Escaping a couple of weeks of winter weather sounds great, but Canadians without school-aged children to contend with, should consider extended-stay vacationing and get a real break from winter -- without the cost and responsibility of owning a second property.

Extended stay is also an excellent way to try out a different lifestyle, a new location or life in a highrise before you commit to buying a new home and making an expensive move. For instance, if you have always lived in a suburban house, would you feel comfortable in a waterfront highrise condominium? "Extended" or "long-stay" usually means 3 to 8 weeks or more in the travel business.

British Columbia's Laurel Point Inn, a resort-style hotel located on Victoria's picturesque inner harbour, is a wonderful example of the luxurious economy of extended stay vacationing. This independently-owned landmark property offers wonderful views from every room. Situated on its own peninsula, there are numerous waterside walks to enjoy.