By Maryann Hammers
Everyone complains about the weather, so it’s high time you do something about it. These sunny escapes will warm your heart and, with a military discount, will be kind to your wallet, too.
Bahamas
With the Hero Package at Atlantis on Paradise Island, servicemembers take 10 percent off the best deal. For example, the Winter Special offers up to 45 percent off, plus a resort credit of up to $300 — and you get an additional 10 percent off that deal. The Escape to the Cove Adventure has a savings of up to 50 percent, plus a $300 resort credit — and you get 10 percent off that, too. Call (888) 877-7525 for more information.
Fort Lauderdale, Fla.
B Ocean Hotel offers a year-round “B Saluted” program, with up to 25 percent off the best available rate, plus a complimentary upgrade. Enjoy Atlantic Ocean views from each of the 240 guestrooms at the AAA Four-Diamond hotel. “Best available rates” start at $129 a night, making the military price about $97. For reservations, call (954) 564-1000, or book using promo code “Salute.”
Kauia'i, Hawaii
The Westin Princeville Ocean Resort Villas on the north shore of Kauia’i is 200 feet above the Pacific Ocean. Military rates start at $243 a night for a studio villa (the regular rack rate starts at a whopping $775 a night, so this is quite a discount). Use promotion code MIL. Call (808) 827-8700 to learn more.
Kosrae
Photo courtesy of Kosrae Village Resort.
Often compared to Hawaii in the 1950s, the Micronesian island of Kosrae is halfway between Gaum and Hawaii. Fewer than 7,000 people live on the lush, laid-back island, which has just one main road and boasts spectacular diving in clear 80-degree water, pristine reefs, great hiking, and interesting cultural activities. Kosrae Village Resort, a traditional dive/eco resort with oceanfront thatched cottages, offers a 20-percent discount to active duty and retired servicemembers. (Call 691-370-3483 to learn more.) Kosrae Nautilus Resort, a 16-room resort with a private beach, offers 15 percent off rooms, diving, and meals. (Call 691-370-3567 for more information.) To book, contact hotels directly (not through a travel agent).
San Diego
Kona Kai Resort and Marina sits on the tip of Shelter Island with marina and bay views and newly renovated guest rooms. The $139 military rate includes complimentary breakfast and parking. Call (619) 221-8000 to learn more.
St. Croix
Is there a foodie in your life? Villa des Great Chefs offers servicemembers a 10-percent discount for currently serving troops on its three-bedroom, three-bathroom private villa. (Rates regularly start at $3,465 a week.) The home has a spectacular gourmet kitchen, a fully stocked bar, plus a display of dinner plates signed by famous chefs. Also enjoy a free dinner for two and cocktail at Duggan’s Reef Restaurant, owned by Frank Duggan, a Vietnam veteran and Green Beret. Call (800) 495-9961 for information.
St. Thomas
If your vacation plans bring you to St. Thomas (or if you are stopping on the island during a cruise), check out St. Thomas Adventure Excursions. Owner “Island Mike” offers military discounts of 30 percent off kayaking, snorkeling, and hiking adventures (regularly $95 — your price, $65). Take 20 percent off the self-guided bike tour (regularly priced at $25; you pay $20). Or enjoy a beach day, including transportation to and from the beach, floating mats, beach chairs, snorkel gear, kayaks, and beach toys. Water, soft drinks, and rum are provided, and lunch is served. (Regularly priced at $89, you pay $60). Call (340) 201-6069 for details.