the famous athlete, Wayne Gretzy, which serves home style cooking at very reasonable prices. There is something for all tastes to enjoy here.

Visitors flock to this fabulous vacation destination each year for the sun, sand and its small town atmosphere.

There is much more to Cape May than just her fabulous beaches, but you need a place to lay your head at the end of the day.

A Bed & Breakfast is ideal for a lodging option. A Bed & Breakfast is much more personal than if you stay at a hotel. You will find yourself on a first name basis with the other guests and your hosts.

The Queen Victoria

This B&B is said to be one of the most renowned in the country and has been welcoming tourists since 1980. The Queen Victoria offers guests beach chairs and towels, free use of the bicycles on the premises, rooms with whirlpool tubs, a full breakfast buffet and an afternoon tea you won’t want to miss because of the savory treats and self-indulgent sweets.

It’s just a short block to the ocean; you can walk to the mall and can take a bicycle ride to the Cape May Point Lighthouse. It is right in the center of Cape May and within easy access of all the charm you came to Cape May to enjoy.

Victorian Lace Inn

A typical seaside residence that is a slice of heaven for couples as well as families is what you’ll find at the Victorian Lace Inn. Not only does it have visual appeal, each suite is lovingly decorated complete with a kitchenette and a living area.

You can have coffee or breakfast out on the front porch just a few feet from the sea. In the winter, curl up in a comfy chair by the fireplace with a good book.

The Gingerbread House

You will have to move fast to beat Hansel and Gretel to the Gingerbread House. Only a few steps from the ocean, the inn is said to be situated on one of Cape May’s most famous blocks. It is a masterpiece of woodworking and decorated with taste and flair.

The rooms are bright and airy; the porches are filled with comfortable wicker furniture beckoning guests to sit awhile. In the morning a full breakfast is served complete with homemade coffeecakes and granola.

Afternoons signal the serving of tea to guests and rooms have LED televisions, AC, a refrigerator and a shower outdoors to rinse off the salt and sand when you return from the beach.

No matter if you are visiting Sydney for business or for pleasure, you will find everything you need that will include the natural splendor and beauty as well as a lifestyle that is cosmopolitan and contemporary of the Harbour City of Sydney.

Many of the 5 star accommodations in Sydney take advantage of the spectacular views of Sydney Harbour as well as a relaxing and refreshing waterside setting.

The Australian people are world renowned for their friendly hospitality and you can rest assured that your stay in Sydney will be a unique experience.

Quay West Suites- 98 Gloucester St., The Rocks, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia

Quay West can be found amidst the historic area of the Rocks. These luxurious accommodations overlook The Botanical Gardens, the Opera House and Circular Quay to the east and to the west is Sydney Harbour Bridge, while it fronts the magnificent Sydney Harbour.

Quay West Suites features exclusive apartments for short corporate stays or for those that are taking a longer vacation. Each apartment offers you spectacular views of the Sydney skyline or panoramic vistas over Sydney Harbour. A wide selection of luxurious amenities awaits those that opt to stay at Quay West Suites.

The Shangri-La Hotel-176 Cumberland St., The Rocks, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia

Guests can experience Sydney from the comfort and luxurious setting of the Shangri-La Hotel. This hotel is an award winner for “Most Popular City Hotel” and “Best High-Tech Hotel.” The Shangri-La raises the bar for those accommodations considered to be 5 star.

The 563 guest accommodations afford you views that are more than extraordinary and suites and rooms that are sumptuously appointed and spacious. Amenities are lavish and luxurious for the discriminating traveler.

Sebel Pier One Sydney- 11 Hickson Road, Walsh Bay, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia

Sebel Pier One was the first hotel in Sydney that was built over and on the water. The Sebel Pier One takes full advantage of the spectacular waterfront setting. There are 161 rooms which combine restored historical architecture along with interior features that are fully modern.

Guests of the hotel can enjoy bridge or harbour views from each of the rooms or suites. The Sebel Pier One boasts facilities and services that are above and beyond what one would expect from 5 star accommodations. Visitors should note that all guest rooms are non smoking.

When you visit Ireland you have the chance to undergo first hand, a slice of history that is uniquely Irish.

Whether you have deep pockets or are traveling on a tight budget [Budget travel], you are sure to find the ideal Irish Castle for your holiday accommodations.

4 Star Irish Castle Accommodations

Castle Durrow in County Laois is considered to be Country House Hotel that can be found in the centre of the Irish Midlands. It is just a ninety minute drive from the city of Dublin. You are encouraged to relax and take in the spectacular surroundings of Castle Durrow.

It has been restored with love to invoke its glorious past, though it is chock full of contemporary amenities for the comfort of its guests.

Abbeyglen Castle Hotel can be found in Clifden in County Galway. With its battlements and turrets, Abbeyglen Castle blends well with the countryside of Connemara.

Combining a setting that is relaxed and intimate with the grandeur of castle living, Abbeyglen dates back to 1824 and is in close proximity to the village of Clifden, a popular tourist destination.

Abbeyglen Castle is run by Brian and Paul Hughes, brothers that are hard working in order to present guests an atmosphere that is both warm and welcoming in a friendly and informal castle.

5 Star Irish Castle Accommodations

Ashford Castle in County Mayo is known as one of the most dazzling luxury resorts in Ireland. Perched on the bank of the Lough Corrib, you can enjoy recreational facilities that are complementary such as falconry and vacation cruises.

Visitors to Ashford Castle will be treated royally as they vacation like a king or queen. The Estate was once the home of the Guinness family and dates back to the year 1228. Ashford Castle first opened its doors as a hotel in 1929 and has been impressing guests ever since.

Waterford Castle in County Waterford is the ultimate accommodations for luxury and splendor. It is considered to be an “island hotel” and is a serene oasis that overlooks the Suir River’s estuary.

The Waterford Castle can only be reached by a private ferry and once you arrive upon the island, time seems to stand still as you meander through the entrance that is lined with trees that leads to the castle.

The castle is more than 800 years old. Spectacular surroundings lend themselves to the sheer luxury of the Waterford Castle where you can imagine you are King of all your survey during your magnificent holiday.

Just about everything is included such as gratuities, food, beverages, water sports and entertainment.

Finding an all inclusive for the whole family can be difficult, but the resorts run by Beaches are some of the best all inclusives you will find.

Programs for All Ages

Beaches [Beach Trips] have programs and entertainment for children of all ages. Infants have access to babysitters so mom and dad can enjoy themselves. The kids will get to vacation with Elmo and his cast of characters. There is a game garage that has XBOX360game system.

There is Pirates Island for the kids to splash about and in Jamaica they even have golf for the children. All the kids’ camps are supervised and there are large water slides to bring smiles to every face.

Moms and Dads can enjoy their own swim up bar and the kids also have a soda swim up bar. There is a kids and teen disco and there are even pools for the toddlers.

All activities are arranged by age groups and for those with little ones there are certified nannies to take good care of the babies. Kids will enjoy self serve ice cream and sodas and there are even themed restaurants where they can eat their favorite foods such as pizza and burgers.

Your child can participate in a treasure hunt and when all else fails they can take time out to play in the game room.

Kids can enjoy a breakfast with their favorite characters from Sesame Street, have a dance with Zoe and make beautiful music with Bert and Ernie. Beaches resorts in Negril and the Turks and Caicos feature water parks which will thrill the little ones.

You can do as much as you like with the children when it comes to water sports or you can send them off to their own fun pursuits with other children in their age group while you relax at the pool or on the beach. Evening entertainment is not only geared for adults, but for the kids too.

When the parents are ready to pamper themselves, the children are having the time of their life; they can visit the Red Lane Spa where they can indulge themselves in a variety of relaxing beauty treatments that will soothe away their tension.

Golf outings as well as scuba diving adventures can be arranged and for a real romantic twist, you can even plan a romantic wedding and honeymoon that includes the children.

Check out the various Beach Resorts in the Caribbean and start making your vacation plans today. You will never want to holiday anywhere else once you have had a taste of the Beaches hospitality.

There are at least 1170 square miles of nature in all its breathtaking splendor.

Altitudes in the park range from two thousand feet to over thirteen thousand feet above sea level.

It boggles the mind that Yosemite is so close to busy metropolises such as Reno, Nevada and Los Angeles and San Francisco in California.

Though Yosemite is dedicated to keeping the park pristine, there are a variety of conveniences that can be accessed year round so that guests that visit anytime of year will be well taken care of while they make the most of Yosemite while respecting the park.

The Ahwahnee Hotel

A Four Diamond triple AAA, The Ahwahnee Hotel is one of Yosemite shining stars. Its architecture is distinctive and was built to make the most of its unique surroundings.

A few features that guests enjoy are the Yosemite Falls, Glacier Point and Half Dome. The Ahwahnee Hotel is where presidents, queens and other notables make their home base. It is the ideal balance of elegance, hospitality and unique history.

Wawona Hotel

Step back into an era that is long gone when you stay at the Wawona Hotel. It holds a place on the National Historic Landmark register and is surrounded by streams for fishing and opulent meadows.

It is a place for those that prefer an environment that is more relaxed and boasts a gracious charm that is hard to resist.

You can stroll the grounds of the historic property, make golfing arrangements at the Audubon Certified Sanctuary or take a stable ride. Snowshoeing and cross country skiing are also popular pursuits when you stay at the Wawona Hotel.

Curry Village in Yosemite

It was in the year 1899 that Jenny and David Curry decided to open a camp for tents so that everyone could enjoy the splendor of Yosemite at a budget price.

Today the village is referred to as Camp Curry and offers visitors to the park inexpensive lodging that is comfortable and is in the shadow of the stunning Half Dome and Glacier Point. For those that like their trip to Yosemite to be a little more authentic, then Curry Camp is the place to head.

Yosemite Housekeeping Camp

Located in the middle of Yosemite Valley along the Wild and Scenic Merced River, Yosemite Housekeeping Camp is another lodging option for those that want to experience Yosemite the way it was meant to be experienced.

You can camp outdoors and not have to set up your own tent. Added amenities are fabulous views of Half Dome and Yosemite Falls as well as sandy beaches where you can sunbathe or swim.

Yosemite Housekeeping Camp is the only option for lodging that offers a campfire ring so that you can do your cooking outdoors.

The airline and hotel reservations have plunged; compelling the travel agencies and even the luxury five star hotels to offer incredible bargains and special treatments, in order to curb this drastic decline in occupancy.

The times have changed and we are back to when the rare travellers who could afford to stay at hotels, where always welcomed with exclusive hospitality.

According to a report from the Smith Travel Research, hotel reservations have plummeted, registering a difference in loss of $828 since November 2008, compared to the same period the year before.

Hotel construction has also stalled due to the decline in demand and consequently the stock performance has fallen 56%.

Those who are suffering the most are the luxury hotels that have recorded a decline of 15% to 24% in their occupancy. Business travellers are now choosing the less expensive hotels in order to keep their companies’ budgets in check.

Although the less expensive hotels have not suffered as much loss as the five star ones, they have had to implement measures to cut down costs, notably in the hiring of staff.

All of this makes it a once in a lifetime opportunity to take advantage or near empty luxury hotels and resorts all around the world that are begging for your business and will cut back prices to the lowest rate they can just to fill some rooms and maybe make a killing on the mini-bar.