Southwest Airlines has a 3 day sale

Go to SouthWest.com and type in your city to find out if you can find a good fare but here is a sample - From Austin:

• To Albuquerque for as low as $129 one-way
• To Amarillo for as low as $94 one-way
• To Birmingham for as low as $147 one-way
• To Burbank for as low as $164 one-way
• To Chicago for as low as $141 one-way

Available only on Southwest.com or swabiz.com. 14-day advance purchase required. Purchase by January 27, 2011, and travel through May 21, 2011. Blackout Dates do apply: February 17, February 21, and February 26and travel is valid every day except Fridays & Sundays

Now that Continental has moved to Chicago, I found that it is always cheaper to fly Southwest to Chicago from Houston ($240 round trip) Bags fly free on LUV. The service is the same now that CO does not serve food anymore. Elite upgrades are more difficult to get due to CO selling extra leg-room.

Fake ice at the Westin is better than the real stuff

After suffering through the snow in Europe, I managed to escape to a warm countryside retreat.

I adore the grand manner of doing things in Texas. The Westin has a fake-ice rink where you can skate without getting a red, frozen nose, because there is no real ice involved. I was able to tan at the landscaped pool, next to the ice rink, with a serene view of the rolling hills. They really do coddle you at the Westin La Cantera Resort, San Antonio. Colorful Mexican blankets are draped over the patio chairs and if you still think that the 75 degree (25C) weather is cool, they have outdoor heaters and a fire pit to enjoy a peaceful cocktail at sunset. This is a splendid way to end the day after a pampering visit to the Castle Rock Health Club & Spa or 36 holes of golf. Children have fun at the Westin Kids Club or at Six Flags Park, located just down the road from the resort by complimentary shuttle bus.
There is no internet access at the Club Lounge, but I was able to use my iPad at the Starbucks and in the Grand Lobby. In-room high speed internet access is free for SPG Platinum members, though not at the business center.
You can still book a room this weekend, including two 45-minute skate sessions with skate rentals, for stays through January 8, 2011 at rates from $219. Mention rate plan FROST when making your reservation. This Rink is temporary but you can find several real, permanent ice rinks at shopping malls throughout Texas.