Antigua relies on British tourists, but since they will be home watching the World Cup, hotels are dropping rates to lure tourists to the beach.
THE BUY Tourism takes a hit during big soccer tournaments as many Europeans stay home to watch - and that can mean lower prices in destinations that depend on their business. Antigua's Jolly Beach Resort and Spa is offering all-inclusive rates starting at $94 ($89 U.S.) per person, per night during the upcoming FIFA World Cup.
THE SAVINGS Fifty per cent off normal rates.
THE CATCH It is available only from June 11 through July 11, the duration of the tournament.
WHY IT'S WORTH IT The Jolly Beach Games Room will be showing all the games for those who are soccer fans and there's a mile-long beach, two pools, tennis, kayaks and windsurfing for those who aren't.
BOOK IT Through a travel agent or visit www.jollybeachresort.com.
FIFA RESULTS RATES AT DESIGN HOTELS
THE BUY Design Hotels is offering discounts based on how countries perform at the FIFA World Cup in South Africa.
THE SAVINGS The World Cup Rate could be as much as 50 per cent off if you are booked in a hotel in a country that makes the final.
THE CATCH The discount starts at 10 per cent off the best available rate, and will increase if the country progresses to a new round. When the team is eliminated so is the World Cup Rate. The rate schedule: Group Stage - 10 per cent off June 11 to 25; Round of 16 - 20 per cent off June 26 to July 1; Quarter-finals - 30 per cent off July 2 to 5; Semi-finals - 40 per cent off July 6 to 10; Final: 50 per cent off July 11 to 13.
WHY IT'S WORTH IT Discounts are available in 26 participating countries including soccer powerhouses Germany, France, Italy, Portugal, Spain and England, as well as long shots such as Mexico and Switzerland.
BOOK IT www.DesignHotels.com/WorldCup2010.
$19 TO ORLANDO (PLUS TAXES AND FEES)
THE BUY Sunwing has put Orlando on sale with air-only return flights from Toronto for $19.
THE SAVINGS Up to $170 compared with flights in July.
THE CATCH Taxes and fees of $219 are not included and the $19 fare is available for departures May 30, June 6, 13 and 20.
WHY IT'S WORTH IT With school holidays yet to begin, it is a good time to visit Central Florida's many attractions including the Wizarding World of Harry Potter opening in June at Universal Studios.
BOOK IT Visit www.sunwing.ca.
IT'S NOT JUST THE DEALS THAT ARE HOT
THE BUY Scottsdale is home to some of the top resorts in the U.S. with prices to match during the peak winter season but when summer comes to the Arizona desert the rate goes way down. The Fairmont Scottsdale is offering a "Sip, Savor and Splash" package from $169 per room per night including a $50 food credit.
THE SAVINGS A typical winter rate is $399.
THE CATCH Arizona is stinking hot in the summer - average highs hover around 40 C. The package is available through Labour Day, Sept. 6.
WHY IT'S WORTH IT The AAA five-diamond resort features a top-ranked spa, two 18-hole golf courses and five swimming pools to help you beat the heat.
BOOK IT Call 480-585-4848 or visit www.fairmont.com/scottsdale.
Special to The Globe and Mail