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Summer months may have the one-up on winter travel for warmer weather, but there’s one thing about the “cold shoulder season” that they can’t beat: cheaper hotel rates. Shoulder seasons, aka, the off-peak travel times in between popular tourism periods, are the perfect time to take advantage of seriously low hotel rates. And if you really want to save your pennies, now’s the time do so; New data from Hotels.com indicates the “cold shoulder season” directly before the holiday travel rush and after all festivities are the best times to book a budget-friendly getaway.
Per the Hotels.com analysis, the best times to currently book are between December 15-20 and January 3-8, when certain rooms are selling for $150 or below. From $95 per night for a 4-star, luxury resort in Lima, Peru to art deco hotels in Japan for just $105 per night, hotels around the globe are taking cold shoulder season very seriously, offering travelers a luxury getaway without the luxury price tag.
It’s never too late to plan a last-minute getaway or to starting prioritizing your 2023 PTO. Check out the cheapest hotel rates in December and January from the report that are practically beckoning you to pack your bags.
Where to go in December
Sonesta Hotel El Olivar - Lima, Peru — $95.00
Rate: $95/night
Now that travel is back in full swing, consider booking a trip to Lima, Peru. For $95 per night, this 4-star hotel boasts free breakfast, parking, a gym, a pool, and prime location next to highly-rated restaurants. Take a dip in the refreshing outdoor pool before heading to the rooftop terrace with a cocktail to watch the sunrise. Yes, please.
CitizenM - Los Angeles, CA — $120.00
Rate:$120/night
Staying in Los Angeles can cost a pretty penny, but you can score a good rate at CitizenM located right in downtown. It offers a breakfast buffet, a 24-hour fitness center, and a 24-hour business center, if you’re still getting some work done. It’s the perfect hotel for folks on business or vacay.
Histórico Central - Mexico City, Mexico — $141.00
Rate: $141/night
If the tropical side of Mexico isn’t your thing, book a stay at Histórico Central. Located in the city center of Mexico City, the Histórico Central is just steps away from Madero Street and the famous art museum Palacio de Bellas Artes. Each room comes air-conditioned and features complimentary bathrobes. Plus, take advantage of the complimentary breakfast buffet and coffee (yum.)
Schwan Locke - Munich, Germany — $125.00
Rate: $125/night
If you book this Munich hotel now, you can still make it in time for the holiday markets. This stylish stay features mid-century furnishings and decor that any art lover or historian will appreciate. Most rooms are decked with a balcony for fresh air and electric-colored couches for a burst of color. The rooms are clean, service is lovely, and the hotel is just minutes away from the city center.
Casa Wilson Inn - San Juan, Puerto Rico — $141.00
Rate: $141/night
Craving a beachy getaway? The Condado Hotel calls. This inn is fully-loaded with amenities, including free breakfast, pool access, computer stations, barbecue grills, and so much more. It’s also nice that the beach is nearby.
Where to go in January
Hyatt Centric - Denver — $125.00
Rate: $125/night
If you’re planning to visit Denver don’t skip on a chance to stay at the Hyatt Centric. The hotel has a rooftop terrace with gorgeous views, a 24-hour fitness center, and a coffee shop—so you can enjoy your morning cup of Joe.
Station House Inn - Lake Tahoe, CA — $139.00
Rate: $139/night
Plot twist: you don’t need to drop a ton of cash on a ski trip. The Station House Inn is three miles away from Heavenly Ski Resort with a ski shuttle that makes getting there a breeze. When you come back after a day on the slopes, slip into a spa tub or the seasonal outdoor pool and give your muscles a rest.
Selina Catahoula - New Orleans, LA — $124.00
Rate: $124/night
Located in New Orleans business district, Selina Catahoula is just steps away from Canal and Bourbon street, where there’s plenty shopping, eating, and drinking to be done. Bring back some beignets and take in the sights from the rooftop terrace for a nightcap.
Aliz Hotel - New York, NY — $115.00
Rate: $115/night
Making your way to the Big Apple? The Aliz Hotel is a must-stay. This 4-star hotel is located right in Times Square, giving you access to all the action. When you’re done exploring, come back to a sound-proof room (it is the city that never sleeps, after all) before enjoying a cooked-to-order breakfast in the morning. Alexa, play New York, New York.
Hotel Musse Ginza Meitetsu - Tokyo, Japan — $105.00
Rate: $105/night
Hotel Musse is conveniently located near the Tokyo Imperial Palace and Tokyo Tower, making it a great hotel to stay at if location is your priority. The Art Deco hotel has all the amenities you’d want in a stay away from home, including a Japanese fusion restaurant that serves breakfast every morning until 10 AM, so you can fuel before roaming around the city.
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