California coast: Inside historic La Playa Carmel hotel

One holiday ritual gets short shrift around this time of year: relaxation. La Playa Carmel in Carmel, Calif., makes it easy to get away with a 30% discount on rooms until Christmas. Take a look inside and then think about booking a room.

The deal: The Holiday-by-the-Sea package starts at $195 a night. It includes a welcome cocktail, a free Champagne breakfast buffet and free pick-up of holiday shopping at local stores in Carmel. Use the code "Prohol" when making a reservation.

When: The deal is good for stays through Dec. 26.

Tested: I found the $195 rate available for a room with a garden or village view on Dec. 1 and 2, 30% lower than the best available rate.

Contact: La Playa Carmel, Camino Real at Eighth Avenue, Carmel; (800) 582-8900
-- Mary Forgione

November 27, 2012