Planning a 60th Birthday Getaway
by Paula Haim
(Long Island, NY)
Question: Hello! My name is Paula and I'm trying to plan a surprise trip for my step-mom's 60th birthday!! She wants really good lobster and I'm sure she'd love to be able to either sit on a beach or walk around a town. There would be at LEAST 6 of us staying together and I'm not sure what's the most cost efficient option nor where to go for a great birthday! HELP!
Dee's Reply: Hi Paula - Planning a surprise vacation for your step-mom's birthday ... wow! I'd say that puts you at the head of the line for "Daughter of the Year" award!!
I'm sure you feel like you have a daunting task ahead of you, pulling the vacation plans together. Not to worry, though. I'll do my best to help in any way I can.
Cost-Efficient Lodging
When it comes to lodging, I have no doubt that a rental house or condo will give you the best bang for your vacation buck.
To comfortably accommodate 6 or more people, you're probably looking for at least 3 bedrooms.
Even in the most reasonably priced hotel or motel, 3 rooms will run you anywhere from $450 to $600 per night (in season), just for a place to sleep.
For that kind of money, a rental home or condo will give you lots more space and a better choice of location.
Which Town to Choose
Mom would like good lobster and a nice beach to sit on? That's easy! There's fresh lobster in abundance here, and we're surrounded by wonderful beaches. Whichever town you ultimately choose, you'll have no trouble finding scrumptious seafood and spectacular beaches.
When it comes to a walk-around town, that's a little more challenging.
In many towns on Cape Cod, the shops, restaurants, museums, attractions, etc., are spread around throughout the town rather than concentrated in a traditional "downtown" area.
If a walkable town center is a high priority for you, put these towns on your list:
SandwichFalmouthBarnstable (especially the village of
Hyannis)
ChathamOrleansProvincetownMore Information
I imagine you have more questions, and I have more ideas and suggestions for you that page space doesn't allow me to cover here. If you'll send me your email address
in a private message, I'll get back to you with more info!
Best Regards,
Dee