More recession travel deals by Winnie Yeung.

365 Free Hotel Nights!
It seems as though the tourism industry has gone crazy in their attempts to drum up business in the wake of the recession. The latest deal comes from the Hyatt hotel group, which has just launched a worldwide competition offering three lucky winners 365 nights’ stay each in any of their hotels around the world. To enter, log onto www.thebigwelcome.com before May 13 and submit an article on how exactly you would spend those 365 nights to turn the offer into an unforgettable experience. The Hyatt will pick three winners from North America, Europe and Asia. Make sure your article shows originality, creativity and of course, your vast knowledge and appreciation of the Hyatt brand. To supplement your essay, you’re welcome to attach video, pictures and drawings, and submit your entry in either English, Korean or Japanese. Time to bust open that Word file.
 
New York, New York
A ticket to New York, even in low season, is usually at least $6,000. But you can get flights and accomodation for less than that with Continental Airlines’ new package. It includes return flights and a night’s stay at a hotel of your choice for just $5,890 per person, so you can splash out the money you’ve saved on Broadway instead. Offer valid until Apr 30 (departure before Jun 11). Booking and details at  www.co-holidays.com.

Two-For-One Europe
Fancy a double-city Europe trip? Cathay Pacific Holidays has a new package to London, with return flights and three nights’ stay from $4,899 per person. Then, add $1,050 per person to make a stopover in Rome or Paris on your way back, flying British Airways. Then, get a hotel room for just $360 per person at either of the two cities. Travel period from May 1 to Aug 28. Book at www.cxholidays.com.

The Other Japan
There are some great deals to Japan right now, but if you’re sick of Tokyo, how about Okinawa? The souhern prefecture of Japan is beautiful, with its blue skies and white sand, and is a nice change of pace from the city. Be sure to try the special Okinawa cuisine (they’re famous for bitter melon, sea grapes and thier own version of sake awamori). Wing On Travel has a three-night package to Okinawa starting at $3,999 per person, with return flights on Hong Kong Express or China Airlines, and three rooms in the city of Naha. Travel period until Jun 28. Book at 2921-6288.