The military has resort locations in Orlando, Virginia Beach, Germany, Hawaii, and South Korea. The resorts are open to active-duty and retired military, current and retired Department of Defense civilians, reservists, delayed entry recruits and family members.
Each of the resorts feature gourmet restaurants, guest services, pool and fitness centers.
The first resorts were opened in Germany in December 1945. Forces mostly from the 101st Airborne confiscated hotels that were then used for military rest and recreation.
In 1995, the privately owned hotels were returned. A new facility in the Bavarian Alps called the Edelweiss Lodge and Resort opened in 2004.
Rooms are only $147/night compared to $300-plus dollars at the resort located right next door to the Hale Koa. All these resorts offer first-class accommodations at discounted military-only rates.
Here is a brief overview of the five military resorts available for servicemembers:
Cape Henry Inn
Welcome to the family of world-class AFRC Resorts. There is more to this Atlantic beach club than lapping waves and sand castles. With the entertainment options of Virginia Beach in close proximity, pristine beaches, hiking trails, whale watching and seaside dining, guests will find it hard to leave the simple pleasures of beach life.
http://www.capehenryinn.com/
Shades of Green
Located on Walt Disney World Resort in central Florida. Imagine a peaceful wooded setting surrounding 586 oversized guest rooms, cascading waterfalls, lush tropical gardens, spectacular views from private patios and balconies amid stunning sunrises. With diverse dining options, championship golf, plenty of kid’s activities and a premier location on Walt Disney World Resort, Shades of Green has all you are looking for in a totally relaxing vacation destination.
http://www.shadesofgreen.org/
Dragon Hill Lodge
Welcome to the Land of the Morning Calm in Seoul, Korea. Supporting the Yongsan military community, Dragon Hill Lodge has a myriad of services including a first class fitness and health club, restaurants, lounges, and a specialty shopping mall. The hotel is a pleasant escape from the bustle and excitement of downtown Seoul.
http://www.dragonhilllodge.com/
Hale Koa Hotel
Aloha from Waikiki Beach, Honolulu Hawaii and home to the 'House of the Warrior'. Since the grand opening in 1975 along with a major expansion in 1991, the Hale Koa's mission remained unchanged: "To operate a first class hotel and recreation facility at affordable prices for military members and their families." More than 1 million guests make this their vacation paradise yearly.
http://www.halekoa.com/
Edelweiss Lodge and Resort
Forged in rustic woods, stones and other natural elements to complement its environment, the rugged character of Edelweiss Lodge and Resort is in perfect harmony with the comforts provided by its ample conveniences and amenities. Long revered as one of the most desirable destinations in the Bavarian Alps and Germany's premiere winter and summer sports center, the Garmisch-Partenkirchen area is an idyllic location nestled at the foot of sweeping Alpine vistas and home to the Edelweiss Lodge and Resort.
http://www.edelweisslodgeandresort.com/home.html
Check out the websites and you will see these are world-class resorts. Add discounted vacations at these military resorts to the already over stuffed bag of benefits the military has to offer and it almost seems like a dream come true. It all begins by talking with a recruiter. Once you join, you and your family can start to take advantage of all the great benefits the military has to offer.
