Sherman's Travel

People travel for myriad reasons: to see new places, to conduct business, to escape wacky family members. More often than not, people venture out into the world for a respite from their everyday lives. A break from the daily grind is always welcome, and most vacationers are happy to escape to a realm of peace and tranquility.

Of course, in today’s tech landscape, where many of us have our smartphones fused to the palms of our hands, that can be nigh impossible. Even in the most remote corners of the Earth, you can still hear the faint buzzes, bells, and whistles of your or your neighbors’ electronic devices. We’re all guilty of giving in to technology in times when we should log off – checking our work email on vacation, or wondering which Instagram filter will get your sweet landscape photo the most likes. For those of us who need the internet pried from our cold, dead fingers, some hotels are taking a more forceful route.

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Those in need of a quick, romantic getaway can head to picturesque Providence, Rhode Island for a night to relax in quiet comfort. The 4-star Renaissance Downtown Hotel’s romance package starts at just $159 per night and includes a bottle of champagne and chocolate covered strawberries delivered to the room upon arrival, and breakfast for two at the Temple Restaurant. Guests won’t feel rushed the next day, instead they can lounge around until the 2 p.m. late check-out time or take advantage of the hotel’s convenient downtown location with the Providence Place Mall and historic sites just steps away. Travel is valid through September 4, 2011.

THE VALUE: Room rates are regularly $209 per night and the breakfast and champagne are a $50 value!

THE CATCH: Available Thursday through Sunday.

THE DETAILS: To book the romance package, visit www.marriott.com using promo code ROM.

WE’VE GOT MORE: Use our Travel Search price comparison tool to find great rates on flights to Providence, Rhode Island.

Get a load of true southern charm in the Carolinas for less! Four Marriott Hotels in both North and South Carolina (Charleston, Columbia, Raleigh, and Greensboro) have dropped their prices by over a third for summer travel – that means rates from $69/night! The Renaissance Charleston is hard to resist. Guests staying here can wander the surrounding colonial streets or attend the annual arts Spoleto Festival (May 27 to June 12). The historic hotel is situated in the city’s oldest quarter and comes with newly renovated rooms and a rooftop pool. Plus, local beaches are just minutes away. The lowest Marriott deal rates start at $69/night for weekend stays, and $99/night for weekday overnights (prices don’t include breakfast). Offer is valid through July 25 and must be booked by midnight on April 15. Call 800-228-9290 use code ADP or book online at www.marriott.com.

For more trip-planning info, see our Charleston Travel Guide or use our Travel Search price comparison tool to find budget-friendly flights.