By Maryann Hammers
Itchin’ to get out of Dodge? Way out of Dodge? Well, dust off your passports. We’ve found some far-flung destinations offering great deals for servicemembers.
Mt. Kilimanjaro, Tanzania
Whoa Travel coordinates high-adventure group travel for women, plus custom and private adventures for men and women. Servicemembers and anyone over age 65 get a 20-percent discount on upcoming treks through Mt. Kilimanjaro. “Climbing to the top of the highest mountain in Africa is a once in a lifetime journey that will change the way you look at the world and yourself forever,” says Allison Fleece, founder of Whoa Travel. The trip includes seven days of hiking, plus two nights at a hotel. The cost is $3,200, minus $640 military/senior discount, making your price $2,560. “That includes everything except airfare, gear apparel, vaccines, and visas,” Fleece says. Servicemembers must provide a copy of their military ID and use promo Code MilitaryWHOA when booking online. Seniors will need to provide an ID showing date of birth and use promo code BucketList. Email Whoa Travel at info@whoatravel.com or call (347) 875-0338.
Bristol, England
Known for its up-and-coming restaurant, music, nightlife, and art scene — plus countless festivals, bridges, and theatres — Bristol is Britain’s must-see. “If you really want to know exactly where Britain’s at right now, then Bristol is hard to beat,” says the Lonely Planet website. Sound good? Then this will entice you: The Bristol Hotel, on the waterfront, offers active and past-serving U.S. servicemembers a daily rate of £90.00 (about $153 as of this writing) through the end of December 2014 for one person or £100 (about $170) for a double room, double occupancy. The price includes breakfast, free parking, free gym access, and free WiFi. This price represents a savings of up to £80 ($136). To get this price, you’ll need to book directly through the hotel’s website, and you’ll also need to provide proof of military service.
'Round the World
Where in the world do you want to go? Whether it’s Canada or the Caribbean, or Africa, Australia, the Alps or Asia, the Middle East or South America, there’s a deal for current, former, or retired members of the uniformed services (and their adult dependents). More than 4,000 resorts in more than 100 countries offer weeklong condo-style accommodations for $369 (or just $349 if you book online). You’ll need to register on the website (it’s free). Accommodations are available on a space-available basis, so you might need to travel off-season or on short notice to get that price. Learn more here. Call (800) 724-9988.