Groupon Getaways with Expedia offers first deals

July 13, 2011 | Online Travel

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Groupon Getaways with Expedia handpicks desirable destinations and the most interesting things to do, offering them typically around 50 percent off retail rates found at other online travel sites. Groupon Getaways' deals will be mostly for hotels initially, but it plans to offer airline tickets and rental cars in the coming weeks.

Expedia and Groupon announced today the first live deals on Groupon Getaways with Expedia.

Groupon Getaways with Expedia handpicks desirable destinations and the most interesting things to do, offering them at unbeatable prices – typically around 50 percent off retail rates found at other online travel sites. The site will offer a mix of opportunities, from 4- and 5-star properties and activities at premiere locations to nearby weekend packages showcasing hidden gems in a subscriber’s backyard.

The offers available at launch will be followed by additional premium travel deals to be offered through Groupon Getaways with Expedia. The variety of deals offered this week to subscribers include:

- Las Vegas: $144 One-Night Weekend Stay at The Palms Casino Resort (http://www.palms.com) with Direct Access Pass, Gaming Credit and Breakfast Buffet for Two ($299 Value)

- Dallas: $139 One-Night Stay in Premier King Room at The Stoneleigh Hotel & Spa (http://www.stoneleighhotel.com) with Lavish Breakfast for Two and 25% Discount at Spa (up to $269 Value)

- Bangkok: $2,086 Five-Night Stay for Six Guests in Three Bedroom Hangover Suite at The Tower Club at Lebua (http://www.lebua.com/en/tower-club/luxury-accommodation/hangover-suite-3-bedroom/) with Daily 60-Minute Aromatherapy Massage for Each Guest ($11,875 Value)

The deals follow the proven Groupon model, in which customers have a limited time to buy a discount voucher good for future travel. Once a customer purchases a voucher, there’s no pressure to book immediately as they can redeem anytime within the expiration period. This allows consumers to take a simple step toward a memorable vacation, building the trip around that deal when circumstances allow.

“Through this partnership, we’re aiming to give the world’s travelers a way to capitalize on travel dreams that might otherwise go unrealized,” said Scott Durchslag, President, Expedia Worldwide. “Travel can be really complex, and this service is simple. Sign up, and our Getaway deals will arrive in your in box. When you see one you like, buy it, then take the trip on your timeline.”

“This site combines Expedia’s relationships and Groupon’s expertise in delivering unbeatable value to curate unforgettable experiences,” said Aaron Cooper, Senior Vice President of New Business, Groupon. “Groupon Getaways celebrates the fun and adventure of travel. We’ll introduce subscribers to interesting places at prices they won’t expect.”

In the coming weeks, those signed up for Groupon Getaways with Expedia can expect to see deals delivered weekly to their inbox and available for purchase in limited quantities until they sell out.

Related Link: Groupon Getaways with Expedia

Read also "Are travel deals from Groupon-Expedia the best you can find?" at USA TODAY