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If you’re looking to take your next trip up a notch while keeping costs down, winter 2010 is the perfect time to go. With the global economy going south the last few years, the hardest hit sector in the travel industry has been the luxury market. Rates for 4- and 5-star hotels reached historic lows in 2009, and it’s continuing throughout 2010 and even to 2011.

Now’s the time to take advantage of amazingly low rates on that upscale trip you’ve been dreaming of. These deals aren’t here to stay, so time is of the essence.

Here are the top five luxury winter destinations for 2010:

1. Las Vegas, USA

The luxury hotel scene in Las Vegas has been booming since the 90s, and the last few years are no exception. Five-star hotels continue to open despite the economic downturn, and it’s you travelers who benefit—the larger the number of rooms to fill, the bigger the competition to drop rates to get your bookings. Hotels like the Venetian and Aria continue to offer unbelievable deals, and with the 3,000-room Cosmopolitan Hotel opening its doors on New Year’s Day 2011, it will only get better.

2. Cancun and the Riviera Maya, Mexico

The best time to visit Mexico is before December 23 and after January 15, when it’s off-peak season and rates are at their lowest. Premium, all-inclusive resorts are opening up in the Riviera Maya area—that means you get your food, drinks (including top-shelf liquor), entertainment, activities, and even oceanview upgrades included in your rate. You can often find 5-star beachfront resorts for under $200, and 4-star resorts can get down to under $100.

3. Europe (Paris, Madrid, and more)

Big-city vacations are on sale all over the world, including in Europe. It’s a great place to visit any time of the year, and winter is ideal if you want the lowest prices on luxury hotels and fewer crowds to deal with. Most cities can be enjoyed comfortably during this slower season, including Paris and Madrid, since the weather isn’t extreme, and there’s plenty to do indoors and out.

4. California, USA

Go west all the way to California this winter. If you do, you’ll find huge discounts on top luxury hotels up and down the coast. You can save as much as 50% on an upscale hotel experience, especially over the holidays when business travel is light and hotels need to lower rates to fill rooms. Spend the holidays stress-free in a relaxing, fancy hotel for much less than you’d expect.

5. Dominican Republic, Caribbean

This may be news to you, but the Dominican Republic is actually a high-end resort hotspot in the Caribbean. This Latin island offers an extremely good value on 4- and 5-star resorts. Before the word gets out, get in on amazing luxury stays that are still priced low enough for most budgets. Go all out with an all-inclusive stay, which includes all your meals, drinks, and activities.

You can find deals to these destinations and more on Travel Ticker

Photo by Venetianlasvegas

Hotel Deals in Madrid

Best Western Hotel Atlántico, Madrid
Stay 2 nights and save 10% on a double/twin room or stay 3 nights and save 15% on a double room!

Eco Hotel Alcalá Suites, Madrid
The 4-star Eco Hotel Alcalá Suites is situated very close to Alcalá and the Ciudad Lineal metro station, allowing an easy and quick access to the Madrid Barajas Airport. Stay 4 nights and save 20% on a suite!

Check out more Hot Deals for Madrid!