When things get tough, the smart plan getaways

By Richard P. Carpenter, Globe Correspondent  |  October 5, 2008

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.