It's sad to say, but those blissful rose-filled summer days are quickly coming to an end. Yes, long warm nights will soon give into short cold days, and you'll be dreaming of those summer vacations. So, why not sneak in one last getaway to get you through winter?
You might be thinking that it's too late or it's simply too much to plan. But, there are plenty of options for easy trips to suit any traveler desire. Want beach, decadent dining, or something within driving distance? Here are six hassle-free Labor Day vacations you can book right now.
It's just a 90-minute flight to reach the stunning island filled with pink beaches and blue waters. And now is the perfect time to visit as Relais & Châteaux debuted a new property in the spring. Following a head-to-toe renovation, Rosedon (owned by the Kitson Family for three generations) is located just a few minutes from the colorful capital of Hamilton and boasts a sustainable culinary and wine program, and modern wellness offerings (think: crystals energized by the family ownership team). The colonial-style house is surrounded by perfectly manicured landscape with tropical gardens full of blue passion flowers and birds of paradise, making it the perfect home base to relax and explore.
Pretty much all of New York has transplanted to the Bahamas since April 2018. Why? Well, that's when Baha Mar opened marking a new era for island. The property actually encompasses three brands—Grand Hyatt, SLS and Rosewood—giving a variety of options for vibe from family-friendly to party lovers. Each has access to the largest casino in the country, the first flagship ESPA spa in the Caribbean, and an 18-hole Jack Nicklaus Signature designed golf course. That's in addition to a white sand beach and pools galore, of course.
If you're looking for a destination where the pace is slower, but you don't want a full-on tropical getaway, look no further than Charleston. The charming city does have some beaches, but it's more about the history, architecture, and food. Stay at the luxurious French Quarter Inn and go shopping on King Street (stop at American Theatre to take photos where The Notebook filmed). Make sure to check out Magnolia Plantation or Boone Hall Plantation for your dose of the past, and book a table at Fig, Husk and SNOB for some of the best Southern cooking you'll ever eat. You're guaranteed to leave the weekend full and happy.
Who says you have to go far from New York to have an incredible vacation? A 70-minute drive south takes you Asbury Park that once inspired Bruce Springsteen. The seaside city underwent a transformation over the past couple of years becoming a hot spot for design, food and entertainment. Asbury Ocean Club Hotel just opened its doors last month as a premier oceanfront property within walking distance of attractions like The Stone Pony. The Asbury Hotel is just a block away and offers another trendy accommodation option as well as a rooftop and poolside party destination. Don't forget to check out Asbury Lanes for some bowling and Asbury Park Distilling for a chic booze experience.
When is the last time you took time to visit our nation's capital? It's an Amtrak ride down to D.C., and there's plenty to fill your days like visiting museums and strolling past monuments. But, a highlight has to be the new Conrad Washington DC. The Voltaggio brothers are helming the kitchen there and they also have an exclusive club, The Sakura Club, on the top floor of the property. Delicious food? Top-notch service? Prime location? It has all the makings for a stress-free getaway.
Sure, you could go to Europe for a long weekend. But you'd spend most of your time traveling. That doesn't mean you can't get a European experience with much shorter travel time though. How? Book a trip to Montreal. It's just an 85-minute flight to the French-speaking Canadian city that's home to world-class restaurants offering everything from poutine and bagels to fine French cuisine. Favorites include classics like Gibby's and Schwartz's Deli's as well as new hot spots like Henri at the Hotel Birks. The Four Seasons Hotel Montreal opened this summer in Golden Square Mile, the capital of style and culture. Go shopping along Saint-Catherine Street, the nine-mile strip home to Le Trunkshop, Mua Moi and Holt Renfrew's flagship. Or, relax in the open air by the water at Bota Bota. This spa on the water comes with all of the amenities from a stress-relieving water circuit to more specialized treatments, so you can get the rejuvenation you need.
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