Unwrap Holiday "Dead Zone" Deals Early

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Holiday travel can be expensive, but it's still possible to pick up some great deals for those so-called "dead zone" weeks. NY1's Valarie D'Elia filed the following report.

When it comes to the holidays, Santa always has his secrets. Here's two that have to do with travel.

The holiday season gets a bad rap as a taxing time to take off for vacation. But it doesn’t have to be, as there are two pockets of opportunity that every smart traveler should know about. They are called "dead zones," the dry travel periods between Thanksgiving and Christmas and just after New Year’s. Look for hotels to try to woo guests with lower rates and other perks.

For instance, in New York City, the value driven Wolcott Hotel near the Empire State Building is offering starting rates from $150 from December 16th through the 26th and $120 a night in January. This includes continental breakfast and access to the fitness center.

For a quick holiday getaway an hour or so outside the city, get in the spirit with the "December Delight" package at the legendary Mohonk Mountain House. This Victorian castle offers rates starting at $178 per person, per night, based on double occupancy. Available midweek from November 26th through December 20th, this special includes breakfast buffet and dinner along with afternoon tea and cookies.

If your idea of a Christmas tree is a swaying palm, get away to the tropics with low rates on a high end island with a visit to Anguilla’s Anacaona Boutique Hotel. Rates start at $347.50 per person for three nights’ stay and $465 per person for four nights’ stay, based on double occupancy. Single rates are also available.

Stays include a full Caribbean breakfast for two and a welcome "rum punch" cocktail. The deal is good for travel between now and December 21st.

As is common practice in the travel industry, Travel With Val often receives complimentary travel or reduced "media" rates at hotels, resorts and attractions, including those that may be featured in these reports. Such consideration is not taken in exchange for any express or implied promise or understanding of any nature, particularly regarding the content of these reports. These reports only feature travel providers personally recommended by Valarie D’Elia in the exercise of her independent editorial judgment, and do not represent the endorsement of Time Warner Cable or any third party.