With the holidays approaching, all thoughts seem to surround gift-giving, parties, and possible travel. No need to worry. Wire took the time to identify a few quick, cost-effective and fabulous getaways. Trust us, we’ve spotlighted a few great choices for the couple wanting to pack up and enjoy some recession-friendly fun, without breaking the bank.

For those of us living in the city of sun and fun it’s hard to imagine leaving our much-envied Miami climate to go elsewhere during the holidays. Due to our amazing weather, we are able to wear tank tops pretty much 355 days out of the year. We can all attest to seeing (or wearing) boots, coats, turtlenecks and leather once the temperature hits the “lows” in the 60s. Those who live elsewhere would most likely wear a simple sweater. Northerners, many times chuckle at Miami residents. But we can’t help it! To us lovers of the sun, it’s practically snowing!

For those wanting to remain here in the 305 area code there are a few “oldies” yet “goodies” that we have identified that will suit your holiday getaway. We have also found some hot new spots you might want to check out.

So let’s hit our backyard first.

Miami, Florida

People travel from all over the globe to enjoy our picturesque landscape, beaches, cultural diversity and gorgeous cityscape. So without being biased there are some great places to go to in South Florida. Let’s talk about a few.
The Marco Polo Beach Resort- is a wonderful choice. If you grew up in Miami during the late 80s and early 90s this was one of those popular summer vacation spots flooded with locals who wanted to hit the beach. Located in Sunny Isles, the resort built in 1967 was sold in 1999 and fully renovated.
The result is what one could call “affordable elegance.” One gets the “beach-experience” without the fast-paced hustle and bustle of South Beach.

The oceanfront resort looks very “Coral Gables.” For those who live here, you surely understand what this means. A gorgeous façade, painted with shades of terracotta and white, the resort has lovely balconies and burgundy awnings bearing a resemblance to the style the city of Coral Gables has become known for. Simple Miami Beach elegance yet boasting a Miami dose of flair, the hotel looks upscale but not overly done.
The 3-Star, 3-Diamond Miami Beach resort is situated directly on the ocean, and if you want to get a work out in during your mini-getaway, they have a state-of-the-art ocean view fitness center. If you need to pick up a quick holiday present, you are minutes from Bal Harbour shops and Aventura Mall. The hotel is just minutes away from the best attractions that the local area has to offer.

Living in Miami, one rarely makes the time to enjoy a lot of these great spots including some of the city’s best restaurants, lounges and nightclubs. Without a curfew and just a cab ride away, couples can see their city through different eyes. So let’s talk about the amenities.

The Marco Polo Beach Resort has 250 spacious guest rooms with views. Most of the rooms at the resort offer full or partial views of the breathtaking Atlantic Ocean. The décor is a perfect blend of classic and modern- combined seamlessly. Rooms with kitchens or balconies are available as well, so no need to leave the room if you don’t want to, hint-hint. If you need to update your Face book or send some tweets, all rooms all have wireless. No need to be concerned with the beds. Whether queen or king-sized, they are extremely comfortable. You will forget you are not at home.

Depending on how our Miami weather treats us before we hit 2010, you might still be able to lay out, at least for some poolside cocktails if not a suntan. The pool area is another great feature of this resort. Being oceanfront, you have direct access to the ocean unlike a lot of other resorts. From cozy beach chairs to a great poolside bar for frozen drinks and bites, this place can be your little oasis away from home this season. Celebrate an anniversary, catch up on some alone-time or ring in the new year- without going broke!

Oh, and about the price tag, if you book your mini “vacay” before January 1st, the rates will bring a smile to your face. Rooms are still available for less than a hundred bucks. For more information or reservations: http://www.marcopolobeachresort.com/