No, I am not suggesting that you hit the street in an attempt to spend an evening among adults.:) Actually, I’m not even suggesting you hit the road.

It’s a painful reality in our house that leaving said house is generally virtually impossible in a “date night” sort of way. Going out to dinner, that is doable. But, heading out for an overnight parent getaway – ha!

Then, Ken got all brilliant and romantic on me for my birthday this Summer. He snuck around all day, even the tiny person kept the secret magically, and after dinner that night we drove the whopping 1/2km down Cliffe Avenue and ended up in the King Suite at the new Holiday Inn Express.

From the whole “Express” name you wouldn’t think fancy. But, wow, was I ever impressed.

The King Suite had a huge bed with a 2-person jacuzzi tub in the room, a lovely view, a kitchenette and a lovely front room with a TV so that the late sleeper (Ken) could log some extra Zs when the early sleeper (me) is ready for the day by 6:30 a.m.

I particularly loved the finishes in the rooms including seriously comfy sheets, pillows and blankets (so hard to come by). The other great part was running down to the indoor pool in the morning for a long, leisurely swim and a complimentary breakfast.

Mastering the “we’ll be down the street”parent getaway, Cliffe Avenue doubles up in the goodness with the Old House Village Hotel and Spa at the corners of Cliffe and 17th. We live about four blocks from there and I happily concede that there are times when booking some time at Oh Spa is awesome. But, having to leave is a bit of a bummer.

Booking a night at the Old House Village is a really sweet indulgence, with cozy rooms and smart amenities as some rooms have kitchenettes, suite options and more.

The fact that you can land in a big, cushy bed after an afternoon at the spa, well, major bonus.

These two spots get the OBE Certified Parent Getaway seal of approval.

Now that’s what I call a night off:)