Like most people, you’re likely watching your wallet more carefully these days and a big trip may not be on your list for this year. But getting away doesn’t need to be a big affair to an exotic locale. Sometimes the best trips are close to home, especially when they maximize your time off and minimize your impact on the environment; by choosing a leisurely car or train ride over a flight, you save on airfare and lessen your carbon footprint (especially by taking it slow to save on fuel). Many hotels today are offering recession-friendly packages, so be sure to inquire. Here’s my round-up of eight great destinations within four hours of select major cities in the United States and Europe, each ideal for a quick getaway with that perfect mix of charm, beauty, and unique experiences to make it a truly memorable trip.
#1 Ojai, California
Often referred to as Shangri-La, this laid-back Southern Californian city is my favorite getaway from the urban sprawl that is Los Angeles. My best friend Alison, a film producer in L.A., loves making the 1.5 hour drive to this oasis for quality time outdoors and pampering at the Ojai Valley Inn and Spa; Tip: try to book a room with gorgeous views of the Topa Topa Mountains (rates from $400). The verdant valley rarely has a down day with its sunny Mediterranean climate; the town has an artsy, active feel with great al fresco dining and cozy wine bars. Full of Spanish Mission architecture, the atmospheric village is perfect for a romantic retreat-couples will love the seven-room Lavender Inn, which also houses a culinary school (rates from $115) and Ojai is also ideal for a girls’ weekend away filled with yoga, art classes, golf, tennis, and spa relaxation. 2009 Seasonal Highlights: Farmers’ Market, Sundays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.; The 109th Annual Ojai Valley Tennis Tournament, April 23 to 26: Musical Festival, June 11 to 14: Wine Festival, June 14; Ojai-Ventura International Film Festival, November 5 to 8.
#2 Rhinebeck, Hudson Valley, New York
Country charm meets urbane sophistication in this Hudson Valley hamlet, two-hours north of Manhattan. The village is a less congested, more low-key alternative to the Hamptons; friends of mine frequent it for a relaxing (and romantic!) escape from the city. With a wealth of antique shops and historic sites, Rhinebeck is known as an antique lovers’ mecca, but it also attracts foodies who can take classes and dine at the nearby Culinary Institute of America. Of the many local diversions, tops on my list are hiking, wine tasting, and tours of the Vanderbilt Mansion and the Home of Franklin D. Roosevelt. There’s an abundance of quaint spots to stay, but I’ve narrowed them down to three of my favorites: The Beekman Arms, a large inn downtown, open since 1766 (rates from $115); The Olde Rhinebeck Inn, an 18th-century farmhouse with just four rooms (rates from $195); and The Rhinecliff, a newly renovated hotel with nine chic rooms overlooking the Hudson River (note that it’s next to the train tracks; rates from $180). Tip: Art fans should stop by the Dia: Beacon museum on the drive back to the city. 2009 Seasonal Highlights: Farmer’s Market, Thursdays from 3-7pm and Sundays from 10 a.m. 2 p.m., May 1 through Thanksgiving; Hudson Valley Wine and Food Fest, September 12 and 13; Fall foliage viewing, October/November; Crafts at Rhinebeck Fall Festival, October 3 and 4.
