When things get tough, the smart plan getaways

With campaigns and crises swirling around us, don't you sometimes want to get away from it all? Well, it is easily done, as these far-away trips illustrate:

• A reasonably priced trip to China sponsored by the Exeter (N.H.) Area Chamber of Commerce has sold out, so another has been added. The nine-day, seven-night trip costs $1,899, begins on March 10, and includes transportation to and from Kennedy International Airport, international airfare, stays at four- and five-star hotels, three meals each day, bus tours, English-speaking guides for the extensive sightseeing, admission tickets to attractions, and airport tax. Although the journey is billed as a business and community leaders' trip, everyone is welcome.

  Visit chamberchinatrip.com or call 603-772-2411.

• In Jukkasjärvi, Swedish Lapland, a hotel is built of snow and ice every year. The Icehotel typically opens in early December and closes around mid-April, when it begins to melt. A weeklong program from the Great Canadian Travel Co. includes two nights' accommodations in London with breakfast, round-trip flights from London to Kiruna, Sweden, and round-trip transfers between Kiruna and Jukkasjärvi, just 125 miles from the Arctic Circle. At the Icehotel, three nights' room plus breakfast is included. The cost is $1,989. Departures from London are Jan. 3 and 31, Feb. 7, 14, 17, 21, and 28, and March 7 and 21.

  Visit greatcanadiantravel.com or call 800-661-3830.

• A company with the unusual name of Pedalers Pub & Grille plans three departures for its Journey to Sapa cycling adventure through northeast Vietnam. Departing this Dec. 8, March 9, and Dec. 7, 2009, the 10-day trip includes everything but airfare for $2,250.

  Visit pedalerspubandgrille.com or call 877-998-0008.

• In the shoppers' haven of Milan, the Hotel Principe di Savoia offers an Outlet Package that includes a private car and driver to FoxTown, considered one of the world's best designer outlets, near the Swiss-Italian border. Also included are luxury accommodations, free access to the spa and fitness center, a buffet for two, and complimentary limousine shuttle service to Milan's shopping district. Prices begin at about $800.

  Visit hotelprincipedisavoia.com and click on Special Offers or call 011-39-02-62301.

When not included, hotel taxes, airport fees, and port charges can add significantly to the price of a trip. Most prices quoted are for double occupancy; solo travelers will usually pay more. Offers are subject to availability and there may be blackout dates. Richard P. Carpenter can be reached at carpenter@globe.com.