Winter Rate Cuts (Hotels Follow Fed's Lead!)

There's no plan for a billion-dollar bailout plan to help those jonesing to travel, but luxury hotels ARE following the Fed's example by cutting their rates. They're also offering unprecedented bang for the buck, perfect for wallet watchers in the mood for a winter getaway.

For example, Manhattan's chic Hotel Gansevoort offers a "Don't Break the Buck" package priced from $365/night through March. Included at the downtown hot spot are superior accommodations, breakfast for two on the house, hot toddies--and if you wish--a dip in the heated rooftop pool, plus your choice of an in-room movie and a Hotel Gansevoort music CD as a parting gift.

Following a recent $20 million revamp, The Equinox Resort & Spa (seen above) in Manchester Village, Vermont, invites guests to head north for wintertime fun (think off-road Land Rover driving lessons in the snow!) and bargain shopping. Through April, this pet-friendly Luxury Collection Resort offers an "Economic Antidote" shopping package priced from just $149/night during the week and $199 on weekends. The deal includes accommodations, use of heated indoor pool/fitness center, a $50 gift card to spend at the nearby Manchester Designer Outlets plus an additional vouchers offering up to $750 in savings at the high-end outlets (including Polo, Theory, Giorgio Armani, Escada, Furla, J. Crew, Tumi and Coach).

Those who want to ski and spa during their value-added winter stay can do so in snowy Manchester, New Hampshire, at The Manor on Golden Pond, a charming Small Luxury Hotel. In addition to three nights’ accommodation with all meals included, a two-day ski pass and private ski lessons, guests will enjoy a gourmet ski picnic on the slopes followed by a warm-up of afternoon tea (or chilled champagne if they prefer) PLUS their choice of a relaxing spa treatment (valued up to $110). The three-night Ski & Spa package is priced from $2,340 for two through the end of March.

For more info on booking these and other exclusive winter packages, contact TheEliteTravelGal.