Napa Valley is a vacation destination with wineries, memorable cuisine, cultural attractions, innovative spas and distinctive resorts. While the Valley has long drawn visitors from around the world, there is a perception that the destination is expensive. Not necessarily so, says the staff at Silverado Resort, which has been accommodating guests since 1968.
"Lillian Africano reports on the tips offered by the Silverado Resort that allow you to have your cake and eat it."
The resort's staff offered these suggestions for trimming the costs of a Napa Valley vacation:
Travel midweek. Monday-through-Thursday rates for Silverado Resort's one- , two- and three-bedroom condominiums can be as much as 25 percent lower than weekend rates.

Share a two- or three-bedroom suite with friends or family. The more people sharing, the better the per-person pricing. Just ask. Take advantage of the Silverado Resort's free concierge service by calling in advance of a visit and inquiring about special events and discounts in greater Napa Valley. Or simply meet with the concierge upon arrival. The Silverado concierge also has coupons good for free wine tastings and other offers.

Travel off-season. Napa Valley is a year-round destination, with moderate weather and activities during every season. While, the majority of visitors travel during the summer months, Silverado recommends off-season travel such as February, when the valley's mustard is in bloom and the popular Napa Valley Mustard Festival is staged. During the festival, chefs from around the Valley show off their culinary creativity by developing cuisine that showcases the festival's namesake mustard. Room rates are significantly lower in the winter than in the summer.

Book a package. Silverado Resort offers a variety of themed packages. The best deal is the "Golfer's Dream Package," with savings of more than 50 percent off regular rates. Offered Nov. 28, 2008 through Feb. 28, 2009, it includes one night in a suite and a round of golf for two. It is priced at $199 per night midweek and $289 on the weekends. Other packages include "Spa Girl," "Family Extended Stay" and "Golf and Spa."

Dine in at least once. The resort's fully equipped kitchens make it easy to prepare a meal, and it can be significantly cheaper to make a meal or two than to eat all meals in a restaurant.

Visit wineries that are open by appointment only. Though seemingly exclusive, these wineries often offer the most personalized and thorough winery experience, and they are never crowded. Silverado Resort's concierge can make appointments for resort guests.

Search online for deals and suggestions. For example,
www.napavintners.com lists family-friendly wineries, including those with picnic areas. Another site, www.silveradotrail.com, provides special offers and tastings for wineries on the Silverado Trail, Napa Valley's "Road Less Traveled." Neighbors to the Silverado Resort, the Silverado Trail wineries also feature special events such as the biannual Silver Pass weekend, with special discounts and events.

For more information or reservations, call 707-257-0200 or 800-532-0500 or visit www.silveradoresort.com.