Look for last-minute deals on Caribbean winter travel

Last year, SmarterTravel.com editors were surprised when good deals for winter Caribbean travel kept cropping up, especially because it was high season. For 2008, it looks like the trend will continue, with numerous providers promoting deals for travel in late January, February, March, and April. Even though it’s late to be booking a tropical winter getaway, you may be able to snag a good price if you act quickly.

I found both Orbitz and Expedia were running sales on Caribbean vacations and resort stays through mid- or late-April. Both deals are good through at least February. Orbitz’ sale includes up to 40 percent off hotel rates and an automatic $75 discount on select air-and-hotel vacations to Puerto Rico, Jamaica, Aruba, and Cancun. Expedia had discounts on all-inclusive vacations in the Bahamas, the Dominican Republic, and Jamaica, with rates for four-night air-and-resort packages starting at $649 per person plus taxes. I also found savings on late-winter Caribbean cruises. Travelocity, for example, has Bahamas cruise rates from $199 per person, and is offering up to $250 off all cruise bookings when you pay with a MasterCard by January 31.

While these deals may expire by the time you read this, new promotions may have started and other providers may have discounts as well. Be sure to check SmarterTravel’s airfare, hotel, and vacation package sections to find the latest deals.

(Editor’s Note: SmarterTravel.com is a member of the TripAdvisor Media Network, an operating company of Expedia, Inc. Expedia, Inc. also owns Expedia.com.)

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