For most Americans, 2012 New Years Eve plans are probably going to get confirmed, oh, say sometime midday on Dec. 31st. However, if you suddenly have the inclination to lock something in now, but want to keep it simple without getting too crazy, traveling too far, or spending too much, then read on. In this article I am going to lay down the groundwork for some available NYE hotel specials that you can still party it up at in a major city near you. This season, I am purposefully avoiding anything involving air travel. Airlines have significantly cut down the number of flights that normally are available between the few weeks before Christmas and the week following New Years. Because of that, fares have skyrocketed between 30-50% of what they were at this time last year. So let’s keep it simple and focus on taking a night or two off this New Years somewhere close, but still cool
BOSTON – HYATT HARBORSIDE (www.harborside.hyatt.com)
Hyatt Harborside
Boston definitely has it going on and especially at the relatively new Hyatt Harborside. Right downtown and near the water, this property is close to everything happening this holiday season. Special NYE rates start at $199.00 per night as long as you jump on it now and book by Dec. 25th.
NEW YORK CITY – WELLINGTON HOTEL (www.wellingtonhotel.com)
New York City - Wellington Hotel
Located near the Theatre District, Times Square, and a stone’s throw from Central Park, staying in Manhattan can still be done without breaking the bank. The only downside is that you need to book a minimum of three nights to take part in their NYE promotion that prices at just over $366.00 per night. But keep in mind the rate does include complimentary internet access, local shopping discounts, and a full American breakfast for two each day of your stay.
NEW YORK CITY – MANDARIN ORIENTAL (www.mandarinoriental.com/newyork)
New York City - Mandarin Oriental
If money is not an issue, then check out the Mandarin’s NYE special that requires a two night minimum stay starting at a breathtaking $2,725.00 a night. But the perks are pretty sweet as this deal includes two tickets to their exclusive black-tie NYE Gala in the Mandarin Ballroom on the 36th floor, daily American breakfast for two, valet parking, and a late 4 p.m. check-out based on availability. Keep in mind, just scoring a pair of tickets to the Gala alone will set you back a cool $1,500.00 if bought separately.
ATLANTA – GRAND HYATT BUCKHEAD (www.grandatlanta.hyatt.com)
Atlanta Grand Hyatt Buckhead
Want to experience Atlanta’s legendary Southern hospitality this New Years? Then look no further than the Grand Hyatt nestled in the up-scale and trendy neighborhood of Buckhead. Normal rates hover around $349.00 per night, but this NYE one can take advantage of their promotional $209.00 a night deals that includes a late check-out.
MIAMI / SOUTH BEACH – COURTYARD BY MARRIOTT (www.marriott.com)
Miami - Courtyard by Marriott
New Years on South Beach is quite the party zone as most ocean front properties are guaranteed a full-house during the holiday season. It took a bit of digging to find any deals, but this Courtyard smack dab in the center and on Washington Avenue offers up a $379.00 nightly rate for NYE. Nothing too splashy like its famous neighbor hotels, this nonetheless comfortable spot offers breakfast for two, champagne, and party favors.
DESTIN, FL – HILTON SANDESTIN RESORT & SPA (www.hilton.com)
Destin, FL Hilton Sandestin Resort & Spa
Want the warmth and sands of Florida, but want to avoid the mayhem of Miami? Then consider the Hilton Sandestin up on the northwest corner of the state. This all suite property is perfect for families, couples, or groups wanting to get away. Suites for NYE price at $498.00, but include tickets for two to their 27th Annual NYE Gala that offers a dinner buffet, live entertainment, party favors, and a souvenir photo. If you wish to stay longer, Gala guests are offered a rate of $159.00 for any additional consecutive nights.
HOUSTON – HYATT REGENCY (www.houstonregency.hyatt.com)
Hyatt Regency Houston Hotel
Located in the heart of downtown Houston, the Hyatt Regency is close to businesses, entertainment, and shopping. For their holiday special of $299.00, couples are given a room for the night, access to Houston’s largest NYE party, and 8 drink tickets to get bring in 2012 properly.
ST. LOUIS – MILLENNIUM HOTEL (www.millenniumhotels.com)
St. Louis Millennium Hotel
The Millennium is centrally located in downtown St. Louis and along the banks of the grand Mississippi. If this New Years finds you in the shadow of the Gateway Arch, then spend the night here, and for a good cause. All proceeds from their party ticket sales goes straight to the Salvation Army. Couples can take advantage of the promo rate of $297.00 that will include their room, gourmet cuisine, an open bar and their non-stop dance party.
CHICAGO – THE DRAKE (www.thedrakehotel.com)
Chicago, The Drake
Since the 1920’s, the historic Drake Hotel has been a landmark in the city of Chicago. Within easy access to everything downtown, The Drake is currently promoting their “Chicago Scene NYE??? package. Based on double occupancy, the rate of $539.00 includes two (general admission) tickets to the Chicago Scene holiday party (www.chicago-scene.com) and requires all guests to be 21 years or older. Do it right and get blown away this year when partying in the Windy City!
SAN FRANCISCO – THE FAIRMONT (www.fairmont.com/sanfrancisco)
The Fairmont Hotel
A permanent fixture in downtown San Francisco, the Fairmont is ideally situated next to the only spot in the city where each of the cable car lines meet. If this random factoid won’t get you going, then the luxurious digs at this historic 591 guestroom palace will definitely do the trick. At about $329.00 for NYE, take advantage of this promo that offers overnight accommodations, a bottle of champagne, breakfast for two, and 25% off the San Francisco Symphony’s NYE Masquerade Ball (normally $80.00 each).
SAN DIEGO – RANCHO BERNARDO INN (www.ranchobernardoinn.com)
San Diego - Rancho Bernardo Inn
Just minutes from San Diego, the Rancho Bernardo Inn is an elegant escape that offers a little bit of something for everyone. If you and your special someone desire something a bit more intimate and less chaotic this New Years, then get ready to fork over their nightly holiday special of $499.00. Aside from luxury accommodations, this rate includes dinner for two at El Bizcocho, a champagne toast, party favors, live music and a New Year’s Day brunch for two.
LAS VEGAS (www.lasvegas.com, www.vegas.com & www.visitlasvegas.com)
It does not need to be NYE for there to be a party going down on the Vegas Strip. Deals, specials, discounts, and the like are constantly available depending on when, where, and how much. So check-out the above sites if Nevada is your destination and sneak a peak at some of the following celebrity parties going down this NYE: 1. The Cosmopolitan (The Chelsea) = Stevie Wonder 2. Paris (Chateau Gardens) = Kourtney Kardashian & Scott Disick 3. The Hardrock Hotel & Casino (The Joint) = Drake 4. Encore at Wynn (Surrender Nightclub) = will.i.am
Of all the cities mentioned, Los Angeles was one of the biggies that oddly enough really did not have any hotel stay packages available for New Years. Regardless, keeping it Cali-style is still doable by running to San Diego, Palm Springs, and San Francisco. But wherever this NYE finds you, take advantage of what is out there and keep a ‘close’ eye on what is nearby. Be safe and see you all in 2012!
Been a trip reporting…
TIP OF THE DAY: Make your holiday plans now before it’s too late, and too expensive!!!