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Planning a Last-Minute Escape? Shop These 13 Hotel Picks for Under $200

Planning a Last-Minute Escape? Shop These 13 Hotel Picks for Under $200

Like everything else in life, having money makes travel easier.

But that doesn’t mean you need to break the bank with each trip—that’s even true for holiday travel.

Though notoriously pricey thanks to the sheer volume of travelers, you can plan affordable trips no matter the time of year—at least in terms of hotels. While airfare is difficult to save on, that’s not the case with hotels.

With new booking platforms like HotelTonight sliding into the mainstream, there are dozens of hospitality brands offering exclusive savings worth up to 18% on the platform.

What does that mean for your holiday travel plans? You can find fantastic lodging for under $200 a night, letting you escape to some of the most popular winter destinations without forking over thousands for a two-night stay.

Just beware: HotelTonight runs on the philosophy of getting last-minute savings, which means two things for travelers. First, you need to be ready to book a room in the next few days. Second, these deals don’t last.

Budget-friendly hotels for under $200: East Coast

AWOL Stowe

Last-minute hotel picks for under $200: The South

Hotel Peter & Paul

Budget-friendly hotels for under $200: Midwest

21c Museum Hotel

Last-minute hotel picks for under $200: West Coast

Hotel Bijou


Christmas Unleashed: Best Holiday Rentals in the US’s Top Christmas Town

Leavenworth is arguably the US’s most picturesque Christmas town.

In fact, you might have heard of this Bavarian-style village (located in central Washington State) thanks to its winter charm. Back in the 1960s, a unique and passionate civic movement saw Leavenworth’s downtown drag transformed into an Alps-style village scene.

From its architecture to its looming mountains, it’s easy to see why thousands upon thousands of Americans schedule a visit every year.

That’s especially true when Christmas lights are lit and festivities take off around town.

Whether you’re looking for a last-minute Christmas rental for this year (run, run, Rudolf!), you’re looking to make a short list for next year, or you’re keeping an eye out for potential January escapes, here are your top choices for holiday rentals in Leavenworth.

Best holiday rentals in Leavenworth, Washington

Best holiday rentals in Leavenworth, Washington

Close to town: Ridge View Manor

Airbnb

Though it’s only a twenty-minute walk from downtown Leavenworth, you’ll still have plenty of space to roam and soak up the views. This professionally managed Airbnb is located on two acres of private, landscaped land.

The communal spaces are large and comfortable. Plus, the home has two bedrooms, making this ideal for a small group. My favorite part? The outdoor jacuzzi that’s perfect for soaking up those winter sky views.

Book this stay

Best views: The Overlook

Airbnb

Gorgeous, modern, and removed from the rest of the town to offer a mountain view, I can’t get enough of The Overlook. Though it’s pricey thanks to its ultra-lux design and feel, it’s one of those Airbnbs that I think is well worth the price.

Remember—Leavenworth isn’t just a Christmas hotspot thanks to its Alpine architecture and number of Christmas festivities. It’s also surrounded by the gorgeous Wenatchee Mountains of the Cascade Range.

What better way to experience the magic than at a home that was listed in Architectural Digest in April 2022?

Book this stay

Great for couples: Studio with a View

Airbnb

Once again, Leavenworth delivers on semi-remote rentals with views that are still close enough to town for you to walk. This studio has a massive porch that showcases the mountains—and it’s west-facing, meaning you get to soak up every single sunset with a loved one.

Located right on the edge of town, this spot gives you the best of both worlds. I also really like the layout and design—it’s the type of studio that I could see myself taking an extended remote-work vacation.

Book a stay

Perfect for the whole family: Leavenworth Field House

Airbnb

This classical home has everything your family could need during a Christmas trip to Leavenworth. In terms of interior, you’ve got four bedrooms that sleep eight—plus family-friendly features like a game room and private backyard.

Oh, and a jacuzzi for any adults who need to unwind after a long day. The common spaces are beautifully appointed and suitably large for families; best of all, the decor is both chic and bright.

While design isn’t usually the first thing families are worried about, it’s worth mentioning that the Leavenworth Field House looks professionally decorated.

Book a stay

Remote getaway: River Chalet

Airbnb

I think the title tells you everything you need to know. Just outside of downtown Leavenworth, this two-story rental lets you soak up views of the mountain and the Wenatchee River.

The home is designed to showcase these views, with plenty of river-facing windows. The back porch is also massive. Though you probably won’t spend too much time outside during a winter visit (and especially not down by the river), those views are drool-worthy no matter the time of year.

Get back into nature at the River Chalet—without leaving Leavenworth totally behind.

Book a stay

Pet-friendly pick: Wild West Lodging

Airbnb

Want to bring Fido with you on your Leavenworth Christmas escape? This Wild West Lodging is a simple three-bedroom stay with plenty of private land for your dog to run. (Assuming they’re okay with snow, of course.)

This rental has also been shouted out by families thanks to its open layout and range of family-friendly features—so feel free to bring the kids, too!

Book a stay

Tips for Remote Workers: Best International Cities for Winter Escapes

The perks of remote work are almost endless.

In fact, the only drawback I can think of is that I pay for a co-working space, and it’s often full of people on calls. (Loud, annoying calls.) Aside from that, I have almost total freedom as a freelancer to build my schedule, work where I like, and even explore the world while I do.

I’ve logged hours at airports, on trains, while in town for weddings, and much, much more.

The best part? Digital nomads and remote workers have an ever-expanding list of options when it comes to traveling and working. In Europe, for example, almost a dozen countries recently rolled out brand-new and inclusive digital nomad visa programs.

But Europe is one of the priciest places a digital nomad or remote worker can wander. And many of my friends here in Barcelona set their sights on more exotic destinations when they’re scheduling a three-week work trip.

Want to take a look at some of the best international winter escapes for all your remote working needs? I’ve got a great list of top locations thanks to a data-driven study by Eskimoz, a research and marketing firm that’s worked with global brands like Sandro.

After stacking up data like average winter temperatures, the number of coworking spaces in a city, and other factors like safety, these are the best spots to hunker down for winter while working remotely around the world.

Best cities for remote workers & digital nomads

  • For first-timers: Dubai
  • For cultural explorers: Mumbai
  • For workers who need solid Wi-Fi: Taipei
  • For language exchange: Buenos Aires
  • For gorgeous surroundings: Rio de Janeiro
  • For budget-conscious workers: Bangkok

Best cities for a winter escape

For first-timers: Dubai

Dubai (Getty)

Don’t have much experience traveling or working abroad? It’s straight to Dubai for you!

While this might seem like a stretch given Americans usually have little exposure to the United Arab Emirates, I promise that the luxurious, suburb-style city will feel immediately familiar. The city is clean, safe, and well-organized.

From your Wi-Fi connection to the average hotel room, you can expect a simple and satisfying travel experience. Dubai is also known for its high level of service and friendliness, meaning that you’ll start to feel comfortable in no time—even if you still need to learn the basics of Arabic culture.

Check out these rentals and hotels in Dubai.

For cultural explorers: Mumbai

India Gate, Mumbai (Getty)

On the opposite end of the spectrum from Dubai, we have Mumbai. I’m suggesting Mumbai with a massive grain of salt.

If you head to India on a remote work trip, you best be interested in culture—and willing to schedule your work around immersion.

Mumbai won’t give you a choice. From power outages to tummy bugs, you need to plan for interruptions and obstacles. That being said, you’ll be treated to an experience unlike any other in the world—from the foods you sample to the music you hear to the fashion you wear.

But it won’t be a soft landing or smooth sailing like what you saw in Eat, Pray, Love, so be ready for a transformative experience.

Check out these rentals and hotels in Mumbai.

For workers who need reliable Wi-Fi: Taipei

Taipei (Getty)

Taipei is fast-paced but mindful, traditional and yet cutting-edge, and a few other contradictions. The small island is also easy to explore—and layered with lush jungles in the center, in case you didn’t know.

That being said, I recommend this city for any remote workers who need reliable Wi-Fi. Given Taipei’s focus on modernity, it’s very well connected in terms of internet connection with averages of around 260 Mbps according to the Eskimoz study.

Its coworking spaces are varied and professional, and its safety index is also one of the highest on the list. Just be ready for the crowds.

Check out these rentals and hotels in Taipei.

For language exchange: Buenos Aires

Buenos Aires (Getty)

Some remote workers and digital nomads have specific goals when they set off to a new country. If you’re hoping to develop your language skills this winter, then I suggest heading to Buenos Aires (or Rio de Janeiro, if Portuguese is your focus).

Aside from providing you a good chance to learn Spanish, the Argentinian capital is also known for its great weather, affordability, and cool factor.

Though I haven’t been there, many of my friends are from Buenos Aires—and they’re trendy, independent thinkers that just about anyone would love to have a beer with. I’m confident any remote workers could find their ‘tribe’ in Buenos Aires pretty quickly, especially when it comes to language exchanges.

Plus, you’ll be there during summer, letting you double down on the sunshine.

Check out these rentals and hotels in Buenos Aires.

For gorgeous surroundings: Rio de Janeiro

Copacabana Beach in Rio (Getty)

0Want some jungle with your winter escape? What about beaches? And great music? And sexy people? I’m sure you’re already picturing Sugar Loaf Mountain in your head, or Christ the Redeemer.

With its vibrant energy and playful atmosphere, it’s impossible not to recommend Rio de Janeiro for remote workers.

While the city isn’t the safest, the weather is almost perfect throughout the Northern Hemisphere’s winter months. With a growing number of co-working spaces, you’ll have options in terms of finding that home-away-from-home office.

Check out these rentals and hotels in Rio.

For budget-conscious workers: Bangkok

Whether you’re looking for medical care or a next-level party, you can find it in Bangkok… for a reasonable price, nonetheless. Just beware that Bangkok’s affordability comes with a very high-energy atmosphere that’s on par with Mumbai.

That being said, you can find more than a few budget-friendly oases to enjoy in the city. In fact, in terms of coworking spaces, Bangkok comes in second on this list—that gives you a whopping 164 coworking spaces to choose from as you settle in. 

Check out these rentals and hotels in Bangkok.

A Pilot Spills the Truth About Not Putting Your Phone in Airplane Mode

I’ll never forget the first time I noticed someone choose not to put their smartphone in airplane mode.

It happened a year ago as I flew home. The three-hour flight was fully booked and I was in the middle seat. I put my phone in Airplane Mode then turned on a podcast. While I listened, my eyes wandered.

I realized the person next to me hadn’t put their phone into Airplane Mode; I watched them flip through a few browser and social media apps well until the plane was ready to take off… and then continued to do so as we ascended.

I kept glancing over and wondering when they’d turn on Airplane Mode. The passenger looked to be my age and comfortable on the flight—which meant there was little excuse about not knowing the rules of air travel.

I waited in vain. The plane landed, we deboarded, and life went on.

It wasn’t until I heard from a pilot a few weeks ago that I realized what actually happens when passengers refuse to put their smartphones in Airplane Mode.

Will the plane go down? No. Will you be making the pilot’s life harder while they’re in charge of a metal tube flying through the stratosphere? Definitely.

Here’s what happens when you don’t turn on Airplane Mode—according to a pilot

In a friendly PSA, a pilot recently took to social media to uncover what actually happens when smartphones aren’t properly managed during flights.

Like I just mentioned, there’s no risk to flight security… but smartphones can still cause headaches and undue stress.

“It does have the potential to mess with the headsets,” said a pilot who posted a mini tell-all on his Instagram account. (Reposted here by NBC Chicago.) According to the pilot, it only takes three or four passengers not turning on Airplane Mode on a flight of up to 100 to create interference.

That’s because smartphones that aren’t turned into Airplane Mode will send out radio waves to the nearest towers as they seek out a signal. Some of those radio waves can interfere with the pilots’ headsets.

The result? According to the pilot, that can cause a really annoying buzz in the headset—sort of like the sound of a mosquito buzzing in your ear. He goes on, “It’s not the end of the world, but it’s definitely pretty annoying when you’re trying to copy down instructions.” Fair enough.

How does onboard wi-fi work by comparison?

Here’s the mystifying issue with passengers attempting to use their smartphones during a flight: Most airlines now offer in-flight Wi-Fi.

There’s no reason to worry about your cell signal when you can easily log on to an actual Wi-Fi connection—assuming you’re okay paying for it, of course.

So, what’s the difference here—especially considering Wi-Fi runs on radio waves just like smartphone signals? It’s about infrastructure.

Planes rely on both satellites and ground towers for communication, and these bad boys run at top speed thanks to specialized high-frequency technology. Your smartphone, by contrast, is much less efficient—and its clunky old radio waves are prone to congestion and interference.

In other words, when it comes to handling radio waves and communicating between satellites and cell towers, the average airplane is a Ferrari… and your smartphone is more like a dusty old Camry.

Hand-built & Wind-powered: My Favorite Cruise Concept in the World

I’m a travel writer who has traveled the world.

My most memorable travel moments came when I wandered far off the beaten path and ran head-first into lifestyles beyond the scope of my lived experience.

These moments have shaped who I am as a writer, traveler, and human.

Given many of these ‘a-ha moments’ happened accidentally, it can be hard to pin down and package a truly transformational trip. Transformation, as often as it’s sought by wellness-motivated travelers, can’t be produced willy-nilly.

Or that’s what I thought until I heard about Celestia.

I’d call Celestia a cruise company, but its single vessel is wind-powered and hand-built according to UNESCO-protected traditional practices from Indonesia. And its cruises are bespoke, designed to offer diving, gourmet meals, and cultural tours

Also, it’s ultra-lux.

Do I have your attention?

Welcome to the craziest travel experience I’ve ever heard of – one that I have no problem guaranteeing will change how you see yourself, this world, and our shared heritage.

Celestia Luxury Phinis: a look at the company, the mission, the message

The Celestia cruising Indonesian coastlines (Courtesy of Celestia)

Celestia is a bespoke cruise company based in Bali and serving Indonesian waters. Again, I want to address the term ‘cruise’ because this is really a private sailing experience.

The vessels stay close to the shore and use wind power to navigate the thousands of islands dotting the Indonesian Archipelago.

They have one vessel named Celestia, where the company draws its names—and she’s gorgeous. Technically speaking, Celestia is a 45-meter Phinisi yacht.

A Phinisi yacht is a traditional sailing boat native to Indonesia; as a maritime culture, they’re a celebration and preservation of Indonesian heritage.

In fact, UNESCO recognized the Phinisi (or Pinisi) yacht as a Masterpiece of Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity back in 2017. This designation refers specifically to the design and construction of the yachts, which are a core part of the country’s history and modern identity.

Guests on board aren’t just learning a little bit about culture—they’re living it day in, day out.

3 travel itineraries coming in 2025

As outlined up top, Celestia is a luxury, no-expenses-spared cruise company. They stick to Indonesia’s highly sought-after Coral Triangle, known for its beautiful reefs (home to up to 75% of all coral species live here) and calm waters.

In 2025, Celestia is offering three cruises that guests can join.

These cruises are available starting on January 1, 2025—but you can book your stay now. All journeys have flexible booking dates, allowing travelers to customize their itineraries and take full advantage of the slow travel movement.

You’ll have a choice between these programs.

A Culinary Journey of Indonesia with Chef Wayan Kresna Yasa

Duration: 4 nights / 5 days

Foodies, look no further—this is the Celestia cruise for you. With Indonesia’s favorite, famous celeb chef in the kitchen (that’s Chef Wayan Kresna Yasa), you’ll be able to eat your way across the country.

Not only does the head chef offer cooking demonstrations and tours of local food markets, but you also have the chance to pluck your meal straight from the ocean.

Divers’ Paradise: Komodo National Park

Duration: 4 nights / 5 days

This full-service diving program takes you to one of the wildest parts of the country: Komodo National Park. Cruise director and dive master Jennifer Tan heads the journey, showcasing famous diving sites like The Shotgun, Manta Point, Castle Rock, and more.

Retracing History in the Spice Islands

Duration: 8 nights / 7 days

Want to venture into the past? This cruise takes you around Indonesia’s most famous spice islands, which drew the attention of Dutch and English colonists back in the day.

You even get to visit the island of Pulau Rhun—which the Dutch wanted so badly that they handed Manhattan over to the English back in 1667. Aside from history lessons, guests can expect unrivaled natural beauty.

The big catch?

Here’s where I break your heart. Given the ultra-luxury and highly opulent nature of this hand-built cruise ship and its highly bespoke mission, its cruise programs aren’t cheap.

Actually, they’re exorbitant.

That being said, I have never seen a travel experience quite like this—so I think those price tags are slightly more reasonable when viewed through a lens of novelty, meaning, and sustainability. Also, the prices listed below include tax.

  • A Culinary Journey of Indonesia with Chef Wayan Kresna Yasa costs $60,480
  • Divers’ Paradise: Komodo National Park costs $60,480
  • Retracing History in the Spice Islands costs $105,840

The Most Wholesome NYE Events in the South

It’s hard to find a New Year’s party that’s actually fun for the whole family.

In my experience, the most enjoyable family-friendly events are usually found in places where kids are part of the action. In other words, the more integrated kids are into a community, the more likely you are to find adults and kids having fun in the same places.

I’m from the Midwest where family-friendly events and spaces are the norm. From major holiday parades to small-scale events, some cities go above and beyond to make sure families are having fun and building a sense of city-wide community.

But if we’re talking about pure family-friendly fun, I think the American South comes out ahead of the Midwest—as it does in many hospitality-related fields.

Want to see the proof?

In terms of the US’s most family-friendly and popular New Year’s Eve events, the South comes out far ahead. States like Georgia, Florida, Tennessee, and Texas host some of the country’s most beloved (and largest) family-friendly New Year’s parties.

The best part? Most are also a bash for the grown-ups.

If you’re on the hunt for a wholesome NYE party, here’s where to find them down South. I’ve got picks in big cities and small towns alike.

Overview: where to find family-friendly NYE parties

  • Best small-town pick: Gatlinburg, TN
  • Best family-friendly party: Atlanta, GA
  • Surprise pick: Lost Pines, TX
  • Best kid-centric atmosphere: Winter Haven, FL

Best family-friend NYE parties in the South

Best small town pick: Gatlinburg, TN

The famous Gatlinburg Space Needle hosts a massive free event for anyone and everyone. Kids and adults alike can soak up the live music and other special exhibits.

The night culminates with a ball drop at midnight, which kicks off a city-wide fireworks display. If you’re looking for a private event, head to SkyPark Gatlinburg. You’ll have panoramic city views along with free food and drinks.

Best family-friendly party: Atlanta, GA

Renowned for its massive peach drop and family-friendly, city-wide party, Atlanta’s NYE celebration is one for the books. Each year, Woodruff Park welcomes thousands of locals as they enjoy a carnival-like atmosphere.

There are carnival rides, face painting, tons of food vendors, and—of course—a massive peach drop that takes place at midnight. (It weighs 800 pounds—don’t worry, you won’t miss it.)

Surprise pick: Lost Pines, TX

The Hyatt Regency in Lost Pines, Texas located outside of Austin. Normally, Lost Pines hosts wearied city-slickers who are in search of the healing power of nature, golf, and silence.

But on New Year’s Eve, the Hyatt Regency rolls out a hugely popular party program. Similar to Atlanta’s city-wide party, this event includes a carnival atmosphere, a kid-friendly dance party, and an awesome fireworks show.

(While the hotel hasn’t announced its official NYE plans for 2024, they’re likely going to be similar to last year’s.)

Best kid-centric atmosphere: Winter Haven, FL

Did you know that Orlando is one of the US’s most popular New Year’s Eve destinations? That’s thanks to the city’s number of amusement parks. But between the cities of Tampa and Orlando, you’ll find Winter Haven—home of Florida’s Legoland.

This theme park includes rides, attractions, exhibits, and even meals that are unique to the New Year season. The Kids’ New Year’s Eve event includes an early 8 pm fireworks show—fit with Lego-shaped fireworks, too. There are twinkling lights and unique treats, along with nightly shows in the days leading up to the big night.

Just be sure to buy tickets ahead of time and book accommodation if you’re staying close by—it’s one of the most popular times to visit Legoland.