offManhattan

One looking for a new Getaway—that freeing space in time where responsibility does not exist—might do well to travel ashore to a province in Atlantic Canada called Prince Edward Island. You ask for it—beaches, golf, cuisine, culture, adventure—you got it.

Once a favorite of America’s elite, from FDR to Hollywood starlets, New Brunswick faded from glamorous getaway of the early 20th century to the territory between Québec and Nova Scotia. This obscurity makes its unspoiled wilderness and sleepy fishing villages all the more enticing. From lively fiddle music to delicious seafood, from art galleries to the natural art of its stunning landscape, New Brunswick, Canada living is all about joie de vivre.

In the far reaches of Canada, on the easternmost point in all of North America, some of the nicest people in the world live in candy-colored clapboard houses.

The province of Newfoundland and Labrador is, to say the least, unique. The island of Newfoundland and southeastern Labrador on the mainland of Canada are on Newfoundland Time—90 minutes ahead of eastern time—while the rest of Labrador is on Atlantic time (60 minutes ahead of eastern time). This offbeat nature of the province—the bright and stunning landscape, the friendly locals who hang their laundry to dry in the fresh sea air and welcome anyone and everyone—is just part of what will make the trip one of your most memorable adventures.

By now, the Callery Pear trees are arching their white blossoms over the streets, and coffee cups are clinking back down into saucers on the sidewalks of New York City. You love this town. Still, this is the year you’re going to enjoy spring or the next season in a distinctly different setting.

Perhaps you’re considering an adventurous outing with a non-profit organization?

Since 1901, the Sierra Club has established itself as a trailblazer in responsible travel. Whether you’re interested in preserving a historic mansion in an outer borough, or trekking in Upper Dolpo, Nepal for a month, there are over 300 stellar trips—186 of which are under $1,000—to choose from.

When the warmer winds of March begin to wind their way around the skyscrapers, you know it’s time to spring forth from Manhattan, traveling in the direction of some small charming town surrounded by lots of green space. Margaretville might come to mind. Located in the Catskill Mountains, it’s an easy-to-reach recreational paradise. In two and a half hours by bus, your work woes will have slipped off your shoulders as you step down into a truly pristine place.

Getting the Lay of the Lodge
Margaretville Lodging owns four properties in the Catskills that offer a wide range of accommodations. Looking for a romantic Bed and Breakfast? The Margaretville Mountain Inn is a Queen Anne Victorian style beauty—and listed on the National Register of Historic Places—so you can expect antiques and period décor at this lovingly restored inn. Carol Molnar is the owner, and her exquisite touches are everywhere, from the gourmet breakfast served on fine china to the plush towels in the bathrooms of the individually decorated rooms and suites. The website offers various discounted specials, like room and breakfast for two for $69 mid-week and $99.50 on weekends with a two-night minimum stay. Single weekend night rack rates start at $115.

What: Montreal High Lights Festival 2010

Where: The High Lights event and all affiliated outdoor activities take place in Old Montreal and the Quays of the Old Port; performances and culinary events happen all throughout the city.

When: February 18-28, 2010

Why: We all need a little more light in these dark, dreary days of winter, and no one does light better than the good people of Montreal. This year’s High Lights Festival celebrates Portugal, New Orleans, and the Eastern Townships of Quebec in a festive lineup of culinary and entertainment events to please all the senses.

It is a crisp clear morning in the Catskills. You stand knee-bent at the crest of the slope, pumped with adrenaline and ready to do some carving down the fresh, untrodden snow—but it’s hard to leave the still view. After all, you’re perched atop the second highest peak in the county.

On Saturday, Hunter Mountain marked 50 years to the day since opening what is now one of the top ski destinations in the Northeast. And with a slew of new deals, they’re making sure everyone from ski bunnies to ski bums will be there this winter to jump-start the next 50 years of sweet rides.

What: 56th Annual Québec Winter Carnival

Where: Across two major sites: Place Loto-Québec (located in front of the Québec Parliament) and Place Desjardins (located on the Plains of Abraham)

When: From January 29 to February 14, 2010

Why: Because celebrating the holidays felt more like work than vacation, and this is the second best thing to a European getaway. No other event in the world can compete with this big daddy of all winter carnivals: imagine an ice palace, sleigh rides, outdoor dance parties with hip hop, disco, and Latin music, a snow sculpture competition, and canoe race, all within a charming, historic downtown district.