articles
November 24, 2000
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GREAT GETAWAYS • skiing weekend • few days in the country • theatre weekend • mid-week spa break |
by Barbara Fletcher
Ah, the holidays. If only it could be just chestnuts roasting on an open fire as you warm your feet in a comfortable chair, sipping eggnog, relaxed and happy.
But no -- you need to buy presents for the kids, the neighbours, the paper girl. You have a dozen invitations to office parties, neighbourhood parties, and cocktail get-togethers with friends. And there's all the shopping, and the wrapping, and the cooking.
Face it: this time of year can be terribly stressful. You could really use a short holiday from the holidays.
Whether it's a short skiing weekend, a couple of days in the country, or a midweek spa break, a few days away can make all the difference in the world. And you can find your tranquil destination online.
If you would like a short skiing vacation, GoSki Canada and Skiing in Canada list resorts for many skiing destinations in Canada.
You can also find packages that include outdoor activities as well as resorts at some of Canada's online travel companies. Tripeze features resorts in Alberta, BC, Manitoba, Nova Scotia, Ontario, and Quebec -- for single nights and 3- or 4-day breaks. Or, you can throw together your own custom vacation for the city you want via Travelocity.
Spruce up a night in the city with theatre tickets, a romantic dinner, or some shopping -- but just for you. Or, for a bit of fun, you could always check out a casino.
If a short stint in the country is more your speed, be sure to check out some Canadian Bed & Breakfast directories online. A search for a B&B at BBCanada results in pictures, amenities and facilities listing, and rates.
B&B Info has an impressive search facility for many cities and towns in Canada -- you can even search on distinctive features such as "best scenery" or "best food".
And of course, if you want to truly pamper yourself away from the hub-bub, there are always spa and retreat vacations. A few days of relaxing massage or some quiet time for reflection may be just the antidote to holiday stress.
Retreats Online list a wide variety of retreats -- from weekend getaways to health and wellness retreats. The Spa Canada site features everything from "hot springs resorts, to pampering and relaxing spas, to back-to-nature fitness and experiential retreats."
Doesn't it make you feel better already?