The Luxurious Journey

One of my guilty pleasures is the quick last-minute summer trip. Of course I enjoy a BIG trip like our recent journey to the South of France. But there is something so perfectly satisfying about a quick 1 or 2 night getaway.

Last year, I spent a good deal of time researching the perfect spot for our anniversary. I knew I wanted something new to us, under a 3 hour drive, preferably in the Hudson River Valley.  Every place I called had a 3 night minimum on weekends and we really wanted a shorter stay. So I waited until the week of our anniversary and booked the Glenmere Mansion. It was perfect: tranquil, grand, five-star dining, and a beautiful spa.  It was everything we could want for a quick, romantic getaway.

Living in New England, there is no shortage of truly magical destinations to go for a night or two in the summer. Luxury resorts are not plentiful, but there are a few that are perfect for a quick fix.

I recently spent a luxurious 2 days and 1 night at the Miraval Berkshires Resort and Spa. While I can see why it would be ideal to spend a full 3 nights here, one night was just what the doctor ordered! Where else can you get a fantastic massage, get in some cardio drumming and axe throwing, then enjoy some great cocktails and a fabulous meal? I ate well, lazed by the pool, and enjoyed a relaxing spa experience with some good friends.

A day later, circumstances found me needing to be in Rhode Island, so I booked a 36-hour trip at the Ocean House. With its expansive beach, first-class spa, and quiet elegance, this gem may be one of the most special places along the New England coastline.

When planning a quick trip, here are a few tips to make things easier.

Forget the Internet

I can’t tell you how many times I’ve checked online and a hotel’s website shows no availability, but one phone call proves otherwise. Many of the better hotels require a 2 or 3 night minimum stay in the summer. If you absolutely can’t do that, it never hurts to call the hotel directly the week of, or have your luxury travel advisor call their personal contact. More times than not, something will be available.

Be Persistent

If restaurants you want to dine in are booked, ask your travel advisor to see if they can help you with their contact. If you book the hotel directly, try calling the restaurant each day leading up to the trip. Keep checking Resy or Open Table. Things open up, especially at the last minute. If not, I’m a big fan of eating at the bar! We have met some of our favorite vacation friends while dining at the hotel bar.

Be Flexible

On our most recent trip to the Ocean House, we were lucky that they had one suite that could fit 3 people for the one night we needed. Had that not been the case, the Ocean House has 2 sister properties where we could potentially stay. The Weekapaug Inn is a charming property that overlooks both the Atlantic Ocean and “Quonnie” pond. The Watch Hill Inn is a short walk from the Ocean House and offers larger rooms which are a bit more affordable, and bay views complete with stunning sunsets. With a stay at either of these spots, you can still luxuriate in all the amenities the Ocean House had to offer.

Communicate

Let the hotel know what time you will be arriving. An early check-in can enhance that short one day trip exponentially. As soon as you wake up on the morning of your departure, ask for a late check-out.

And of course, check-out time doesn’t mean exit time. Most hotels will let you store your luggage while you continue to enjoy the property. And at the rates hotels are charging this season, it’s worth it to make every minute count.

Simplify

Have a separate vanity or dopp kit packed for travel. It’s one less thing to think about. Fill it with trial-size items if you don’t want 2 sets of what you have at home. For one night, I don’t care if my skin care routine is a little different than usual. Don’t forget to throw in some extra contact lenses and any medications you might need!

Trying to make the most of summer can be both rewarding and exhausting, so be sure to enjoy the fruits of your labor! Whatever you choose to do, I hope you have a fabulous summer!