Irresistible deals

"I have only one word for you,'' I told my friend Claudia. "Tahiti!''

That foray for four to Tahiti more than a decade ago was the result of my reading about too many travel deals. Still today, nearly 95 countries later, I'm beguiled by the idea of a bargain getaway. And even when I can't quite spring for the luxury splurge in some exotic place, I can dream.

Better yet, often the deals are to places close at hand. And this year, the deals are juicier than ever, thanks to the grim economy.

If you've got dimes left in your pocket, here are some tempting ways to spend them. And if not, well, we can always dream.

Florida Keys: Through July 31, KeysCaribbean Luxury Resort Villas & Marinas is offering 25 percent lodgings in Key Largo, Key West and Duck Key. (Regular rates start at $195.)

Amelia Island: Through July 31, guests get half-off the second night at the Addison on Amelia. Stay two nights at the Hampton Inn and get a $50 gas rebate card.

Around the state: VISITFLORIDA.com, the public-private partnership that promotes tourism in Florida, features a list of things you can do for under $5.

And at participating Marriott hotels, book at least 14 days in advance for rates starting at $119 at the Grande Lakes Orlando and Ponte Vedra Beach.

Mexico: The oh-so-chic Aqua Cancun offers a three-night package including airport transfers, daily breakfast for two, one candelit dinner for two and a 25-minute couples massage, from $1,605. Refer to promotion code PROMFB0006.

Asia:  Got miles? Use them before the new award levels kick in (or you have to pay fees, Delta's newest trick.) Then snag a six-night package in Hong Kong and Bangkok including breakfast for $289 per person, double occupancy, or a 10-night escorted tour of Vietnam for $1,239 per person, double. A five-night package to Bali INCLUDING air from Los Angeles is $1,189 per person. From Gate 1 Travel.

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PHOTO: Copyright Jane Wooldridge: Bora Bora, from the famous Tahiti trip.