McLaurie, Thanks for the tips. I'm based in Philly.

I looked into Nantucket a few days ago, but the hotel prices were outrageous for the week we want to go and most of them I liked were sold out as well. Of course I only did some very brief research (looked through the most popular hotels on tripadvisor).

Right now considering Vegas or Scottsdale, as I found really cheap deals on travelzoo for both. Only problem is the heat -- but we will see!

shortcake,
Did I understand you to say that you can drive to New England? I would think that $1500 for 2 people could give you plenty of options in NE, I'd have no problem finding some nice options (especially if you can travel midweek) for that budget, you could easily do a nice 5 day vacation?

But shortcake has said that she can go to New England anytime and would like to go somewhere new.

We are also in the Philly area. We once took a driving vacation down Skyline Drive, over to Charlottesvlle, then Williamsburg and finally onto Annapolis. We stayed in B&B's (some with pools) and had a very nice time although Williamsburg is unbelievably hot in August. It was another vacation where we did things early and late in the day and just hung out by the pool in mid-day.

I can think of nothing worse in August than Las Vegas. I don't care how cheap it is. They couldn't pay me to do that. Well, full disclosure, it wouldn't be on the top of my list for other times, but especially August. If you don't like heat, don't do this.

I honestly think the problem now is psychological. You were set to do New England. Then thought you would be able to go someplace exotic with the gift and found out that's not possible. So either continue with original plans and treat the gift as a way to upgrade your trip (or save some money) or pick some place you'd really like to go and do the same, use the gift as a supplement. What about a week in the Hamptons or Montauk if you want a beach vacation?

Yes...my mind went a bit wild with the gift money, thinking we could go somewhere really fantastic (not that New England isn't great, but you know what I mean). After the London thing fell through, I was definitely bummed.

I guess i just have to do some more thorough research and price a few places, ideally I'd like to have this done by the time the weekend is over!

Well shortcake, do let us know what you decide. Really, it is a fun problem to have.

I'd look for another deal to Europe. Just add your own cash that you would have spent on New England.

Also, you could drive and use the money to stay at a really nice resort in Newport for 3 or 4 nights.

I'd also check Bermuda or Quebec. British or French atmosphere, easy flight, both very romantic!

You have a wonderful problem to solve...
Have fun! :)

Long Island... The Hamptons and Montauk! beautiful Beaches, shopping, great dining, nightlife and relaxation.....

And the winner is...Vegas!!!! yay!

Thanks for everyone's helpful advice :)

Here's a neat little site that may help you make up your mind. You just plug in the temps you'd like and it comes up with suggestions.
Have fun!

Well, it would have been a neat little site if I'd remembered to "paste"
http://www.weatherbase.com/weather/v...ust&refer=

Vegas? Not even for free, but have a great time, I hear that some people love it.

Vegas?!? Not even for free, but have a great time, I hear that some people love it.

Have you considered The Outer Banks?

oops just noticed you chose Vegas, GREAT CHOICE, so much to do.

Lol Nina. I've been once before and loooved it, and bf has never been so it will be a lot of fun :)